Want to Increase Bone Density? Here’s What a Stanford-Trained Orthopedic Surgeon Wants You to Know

Updated: January 20, 2025

Dr. Doug Lucas

Dr. Doug Lucas explains why most calcium supplements fail, plus how to rebuild bone density naturally

What if everything you’ve been told about calcium supplements is wrong?

That’s exactly what Dr. Doug Lucas—a renowned orthopedic surgeon—discovered when he set out to find the best ways to support his patients’ bone health.

With double board certifications in orthopedic surgery and anti-aging medicine, Dr. Doug specializes in correcting osteoporosis and helping patients live longer and healthier lives.

A Stanford-trained surgeon, he spent nearly a decade in orthopedic surgery before shifting gears to pursue advanced training in anti-aging, regenerative medicine, and metabolic health. Today, he leads Optimal Human Health MD (OHH), a nationwide telehealth practice focused exclusively on bone health through the lens of optimization.

Dr. Doug has a clear mission: to educate the world that osteoporosis is reversible and to provide patients with solutions that work.

This relentless pursuit of evidence-based care led him to AlgaeCal, the ONLY supplement in the world that’s clinically supported to increase bone density. For Dr. Doug, AlgaeCal wasn’t just another supplement—it was a game-changer.“AlgaeCal hands down has more evidence to support it than any other supplement in the bone health space,” Dr. Doug says.

Stanford-Trained Surgeon Reveals Why AlgaeCal Is His Top Pick for Stronger Bones

In this must-see interview, Dr. Doug Lucas—an osteoporosis expert and Stanford-trained surgeon—explains why AlgaeCal is his go-to recommendation for increasing bone density.

Popular Bone Health Myths—Busted!

Think you’ve got bone health all figured out? Think again.

Dr. Doug Lucas flips common misconceptions on their head. If you’ve ever believed any of these myths, don’t worry—you’re not alone. But it’s time to get the real story, so you can take control of your bone health starting today.

Myth #1: Bone loss only affects the elderly.

Bone loss isn’t just something to worry about when you’re older—it can actually start in your 20s or 30s. Life events like hormonal changes, pregnancy, or even an injury can speed it up. But here’s the good news: no matter your age or stage in life, you can take steps to protect and strengthen your bones. It’s never too early (or too late) to start.

Myth #2: Bone loss is natural and can’t be reversed.

Not true. Dr. Doug explains that osteoporosis isn’t a life sentence—it’s simply a metabolic imbalance. And the best part? It can be corrected. With the right food, smart exercise, and the right supplements, your bones can rebuild and get stronger.

Myth #3: You don’t need to worry about bone loss unless you have symptoms.

Bone loss is often called a “silent disease” because you usually don’t know it’s happening until you break a bone. That’s why Dr. Doug emphasizes the importance of getting checked early—waiting until you feel the effects could mean it’s already too late.

Myth #4: Drinking milk is the best way to get enough calcium.

Milk can help, but Dr. Doug says it’s not a cure-all for bone health. It’s just one option, and how much it helps depends on things like the type of milk and how it’s processed. For a better choice, Dr. Doug recommends whole-food calcium sources like AlgaeCal, which offer more benefits and better results.

Myth #5: Calcium is all you need to prevent bone loss

Think again. Without nutrients like vitamin D3 and K2, your body can’t absorb or properly use calcium. That’s why Dr. Doug recommends supplements like AlgaeCal Plus, which combine these essentials in one formula.

Myth #6: Weight-bearing exercise is the only way to improve bone health.

While weight-bearing exercises like walking can help slow bone loss, Dr. Doug emphasizes the importance of resistance training and impact exercises for actually building bone. The key is lifting as heavy as you can—safely.

Why Dr. Doug Recommends AlgaeCal

With years of experience treating patients and an unwavering commitment to evidence-based care, Dr. Doug Lucas doesn’t endorse supplements lightly. When it comes to bone health, he chooses the ONLY one backed by clinical studies: AlgaeCal.

Here’s why AlgaeCal stands out as his top recommendation.

  1. It’s Backed by Research.
    Unlike most supplements that rely on hype and baseless claims, AlgaeCal is supported by solid clinical studies. Dr. Doug says it best: “AlgaeCal hands down has more evidence to support it than any other supplement in the bone health space.” In fact, AlgaeCal is the ONLY calcium supplement that’s clinically supported to increase bone density.
  2. It’s safe.
    Most calcium supplements are made from rocks—calcium carbonate or citrate—that your body struggles to absorb. That’s why you can end up with nasty side effects like bloating, constipation, and gas. But AlgaeCal is different. It’s a plant-based calcium sourced from organic algae, which is easier on your body.
  3. It reduces the patient “pill burden”.
    With AlgaeCal, you’re covering multiple nutritional bases in fewer pills. For Dr. Doug, this is a game-changer for patients who already feel overwhelmed by long supplement lists. AlgaeCal is packed with 16 essential nutrients your bones need to rebuild and stay strong: plant-based calcium, magnesium, boron, copper, manganese, silicon, nickel, selenium, strontium, phosphorus, potassium, vanadium, zinc, plus vitamins D3, K2 (MK-7), and C. Together, these nutrients work synergistically to strengthen your bones—without the risks linked to traditional calcium supplements.

Dr. Doug Lucas trusts AlgaeCal because it delivers real, measurable results. Whether you’re taking your first steps toward better bone health or actively working to restore lost bone density, AlgaeCal provides a safe, clinically supported, and natural way to increase your bone density.

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  1. Mary Volcheff

    January 18, 2025 , 12:04 pm

    Great video~ I am wondering why Strontium Boost was not addressed. Dr Doug mentioned AlgaeCal and D3 complete by name ~ seems as though Strontium Boost would have been part of the discussion. Thank you, Mary

  2. Yoori AlgaeCal

    January 20, 2025 , 6:34 pm

    Great question, Mary! There’s no specific reason why Strontium Boost wasn’t directly mentioned in Dr. Doug’s video. However, I can assure you that Dr. Doug is a strong advocate of the AlgaeCal program, including Strontium Boost.
    – Yoori

  3. Gabrielle Hochberg

    January 18, 2025 , 3:41 pm

    I don’t see copper, manganese, and other minerals mentioned in my bottles. Calcium is just one part of bone, there are a lot of miinerals that make up bone.that we can be deficient in. So if stroteum is in this, why do we have to take stroteum seperately?

  4. Nora

    January 18, 2025 , 6:04 pm

    It’s not clear if Dr Lucas is speaking of AlgaeCal or AlgaeCal Plus, or AlgaeCalPlus & Strontium Boost. Can you please confirm which he is speaking of and which is it that he suggests to his patients.

  5. Yoori AlgaeCal

    January 20, 2025 , 7:45 pm

    Thank you for reaching out, Nora! In this video, Dr. Lucas primarily discusses AlgaeCal Plus. However, if your goal is to increase bone density, we highly recommend adding Strontium Boost to your regimen. Our clinical studies show that while AlgaeCal alone increased bone density by an average of 1.3% per year, combining it with Strontium Boost tripled this rate! Dr. Lucas is a strong advocate for the entire AlgaeCal program, including Strontium Boost.
    – Yoori

  6. Pat Riecken

    January 18, 2025 , 6:16 pm

    I can’t take the strontium boost . Does the AlgaeCal improve density without the strontium?

  7. Yoori AlgaeCal

    January 20, 2025 , 6:38 pm

    Thank you for reaching out, Pat! While taking Strontium Boost alongside AlgaeCal provides more optimal results, AlgaeCal alone has been clinically supported to increase bone density by about 1.3% per year. You can view our clinical studies HERE. Any other questions, don’t hesitate! 🙂
    – Yoori

  8. Ellen Dustman

    January 18, 2025 , 8:13 pm

    Please direct me to the research he references.

  9. Yoori AlgaeCal

    January 20, 2025 , 7:47 pm

    Thank you for reaching out, Ellen! May I confirm if you’re looking for studies supporting his statement about how AlgaeCal helps increase bone density? If so, you can find the studies on our website HERE. The most recent study lasted for 7 years and demonstrated consistent, linear increases year after year. As a result of these findings, AlgaeCal is the only calcium supplement verified by Health Canada to “help to increase/improve bone mineral density.” I hope this helps!
    – Yoori

  10. Mahin

    January 19, 2025 , 4:13 am

    This article is amazing, because answers to my so many questions that I had in my mind, and believe
    Will help me a lot

  11. Edith Shenton

    January 19, 2025 , 6:22 am

    I live in Tasmania, Australia. In October 2020, when I was in my mid 60s, I went ice-skating with my daughter and granddaughter. We had enjoyed ice-skating together several months earlier and I had iceskated once before, in my childhood. I fell on the ice, and realised I could not place any weight on my right leg because it just wouldn’t work.
    I had a very successful hip replacement, and after a few months resumed all my usual activities including lifting very heavy bonsai trees, gardening, pilates, hiking etc.

    In 2021 I had my first bone density scan result which showed I had a strong spine and oesteopaenia in my left hip and wrist. I ate a lot of cheese. In 2022 I tripped and fell back against a shed wall, angling my fall on my right side to avoid falling on a glass window leaning on the wall. I had a glenoid fracture in my right shoulder. I recovered from it well, and ate lots of cheese.

    A friend in our pilates group was also dealing with osteoporosis, and she told me about AlgaeCal. I started taking it in late 2023. My second bone density scan in early 2024 showed a .8% increased density in my spine, no change in my wrist and osteoporosis in my left hip.

    In August 2024 I went scuba diving in Fiji and with wet bare feet slipped on the polished concrete floor, falling on my right wrist. We thought it was a sprain, so did the rest ice compression elevation treatment, including some Fijian herbal treatment of Beach hyacinth leaves wrapped around my wrist under the compression bandage. Four days later back in Tasmania an X ray showed a wrist fracture.

    When the cast was removed the doctor said the fracture had healed very well. He was the first medical person to show any interest when I said I was taking AlgaeCal. The complete dismissal of the possibility of increasing bone density by my own doctor and all the other medical personnel I’ve encountered is quite alarming. So I am delighted to hear Dr Lucas’ experiences trying to help his patients has resulted in such a positive endorsement of AlgaeCal. I have only been using AlgaeCal for just over a year, but am very heartened by this presentation.

    Thank you for providing this information, and thank you to everyone for sharing your experiences.

  12. Yoori AlgaeCal

    January 20, 2025 , 7:21 pm

    Thank you for sharing your incredible story with us, Edith! It’s inspiring to hear how determined and resilient you’ve been through various challenges on your bone health journey.

    It’s wonderful to hear that you’ve experienced positive results since starting AlgaeCal, and we’re so glad to have you as part of our community!

    Kepp up the great work, and let’s work towards your next scan, Edith! f you ever have any questions or need additional support, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Wishing you continued success on your journey to stronger bones! 🙂
    – Yoori

  13. Karen Peebles

    January 19, 2025 , 9:19 am

    Is thyroid medication responsible for the following: bone loss, hair loss, rising lipid counts and joint pains? If so, it appears taking Algae Cal while also taking thyroid medication counters each other like a battle of bone building. No? Please
    Enlightened me. Thank you! Karen

  14. Yoori AlgaeCal

    January 20, 2025 , 7:16 pm

    Thank you for reaching out, Karen! While we’re not medical professionals and recommend consulting your doctor or pharmacist for advice on the potential side effects of thyroid medications, I can share that my understanding is thyroid medications may contribute to bone loss. The good news is that many members of our community who take thyroid medications have successfully increased their bone density while taking AlgaeCal. This is because AlgaeCal provides all 13 bone essential minerals, and is the only calcium supplement clinically supported to increase bone density! Please feel free to give us a call at 1-800-820-0184 (US & Canada Toll-free) or email [email protected] for any additional questions. We are happy to help. 🙂
    – Yoori

  15. Merrilee A Miller

    January 19, 2025 , 2:49 pm

    I’m an avid YouTube watcher and left a message, quite a while back, for Dr. Lucas. My message stated that I’ve been successful in increasing bone density using Algae Cal’s Strontium Boost.

  16. Yoori AlgaeCal

    January 20, 2025 , 6:41 pm

    That’s fantastic, Merrilee! We are so happy for you. 🙂 Keep up the great work, and let us know if you have any questions along the way!
    – Yoori

  17. Vicki Brombacher

    January 19, 2025 , 7:01 pm

    What is whole body vibration?

  18. Yoori AlgaeCal

    January 20, 2025 , 6:55 pm

    Thank you for your question, Vicki! Whole-body vibration involves standing, sitting, or lying on a machine with a vibrating platform. As the platform vibrates, it transmits energy to your body, causing muscles to contract and relax rapidly.

    Our in-house physical therapist, Dr. Emma Gasinski, has a video going over vibration plates HERE. As well, you can find more information on this on our blog article HERE for your interest.

    Please keep in mind that it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new exercise regimen, especially if you have existing health conditions. I hope this helps!
    – Yoori

  19. Leslie irwin

    January 21, 2025 , 8:44 am

    Why isn’t the collagen plant based or marine

  20. Yoori AlgaeCal

    January 21, 2025 , 4:50 pm

    Great question, Leslie! Our collagen is sourced from animals, as collagen itself is a protein found naturally in animal connective tissues.

    Regarding supplements marketed as “vegan collagen,” it’s important to note that these typically don’t contain actual collagen peptides. Instead, they often include nutrients known as “collagen boosters,” which provide the body with the building blocks to support its natural type I collagen synthesis. While these boosters can be beneficial, they are distinct from collagen peptides and work differently in the body.

    I hope this helps clarify! 🙂
    – Yoori

  21. Bonnie Jackson

    January 21, 2025 , 3:56 pm

    I was told I cannot take AlgaeCal as it contains K2. I am on a baby aspirin to prevent plaque build up as well as a statin. My Pharmacist said K2 would interfere with the reason for taking baby aspirin. What else can I take that would help build calcium but would not have K2.?

  22. Yoori AlgaeCal

    January 22, 2025 , 8:14 pm

    Thank you for reaching out, Bonnie! For people taking the vitamin K antagonist class of blood thinners, we recommend AlgaeCal because it’s formulated without K2. However, my understanding is that your medication is not a vitamin K antagonist, so it does not interact with vitamin K2. You can learn more about this HERE.

    Many members of our community take AlgaeCal Plus with this medication. That said, we always recommend consulting your doctor or pharmacist when adding supplements to your medication routine. HERE is our Doctor Information Sheet for AlgaeCal Plus and HERE is the one for regular AlgaeCal. I hope this helps! 🙂
    – Yoori

  23. Patricia Murray

    January 31, 2025 , 1:55 am

    I the video was informative, I only take the Maintenace dose of 3 X Algae Cal a day plus 1 Strontium Boast
    at Night , is this enough to stop bone loss.

  24. Coral

    January 31, 2025 , 3:58 pm

    Thank you for your question, Patricia! If you are looking to build bone density, we would advise that you stick to the full clinically studied dosage for best results- a total of 4 capsules of AlgaeCal Plus and 2 capsules of Strontium Boost. 🙂

    Additionally, it may help to know that for those who have achieved healthy bone density in all areas measured on a DEXA scan, we still typically suggest sticking with 4 AlgaeCal Plus a day as a means to ensure your bones stay healthy. At this stage, many of our community members will discontinue Strontium Boost (although some like to take 1 capsule for peace of mind!). I hope this helps!
    -Coral

  25. Mahin

    January 31, 2025 , 6:56 pm

    Thanks for sending me always such a good and informative articles

  26. Irene

    January 31, 2025 , 9:12 pm

    Can you please repeat where more information from the Dr can be found?

  27. Yoori AlgaeCal

    February 4, 2025 , 2:51 pm

    Thank you for reaching out, Irene!

    Dr Doug Lucas has a great YouTube channel, and you are welcome to check him out HERE.

    In case you’d like to discuss AlgaeCal program with your doctor, you can find our Doctor Information Sheet HERE. I hope this helps! 🙂
    – Yoori

  28. Jocelyne Chadwick

    February 4, 2025 , 12:31 pm

    Loved Dr Lucas’ video.
    Where is he located at and do you have a website for him for further info.
    Thank you so much AlgaeCal for caring.

  29. Yoori AlgaeCal

    February 4, 2025 , 2:46 pm

    We’re glad you loved Dr. Doug Lucas’ video! 🙂

    From my understanding, Dr. Doug Lucas operates a nationwide telehealth practice, allowing him to consult with patients across the United States. HERE is his website if you’d like to learn more about him!
    – Yoori

  30. Maria Houston

    February 9, 2025 , 2:01 pm

    Can I order AlgaeCal on Amazon? I’m currently taking Vitamin D3 collagen peptides and calcium citrate. I’m 65 with osteoporosis but my levels have stayed the same for 3 years. I do exercises for osteo arthritis in my lower back. According to Mayo Clinic. strotium can cause heart problems. I also have ulcerative colitis and have to be careful for gut side effects. You said you are not doctors. I thought Dr. Lucas is. How do I contact him directly? I’m from Iowa. Thanks. Maria.

  31. Yoori AlgaeCal

    February 10, 2025 , 4:30 pm

    Thank you for reaching out, Maria! You can certainly order AlgaeCal on Amazon. 🙂 Just make sure that the seller is listed as “AlgaeCal” to ensure it’s a genuine product.

    As for your concern, did you know there are different forms of strontium? We use natural strontium citrate, which is clinically supported to be beneficial for bone health – without adverse side effects! You can learn more HERE.

    While Dr. Lucas is not a direct part of our team, we are happy to collaborate with him! To reach out to Dr. Doug Lucas team, you can visit his official website HERE. Additionally, Dr. Lucas is active on social media platforms such as YouTube channel HERE, where you can follow his updates! 🙂
    – Yoori

This article features advice based on cutting-edge research from our industry experts to give you the best possible information to support your bone-building journey.

Lara Pizzorno
MDiv, MA, LMT - Best-selling author of Healthy Bones Healthy You! and Your Bones; Editor of Longevity Medicine Review, and Senior Medical Editor for Integrative Medicine Advisors.,
Dr. Liz Lipski
PhD, CNS, FACN, IFMP, BCHN, LDN - Professor and Director of Academic Development, Nutrition programs in Clinical Nutrition at Maryland University of Integrative Health.,
Dr. Emma Gasinski
PT, DPT, RYT - Physical therapist and certified yoga teacher with a Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Rocky Mountain University of Health Professionals,
Dr. Lawrence (Larry) A. May
MD, FACP, Harvard Medical School Graduate, Physician, Author, Public Speaker - Doctor of Internal Medicine at Providence Cedars-Sinai Tarzana Medical Center and author of several articles and books, including the widely utilized and best selling medical textbook Primary Care Medicine,