Important Vitamins for the Elderly ─ Best Vitamin Food

Many factors influence our health, and in some cases, we are not in control of those factors. Different viruses, bacteria, and environmental issues can harm our bodies. Senior organism differs, their lifestyle and nutrition are not like in other age groups, so there are ways and tips on how to slow down the process of aging.

Here we will tell you about important vitamins and supplements for the older generation, that will help them live their life to the fullest.

Most Essential Vitamins for the Elderly

Taking vitamins in old age is important since we can’t nutrients from food, to fill gaps in your diet you need to take some extra supplements.

Vitamins that are recommended for older people include:

Vitamin C

Powerful immune booster for any age, it increases white blood cell production to ward off infection and disease. It also provides vital antioxidant protection to shield white blood cells from free radicals. When seniors do get sick, vitamin C may speed up the recovery process.

Vitamin D

With getting older, people are more open to chronic skeletal diseases like osteoporosis. Vitamin D is related to building and maintaining healthy bones. It also helps to absorb calcium and maintain calcium and phosphate concentrations at normal levels. People of different ages have to take different dosages of vitamin D, and for older people, it is recommended to take at least 800 IU of vitamin D.

Calcium

An important mineral for strong bones and teeth, it is especially recommended for older people because of the risk of bone loss. Adequate vitamin D and calcium go hand in hand to ensure bone health and reduce the risk of breakage and hip fracture.

Magnesium

The mineral helps to keep blood pressure and maintain strong bones and a steady heart rhythm. Magnesium-deficient conditions are associated with neuromuscular and cardiovascular disorders, endocrine disturbances, insulin resistance, and Alzheimer’s disease.

B- Vitamins

With age, the ability to absorb vitamin B12 decreases and it gets more difficult to get enough only from the food you eat. If you lack B12 you are more open to depression and mood swings, which is not very healthy in old age.

Potassium

Essential mineral for normal cell functioning improves muscle and bone strength and reduces the risk of kidney stones and high blood pressure. Low potassium can cause mood changes in older adults, including confusion, depression, nervous disorders, and erratic behavior.

Iron

Iron is an essential mineral that has several important roles in the body, including helping to make red blood cells that carry oxygen around the body. To boost iron absorption you should have enough vitamin C in your diet.

The Best Vitamin Food for Seniors

We all know the phrase “An apple a day keeps the doctor away” and in some ways it is true. You can support your body with a healthy and nutritional diet full of fruits and vegetables.

Here are a few fruits seniors should consider adding to their pantry:

Apples

Since we mentioned them above our list will also start with them. Apples are high in pectin and antioxidants and help lower cholesterol levels, and protect from asthma and obstructive pulmonary disease.

Grapefruit

A glass of grapefruit juice or a grapefruit pill can decrease the risk of insulin resistance.

Dried plums

Fruit is very beneficial for women. It protects bones from brittleness that starts when estrogen level dip.

Tangerines

Full of flavanoid, this bright fruit protects your body from metabolic syndrome, diabetes and stroke.

Cranberries

This berry can stop the spread of bacteria that causes cavities. It is best to use fresh cranberries or make your relish, avoid buying cranberry products at the store since they are full of sugar.

You can find more useful information about elderly care at MyLifeChoice.org.