What is strontium? Strontium (Sr) is a chemical element very similar to calcium. Although it is considered a trace mineral (a substance that the body only needs in small amounts to stay healthy), it is actually an abundant chemical found in soil, rocks and seawater. This metallic substance is silvery, soft, alkaline and non-radioactive. It reacts easily with air and water, which is why in nature it is often combined with other elements or compounds to form more stable compounds such as strontianite carbonate (SrCO3) and the mineral celestite sulfate (SrSO4). In the environment, there are strontium compounds that are water soluble and those that are water insoluble. Water-soluble strontium compounds can pollute water and pose a health threat; however, they are present in very small quantities. Strontium is also used in many non-medicinal human activities in various forms. Almost all (99%) of the strontium in the body is found in bones. Food Sources of StrontiumAll strontium compounds eventually end up in soil and water, which can be absorbed by plants and animals. Seafood such as fish and shellfish are the main dietary source of strontium. Other food sources include whole milk, meat, other dairy products, poultry, wheat bran, cereals and root vegetables. What is strontium used for? There are many medical and non-medical uses of strontium. Strontium is used in different forms: Strontium ranelate is used to treat osteoporosis (weak, brittle bones), especially in older and postmenopausal women. This form of strontium is sold as a prescription medication (Protelos) in Europe and Australia for the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis. However, it has not been approved in the United States. Strontium gluconate...... middle of paper ...... and hip fractures in postmenopausal women. A study involving the use of strontium gluconate, which is more easily absorbed than strontium carbonate, showed that a lower dose of 274 mg/day is effective in reducing bone pain in patients with breast cancer. metastatic bone.Works citedLenntech. Strontium-Sr. http://www.lenntech.com/periodic/elements/sr.htmWebMD. Strontium. http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientmono-1077-STRONTIUM.aspx?activeIngredientId=1077&activeIngredientName=STRONTIUMWorldHealth.net. Strontium: breakthrough against osteoporosis.http://www.worldhealth.net/news/strontium_breakthrough_against_osteoporo/WebMD. Strontium treatment for osteoporosis.http://www.webmd.com/osteoporosis/guide/strontium-treatment-osteoporoseMedicineNet. Strontium. http://www.medicinenet.com/strontium-page3/supplements-vitamins.htm