Strontium, in Visit Clinic

Strontium is used primarily to support bone health: strontium ranelate has been prescribed in some countries to reduce fractures from osteoporosis, and oral strontium supplements are marketed for bone density. Strontium salts (e.g., strontium chloride) are used in toothpaste for dentine hypersensitivity. Radioactive strontium-89 is used to relieve bone pain from metastatic cancer.

Foods relatively high in strontium include seafood (especially shellfish and fish), dairy products (milk, cheese, yogurt), whole grains, legumes, nuts and seeds, leafy green vegetables, and root vegetables such as potatoes and carrots. Seaweed and some mineral-rich waters can also contain higher strontium levels. Intake varies by soil, water and regional food sources.

Strontium supplements have some benefits for bone density but carry safety concerns. Prescription strontium formulation is linked with increased cardiovascular risks and is restricted in some countries; over-the-counter forms have limited long-term data. Strontium accumulates in bone, can skew bone-density tests, and may interact with calcium and kidney disease. Use only under medical advice, avoid in pregnancy, and monitor heart and renal health.

Sr is the chemical symbol for strontium, atomic number 38. It's a soft, silvery alkaline-earth metal that oxidizes in air and reacts with water. Found in minerals like celestine and strontianite, strontium produces red color in fireworks and is used in ceramics and glass. Stable isotopes are common; radioactive 90Sr is a hazardous nuclear fission byproduct.

Strontium in small, natural amounts is not highly toxic and is present in food, water and bone. Toxicity depends on isotope and dose: radioactive strontium‑90 is hazardous, accumulates in bone and raises cancer risk. Very high intake of stable strontium can affect bone mineralization in children; some medicinal strontium compounds carry cardiovascular or other risks. Avoid excess exposure and follow medical advice.

No clear evidence that dietary or low‑dose strontium raises blood pressure in healthy people. However, the prescription drug strontium ranelate has been linked to increased cardiovascular risk and is contraindicated in patients with uncontrolled hypertension, ischemic heart disease, peripheral arterial disease, or cerebrovascular disease. If you have high blood pressure or heart disease, discuss any strontium product with your clinician before use.