Dexa scan

[QLisa]

I was diagnosed with Celiac in June at age 33. (Positive Biopsy and blood test) My vitamin D levels were low despite supplementation (have been taking 2000 iu for years as part of my multi) so my doctor ordered a bone density scan. 
 

Since I’m pre-menopausal, my results include BMD and Z-scores only. No t-scores at my age. 
 

My doctor didn’t go into a lot of depth with me regarding my results, just “your bones are less dense than expected at your age.  Supplement.”
 

Everything I read online makes it sound like the T-score number is what they use to cut off between osteopenia and osteoporosis. But I don’t have a t-score. 

Regardless, my spine numbers don’t look good. I already have scoliosis so I’m pretty concerned. I breastfed my two children a total of 4 years, and I’m thinking if I had undiagnosed celiac that whole time surely my body was pulling calcium from my bones for them. I’ve only been done breastfeeding for like a month or two—do you think weaning + adding additional vitamin d3, calcium, magnesium supplements can help level me out? Of course add in more exercise…I used to do dance fitness regularly until I got pregnant with my youngest. Definitely fallen off the badwagon there. 

I’m feeling pretty concerned about my future/aging as I’m facing these conditions so young. 
 

PA SPINE: z-score -2.4

left femoral neck z-score -.6

total left hip z-score -1.2

right femoral neck z-score -.6

total right hip z-score -1.5
 

 

[RMJ]

Celiac plus breastfeeding could certainly explain your DexaScan results. You’re young enough that vitamin D, calcium and weight-bearing exercise should help to build your bones back up.

[trents]

QLisa, I think you need to give it more time. Your celiac diagnosis was less than three months ago. It takes years to rebuild bone density but at your age you should be able to do it. Don't over do it with calcium supplements as they will increase gut PH and reduce absorption of things like iron and calcium. Drink something acidic (OJ, tomato juice, cranberry juice) when you take calcium and iron supplements (f you are on iron) or take a little vitamin C along with the calcium. Weight bearing exercise will also be important.