Advertisements fool you into believing you need a lengthy list of supplements to optimize our health and encourage longevity. You also hear from reputable sources that certain supplements reduce pain and improve your health in other ways. However, if you took all the vitamins, minerals and herbal remedies they suggest you need, you could find yourself spending a huge chunk of money and popping a plethora of pills; that’s why you need to be selective about the supplements you choose.
1. Calcium and Vitamin D
Calcium and vitamin D are necessary for bone health. Seniors could find themselves experiencing more fractures as a result of an inadequate intake of calcium and vitamin D. Calcium is a mineral needed for the formation and maintenance of healthy bones. Vitamin D helps to absorb the calcium.
Without an adequate amount of the nutrients, the bones can weaken, putting a person more at risk for fractures. Additionally, an inadequate amount of vitamin D and calcium can prevent bone regeneration. You’re more at risk of developing osteoporosis when your intake of these nutrients is low, especially if you’re a woman. According to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Disease, individuals 70 and under should intake 600 IU of vitamin D per day while both men and women who are older than 70 should consume 800 IU daily.
2. B Vitamins
It’s common for you to lack B vitamins, especially vitamin B12 and B6. Vitamins in this complex play a role in breaking down food for energy. They’re vital in the process of forming blood cells. Vitamin B12 is necessary for the brain and nerves to function optimally. As you age, you become more prone to vitamin B deficiencies.
Generally, it’s recommended a man over the age of 50 should consume 1.7 mg of vitamin B6, also known as pyridoxine. On the other hand, a woman over the age of 50 should consume 1.5 mg of the pyridoxine. There’s also an increased need for vitamin B12 as a person ages. Both men and women who are over 50 should get 2.4 micrograms of vitamin B12 each day. The Mayo Clinic recommends seniors take between 25 and 100 micrograms of B12 each day to maintain a healthy level.
3. Fiber
It just seems like everything slows down as you age. Your joints and muscles hinder you from moving as quickly as you’d like. Any other health problems you have might prevent you from participating in the activities you once enjoyed.
Unfortunately, your bowels react the same way as you age; they slow down. You can counteract the problem by consuming a diet high in fiber or taking a fiber supplement. This prevents issues such as stomach pains that occur due to constipation.
4. Omega Fatty Acids
If you’re eating fish regularly, you may consume enough omegas, but if you don’t, a supplement may assist in meeting the recommended dosages. This nutrient reduces the symptoms of depression. It’s also useful in promoting optimal heart health.
Omega-3 reduces any decrease in visual acuity caused by macular degeneration. Those who have Alzheimer’s have less speech loss when they take an omega supplement. Omega-6 has the potential to reduce inflammation in the joints of individuals who have arthritis. The amount you should take depends on the condition you’re looking to improve. Only your physician will be able to advise you on the proper amount for you.
5. Iron
Iron is a necessary mineral that’s part of the hemoglobin in the blood. Hemoglobin is necessary for carrying oxygen to your lungs. Additionally, the muscles require it to use and store oxygen properly.
If you opt for an herbal supplement, remember that, even though they’re natural, herbs have the ability to interact with the medications you take. Moreover, herbs can cause side effects and even worsen some of the conditions you already have. Taking too little of a nutrient leads to health problems, but in some cases, taking too much of a supplement is just as bad. For instance, an overabundance of iron leads to toxicity, especially if you have hemochromatosis. For other nutrients, if you consume too much, your body will excrete the excess, and you’ll end up wasting money.
Always consult with your physician prior to starting a supplement. Your doctor can advise you on the dosages and any safety precautions you should heed while taking the supplement.
~ Health Scams Exposed
