Dietary supplements are substances that you can use to enhance your diet with nutrients or reduce the risk of health concerns such as osteoporosis or arthritis. Dietary supplements are available in tablet, capsule, powder, gel capsules and tablets, extract or liquid form. Vitamins, minerals, fiber, amino acids, herbs or other plants and enzymes may be present. Dietary supplements are sometimes incorporated into foods and beverages.Also Read – Vitamin B12 Diet: Less Stamina and Energy? Add these vitamin B12 rich foods to your diet – watch the video
Dietary supplements for elderly people
People over the age of 50 may need more specific vitamins and minerals than younger people. You can ask your doctor or nutritionist if you need to adjust your diet or take vitamin or mineral supplements to get enough of: Also Read – What is the right age to include vitamin supplements in your daily lifestyle?
Calcium:
Calcium, along with vitamin D, helps keep bones healthy at all ages. Fractures can develop in both older men and women as a result of bone loss. Calcium can be found in milk and milk products (preferably fat-free or low-fat), canned fish with soft bones, dark green leafy vegetables such as kale, and calcium-fortified foods such as breakfast cereals. Also Read – How much vitamin C do you need for good health and if you are overweight? This new study reveals for the first time
Vitamin D:
Most Americans consume less vitamin D than recommended. Consult your doctor before consuming vitamin D-fortified milk and milk products, vitamin D-fortified cereals and fatty fish, and before taking vitamin D supplements.
Vitamin B6:
It is essential for the production of red blood cells. It can be found in potatoes, bananas, chicken breast and fortified cereals.
Vitamin B12:
This vitamin supports the health of your red blood cells and neurons. While older individuals need the same amount of vitamin B12 as normal adults, some have difficulty absorbing the vitamin through food. If you have this condition, your doctor may advise you to eat foods rich in this vitamin or take B12 supplements. Because organic vitamin B12 sources are limited to animal foods, vegans and vegetarians are more likely to develop vitamin B12 insufficiency. Consult your doctor to see if taking a B12 supplement is good for you.
Dr. Namita, Head Nutritionist, Fortis Hospital, Noida mentions, “Dietary supplements can be useful at any age, but they can also have unwanted consequences, such as dangerous prescription drug interactions. They may not work. It is important to understand the supplements you are taking and why you are taking them. If you are considering taking supplements, consult your doctor first.”
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is crucial whether you use dietary supplements or not. Try to eat a good diet, be physically active, keep your mind busy, quit smoking and visit your doctor regularly.
