As we age, our bodies become less efficient when it comes to processing the nutrients that we get from dietary sources, and sometimes we may not have the time or energy to prepare well-balanced meals. Moreover, with the increase in medications that seniors have to take, whether for blood pressure, high cholesterol or arthritis, they may need extra help to break down nutrients to maintain healthy levels in the body. For these reasons, adding daily vitamin supplements may make the difference when it comes to your general health and well-being. Consider the following nutritional and vitamin supplements available at your local drug store.
The best way to get all the vitamins and minerals you need, without worrying about missing one or having to pick and choose the ones you should be taking, is to select a multi-vitamin supplement with vitamins A, B12, C and D, along with iron. This takes the guesswork out of the equation, and there are many formulations designed specifically for those over age 50. However, if you want to fine-tune your supplements to your individual needs, read on.
Hip fractures account for many hospital admissions in the elderly, and for this reason, ensuring that you get enough vitamin D in your diet is highly recommended. Sometimes, we may avoid the constipating effects of cheese, or perhaps drinking a glass of milk daily is just not part of your daily routine. Taking a chewable vitamin D supplement is an easy way to get this important nutrient into your diet.
Iron-poor blood was a catchphrase for many tonics popular in the 20th century, and indeed hemoglobin (iron) is responsible for the transport of red blood cells throughout the body. It may be hard to get sufficient iron-rich food into our daily diet, such as through liver and organ meats, cream of wheat, dark leafy greens, molasses, prunes or mollusks, so taking an iron supplement may be what your body needs for enhanced energy and optimum function. Consider drinking orange juice with your iron supplement; this can both ensure you’re getting sufficient vitamin C in your diet as well as prevent the constipating effects of iron.
You may have heard a lot about Co Q 10, most likely from commercials or magazine ads, and wondered what it could do for you. This interesting molecule was first discovered in 1957 and occurs naturally in cells; in fact, it’s responsible for energy uptake at the cellular level. You may wonder what that means to you: studies have shown that a lack of this enzyme may indicate heart disease or the susceptibility to it, as well as the risk of cancer or cardiovascular problems. Consider adding this supplement to your daily nutritional program and always let your doctor know about any supplement you’re taking considering.
