Age Brings More Than Wisdom

From age 50 onwards, men and women alike can expect several changes. With age comes wrinkles, poor hearing, forgetfulness, and a gray hair or two. There’s a lot to look forward to. Aging can also bring unexpected nutritional deficiencies. Slower metabolism and smaller diets reduce the chances of getting the recommended daily supply of nutrients. Adults over 50 often become vitamin and mineral deficient. This is where supplementation comes in. Persons over 50 should focus on getting the following vital vitamins and minerals for a healthier life.

Boost your B12

Vitamin B consists of 8 complex vitamins. B vitamins are a part of almost every function in the body. B12, however, becomes even more crucial during the 50s, 60s, and beyond. Also known as cobalamin, B12 is involved in nerve health, energy, red blood cells, and brain health. Low B12 leads to fatigue, nerve problems, anemia, and even dementia. Speak with a doctor for suspected B12 deficiency and add a powerful daily B12 supplement.

Protect your bones with vitamin D

Bone health is critical with age. Bones become weaker and open to fractures, especially in women over 50. Vitamin D is mainly acquired from sunlight and absorbed through the skin. This vitamin helps process calcium, which is vital for healthy bones. Unfortunately, more than 50% of American adults do not get the daily recommended dose. A vitamin D supplement helps with the daily requirement, though nothing beats getting some daily sunlight.

Don’t forget calcium

Speaking of calcium, vitamin D would be ineffective is there is not enough calcium to process. Calcium is responsible for bones and teeth. While calcium is the most abundant mineral found in the body, a study of adults over 50 showed more than 40% were calcium-deficient. Some common food sources include eggs and dairy products. However, dietary changes, such as following a vegan diet, may reduce the daily intake. Adults over 50 may need a daily calcium supplement.

Count on CoQ10

Coenzyme Q10 or CoQ10 is a compound that triggers energy production in the cells. CoQ10 also helps convert food into energy and supports heart health. The body produces a steady supply of CoQ10. However, like most nutrients, the body produces less with age. Studies show a daily CoQ10 supplementation can prevent heart disease, diabetes, kidney, and liver disease.

Magnesium for many uses

Research has shown that only 50% of Americans get the right amounts of magnesium. The study goes on further to state that the standard diet only contains 50% of the recommended amount. Magnesium plays a role in hundreds of body functions and helps process vitamin D. The mineral also helps with blood pressure, diabetes prevention, and inflammation. Magnesium is a powerful supplement to add to a daily practice.

Get supplement help today

The body can get many of these vitamins and minerals from a healthy diet. However, supplementation is critical over age 50. With age, the body is unable to acquire and process vitamins. Does this mean a fistful of pills every day? Of course not. A pharmacist can recommend a multivitamin that contains most of these vital nutrients. Some pharmacies even practice compounding. With compounding, pharmacies can create a customized supplement in different forms like liquid or gel caps. Speak with a doctor, pharmacist, or compound pharmacy to determine the right supplements.