As we get older the body becomes less effective at digesting food and less efficient at absorbing nutrients. An older body also falls prey to illness and disorders more easily. This is why dietary supplements can help the elderly by giving the body the nutrition it needs and by helping to shore up immunity.

Date:   7/17/2013 8:52:13 AM ( 11 y ago)

As we get older, the body organs function less than optimally. The body becomes less effective at digesting food and less efficient at absorbing nutrients from food. An older body is also less able to withstand infection and falls prey to illness and disorders more easily. This is why dietary supplements can help the elderly giving the body the nutrition it needs and by helping to shore up immunity.

Nutritional Challenges for People Over 50

Experts advise that as one grows older they have to become more careful of their health. Precautions such as taking the flu vaccine regularly, exercising and eating a high fiber diet are advisable. The risk of certain diseases rises due to nutritional deficiencies. It is important to correct nutritional deficiencies before they cause actual disease or symptoms; which in turn can help the elderly live independent, productive lives for longer.

Typically a person's appetite may decrease along with advancing age, so it can be a challenge to get the requisite nutrients from food while overall number of calories consumed may be reduced. Unintentional weight loss and a lowered interest in food are frequently observed among the elderly.  Chewing problems can compound the problem.

There is also the fact of prescription medications to contend with. A significant proportion of people over the age of 50 within the population, are required to take certain medications on a regular basis - these medicines could cause certain side effects, and may also inhibit the absorption of certain vital nutrients in the body.

Best Dietary Supplements for the Elderly

It is important for the elderly to have a varied, balanced diet that is nutrient rich and high in fiber. It is also important to cut out refined starches and sugars and unhealthy fats to the extent possible and substitute these with whole, unrefined foods and healthy fats. Adding certain nutritional supplements can help counter problems such as poor nutrient absorption and lowered appetite.

Calcium and Vitamin D

We all know the importance of these vital nutrients for bone health. It becomes even more critical for older people; particularly post-menopausal women. This becomes a challenge because older people may not be able to consume, digest or absorb sufficient calcium and vitamin D from their diet. With age, the skin's ability to produce Vitamin D with the help of the sun's rays also decreases.  

Folic Acid

Some experts recommend a folic acid supplement for the elderly to help reduce homocysteine levels in the body. Homocysteine is known to contribute to heart disease and stroke risk.

Vitamin B 12

Reduced amounts of certain stomach acids may interfere with the body's ability to digest food and absorb nutrients. This can cause neurological disorders and blood related disorders (anemia and so on).  Apart from eating food rich in B 12 such as eggs, salmon, meat and cheese, a supplement may also be advisable.

Vitamin E

This nutrient could reduce risk of stroke; heart disease and even cancer say experts. Eating a diet rich in healthy oils and nuts is important, but in many cases seniors may be well advised to include a vitamin E supplement as well.

Author information:

Sarika Periwal writes health and wellness articles for online publications. She particularly works towards care-giving for the elderly. The aged can prevent heart disease and get powerful antioxidants through coq10 supplements. Ask your doctor about it today. 

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