Is strontium a better alternative to calcium for bone growth?

Strontium may not be a better alternative to calcium when it comes to bone growth, but it does appear to have some benefits when it comes to the treatment of osteoporosis, states WebMD. Strontium seems to support the growth of new bone and retard the breakdown of old bone.

In one study, the bone density of the spines and hips in women with osteoporosis increased while they were taking strontium ranelate supplements, according to WebMD. They also suffered fewer bone fractures.

Like calcium, strontium is a silver metal, according to Webelements.com. It's softer than calcium, and because it's so reactive, it's never found in a free state.