Do anti-aging supplements really work, or are they just hyped for sales promotion? Let’s talk about facts. A well-balanced diet that provides all essential nutrients is enough to support smooth body function and overall well-being at any age. So, you don’t need to add any supplements.
But do you know that as we age, our body’s natural ability to absorb nutrients decreases due to physiological changes? This makes us more vulnerable to different deficiencies, leading to premature aging signs along with multiple health issues. This is where the genuine need for suitable supplements containing key micronutrients comes in.
Just choose the nutrients that older adults are more likely to be deficient in. Here, get insight into how to choose supplements for seniors to prevent common age-related medical issues.
What Supplements Help with Aging Well?
Some of the common vitamins and minerals often prescribed by healthcare providers to middle-aged people and seniors are:
Vitamin B12 and Vitamin C
These are essential vitamins for energy and healthy aging, as their deficiency adversely affects the aging process. Vitamin B12 absorption from natural food declines with age, making older adults more prone to impaired cognition and other health issues. This vitamin plays a key role in various cellular processes, particularly neurological functioning, including mood regulation and memory formation. Getting an inadequate amount becomes problematic in older age.
Likewise, vitamin C is an essential nutrient that strengthens our immune system. Due to poor absorption with age, older adults can become deficient quite easily. A weakened immune system is a major factor behind the high rate of health issues among seniors. Strengthening your natural defenses with vitamin C supplements contributes to overall wellness.
Herbal Supplements
Along with dietary supplements containing essential macro- and micronutrients, herbal extract-based supplements also work wonders for aging-related issues. Sleep deprivation and anxiety are among the most common problems many seniors experience. To address these symptoms naturally, cannabinoids may serve as a complementary treatment.
The role of cannabidiol for sleep is backed by different research studies offering promising results in the elderly. With its stress-relieving properties, this cannabinoid helps seniors enjoy more restful nights, reducing insomnia symptoms.
Iron and Folate
Iron and folate are also essential nutrients to get from supplements in older age. In seniors, iron-deficiency anemia is quite common due to the body’s reduced capacity to absorb iron from daily food intake. You can identify this deficiency through obvious symptoms such as fatigue, chest pain, and shortness of breath. If left untreated, anemia can lead to hazardous effects, even mortality. After proper examination, your medical healthcare provider may prescribe a suitable dosage to meet the deficiency.
Similarly, a diet rich in folic acid or its supplements in the daily routine helps delay cognitive impairments such as memory loss and also regulates appetite for optimal weight management.
Calcium and Vitamin D
With age, bone strength naturally decreases, accompanied by thinning bone density and cartilage loss. Looking for essential vitamins and minerals to support bone health and prevent joint pain or stiffness? Try calcium and vitamin D supplements, as they strengthen bones and help maintain their density even in older age.
If you are already experiencing joint issues such as osteoarthritis, consider adding collagen supplements. It’s a structural protein to address knee pain and promote smoother body movements.
Bottom Line
No doubt, supplements cannot replace natural foods, and they should not be taken as a substitute: they serve as support to address common deficiencies in older age. Also, overdosing on any nutrient can come with minor to serious side effects, irrespective of age.
However, the above-mentioned nutrients fall under the category of safe supplements for aging gracefully. Just ensure you consume the appropriate dosage based on your body’s needs by consulting your medical healthcare provider to avoid any inconvenience.
