Introduction
Minerals & vitamins are very important for disease prevention and optimal system functioning among people from the time of conception until death. The elderly in particular will need to take more of some types to support their bodies because they are slowly degenerating and systems can no longer cope with the demands of activities like before. Some elements must be lowered in dosage while others must be increased depending on the needs and rate of absorption.
History
People are encouraged to take a multivitamin once a day in pill or liquid form. When the person reaches 55 to 65 years old, it is recommended that they take a multivitamin that's especially formulated for senior citizens. These nutritional products usually include all the basics but in different quantities. The basic elements are still present like vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin E, vitamin D, vitamin B3, vitamin B6 and vitamin B12. Other minerals are also present like magnesium, calcium, iron, potassium, chromium, manganese and zinc. The elderly must visit their doctor to have minerals & vitamins recommended depending on their current situation. Individuals who have underlying health issues might be advised to take higher dosages of certain products.
Features
Taking Calcium
In many cases, the elderly are required to take minerals & vitamins in a single pill and then supplement it by taking another capsule or two of calcium supplement. Calcium becomes highly essential during late adulthood because the bones and joints are not as strong as before. The body requires calcium for a variety of purposes such as keeping bones and teeth strong, contracting and widening the blood vessels, secreting enzymes and hormones and maintaining proper joint function. Calcium can also be acquired from dairy products and cheese. Women are especially prone to osteoporosis so they have to take in more calcium.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is known as one of the essential water-soluble vitamins and helps in digestion and absorption of other vitamins in the body. Seniors must consume at least 10 mcg of vitamin D per day. Aside from taking a supplement or pill, the vitamin is also available by taking walks early in the morning or late in the afternoon for 15 to 20 minutes and eating cheese, salmon and sardines.
About Iron
Many senior citizens are deficient in minerals & vitamins especially iron leading to problems in digestion, blood circulation and red blood cell production. Seniors can become anemic if blood stores and iron are low. They have to take more of these. However, there are senior citizens that are advised to limit their intake of iron. There are special multivitamins that are iron-free. Doctors recommend that the person only acquires iron from food sources.
Pills or Food?
Seniors are wondering if it's better to complete their minerals & vitamins requirement through food intake or supplementation. Doctors still advise that they eat a healthy and balanced diet to have all the basic amounts and then take a multivitamin to complete the requirements. Follow the doctor's recommendations if other minerals have to be upped by taking a separate dose for it.
