Essential Dietary Supplements for Healthy Aging
Over 90% of Americans have a vitamin deficiency, according to the Biostation. Are you one of them? Without the right anti-aging vitamins, longevity herbs, and a balanced diet, you could put your health at risk.
Before that happens, consider adding the best supplements for seniors to your routine. These vitamins and minerals support healthy aging and longevity. Give your health a boost today!
B Vitamins
B vitamins are involved in many bodily processes, including:
- Energy production
- Immune health
- Brain function
- DNA repair
B vitamin deficiencies are associated with a higher risk of cognitive decline, heart disease, and osteoporosis in older adults, according to an abstract published in the National Library of Medicine. You can add these anti-aging vitamins to your routine by taking multivitamins.
You can add certain B vitamins to your routine through your diet, including thiamine, riboflavin, and folate. Consult your senior living community's dining program to adjust your diet. Otherwise, a restrictive diet could cause a deficiency.
You can find B12 in eggs, sardines, red meat, and other animal products. B6 is in bananas, dark leafy vegetables, citrus fruits, and fatty fish.
Adults over the age of 50 may be at an increased risk of a deficiency. In fact, our ability to absorb B12 weakens as we age, leading to lethargy and neurological issues. Consult a healthcare professional to determine which B vitamins you need.
Calcium
Calcium plays a key role in our bone health. Taking a calcium supplement can preserve bone density if it's not already a part of your diet.
Consider taking vitamin D to boost your body's natural absorption of calcium. You can find anti-aging vitamins that contain both.
Make sure to take calcium carbonate supplements with meals. If you're on stomach acid reducers, they could prevent adequate absorption.
Calcium citrate supplements are easier to absorb. You don't need to take these supplements with meals.
Increasing your calcium intake could improve your bone density while decreasing bone loss. Otherwise, consider making lifestyle changes to improve your overall health. Other factors that negatively affect bone density include:
- Low levels of estrogen and testosterone
- Neglecting weight-bearing exercises
- Smoking
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids can benefit your brain and overall health. Potential benefits include:
- Reduced depression symptoms
- Improved eye health
- Reduced anxiety symptoms
- Improved brain health
- Decreased risk of heart disease (by lowering triglycerides)
- Reduced inflammation
- Reduced risk of autoimmune diseases
- Alzheimer's and age-related mental decline prevention
- Reduced symptoms of metabolic syndrome
- Cancer prevention
- Reduced fat in the liver
- Improved bone and joint health
- Improved sleep
Consider adding omega-3 fatty acids to your routine if you're looking for supplements for skin health. Omega-3s could protect your skin against aging and promote skin hydration.
Protein and Collagen
Collagen is a protein found abundantly throughout the body, including your skin and muscles. Unfortunately, our bodies naturally produce less collagen as we get older. This can cause sagging or dry skin, wrinkles, and fine lines.
Add collagen supplements to your list of the best supplements for seniors if you're concerned about skin and bone health. Collagen can boost your skin's hydration and elasticity. It may also help reduce symptoms of osteoarthritis.
Otherwise, try adding more protein to your diet. Protein helps keep your blood sugar levels stable. It also plays a role in retaining and building muscle.
Consuming more protein can slow the process of sarcopenia (the gradual loss of muscle). This begins around age 40. You may need more protein as you grow older to preserve muscle mass.
Proteins provide the body with essential amino acids. They play a role in cell growth and repair.
Pair these anti-aging vitamins with a workout routine. Explore activities at your senior living community for effective workouts.
CoQ10
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) supports the body's energy production. Low levels can increase your risk of:
- Type 2 diabetes
- Heart failure
- Alzheimer's disease
- Cancer
Your body will produce less CoQ10 over time. Consider adding longevity herbs and supplements to your routine for healthy aging.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is also called the sunshine vitamin. Our bodies produce it when we're exposed to the sun.
Older adults are at an increased risk of vitamin D deficiency, especially those who avoid the sun to reduce the risk of skin cancer. Consider joining your senior living community's wellness programs. For example, your community may offer gardening or outdoor pilates classes.
It plays a part in calcium absorption, allowing us to maintain strong bones. Vitamin D is also important for metabolic function and the healing of fractures.
You can find vitamin D in fatty fish like salmon and tuna. To improve nutritional support for elderly citizens, explore your senior living community's dining options.
Magnesium
Many adults over age 70 don't get their required daily amount of magnesium. This mineral is associated with:
- Asthma
- Depression
- Type 2 diabetes
- Cardiovascular disease
- Impaired cognition
- Sleep disorders
It relaxes the muscles of the vascular wall and can lower blood pressure levels. High blood pressure is an issue for people over age 50. The loss of vascular flexibility occurs as we age.
You can find magnesium in leafy vegetables, milk, yogurt, and whole grains.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is an antioxidant. It helps fight free radicals, which can cause damaging oxidative stress. Add more vitamin C to your routine if you're interested in supplements for skin health.
It can help improve your skin's hydration. It may boost natural collagen production, leading to fewer fine lines and wrinkles.
Vitamin C can protect you from age-related conditions. Potential benefits include:
- Inflammation regulation
- Improved immune function
- Improved recognition
- Better attention and focus
- Improved recall and memory
Enjoy Anti-Aging Vitamins for Healthy Aging
For healthy aging, prioritize anti-aging vitamins and nutritional support for the elderly. Make sure your body is getting the vitamins and minerals it needs to function at its best.
Consider joining LakeHouse Coldwater, our senior living community in Coldwater, MI. We meet each resident's unique needs with quality care in an environment that provides a sense of belonging.
We'll ensure you receive the care and comfort you deserve. Discover our range of engaging activities, supportive services, and comfortable living options. Contact us now to schedule a tour.