In this episode, I’m joined by Narelle Chidwick, who has turned her diagnosis of osteoporosis into a personal mission to reclaim her health and inspire others. Known for her “Midlife Real Life” tagline on Instagram, she shares her raw and relatable journey of navigating osteoporosis in her late 40s while learning how lifestyle changes and early awareness can lead to better outcomes. Her story is one of hope, practicality, and empowerment, and I’m thrilled to bring her insights to the Stronger Bones Lifestyle audience.

The Power of Early Awareness

Narelle discovered she had osteoporosis at age 46, despite having no major warning signs other than a family history of bone health issues. This experience highlighted the importance of early markers like vitamin D levels, family history, and even stress management, which she now actively tracks.

Challenging the Fear Around Osteoporosis

Many women, including Narelle, initially experience fear and overwhelm after receiving a diagnosis. However, through education and a proactive approach, she learned to shift her mindset. By reframing osteoporosis as a condition she could manage, not a life sentence, Narelle took back control.

Lifestyle as Medicine

She emphasizes that building strong bones is not about one miracle supplement or food—it’s about a holistic approach. She discusses the importance of nutrient-rich diets, stress reduction, and proper sleep. Small, consistent choices have helped her feel stronger and more confident about her future.

The Role of Functional Medicine and Testing

We also delve into advanced testing options like REMS ultrasounds, which focus on bone quality and fracture risk, providing more actionable insights than traditional DEXA scans. These innovations, combined with functional medicine practices, have allowed her to take a more targeted and informed approach to her bone health.

Why This Matters to You

Osteoporosis and bone loss aren’t just issues for older women—they can begin in your 30s and 40s. Whether you’re already managing a diagnosis or seeking to prevent future problems, this episode is packed with practical advice. Narelle’s story is a reminder that by staying informed and making small, consistent changes, you can take charge of your health and enjoy an active, vibrant life well into the future.

Actionable Advice

• Track Your Markers: Keep an eye on vitamin D, calcium levels, and inflammatory markers. Regular blood tests and monitoring your symptoms can provide clues about your bone health.
• Nourish Your Bones: Incorporate bone-supporting nutrients like calcium, vitamin D, magnesium, and vitamin K through a diverse diet of nuts, seeds, leafy greens, and quality proteins.
• Prioritize Sleep and Stress Management: Chronic stress and poor sleep accelerate bone loss. Adopt practices like yoga nidra or meditation to support a calmer nervous system.
• Consider Functional Testing: Explore advanced testing like REMS ultrasound for a clearer picture of your bone quality and fracture risk.

Narelle’s journey is one of resilience and self-discovery. After grappling with the fear and confusion of her diagnosis, she embraced a proactive, solutions-focused mindset. Her newfound awareness has empowered her to reframe aging as an opportunity to grow stronger—not just physically, but mentally and emotionally as well.

Links and Resources to Explore

• Connect with Narelle Chidwick on Instagram: @NarelleChidwick
• Learn about REMS technology Osteoscan UK with Dr. Nick Birch at OsteoscanUk.com
• Explore my Healthy Gut, Healthy Bones Program: HealthyGutHealthyBones

If Narelle’s story resonates with you, take this as your sign to start prioritizing your bone health today. Listen to the full episode on Apple, Spotify, or YouTube, and don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast for more empowering conversations like this one.