As a person ages, his body\u2019s needs change, health conditions often arise, and more supplemental vitamins are often needed to maintain overall health. Therefore, if you are a senior, make sure you get these essential vitamins in your diet daily.<\/p>\n
Shop Vitamins & Minerals<\/a><\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Vitamin A works to keep the eyes, skin, hair, and nails healthy, and slows down the following natural effects of aging which seniors often experience: Vision difficulties, wrinkling of the skin, brittle nails, and hair loss.<\/p>\n Vitamin A works in the body to promote the health of all these organs and more. Also, vitamin A helps the immune system function by maintaining and repairing tissues and organs. Many seniors find they get sick more frequently than they did in their younger years, due to a weakened immune system. Supporting your immune system by increasing vitamin A intake helps ward off sickness. Some ways to improve your vitamin A status is to include foods rich in beta carotene in your diet. The body converts beta carotene to vitamin A as it is needed.<\/p>\n As we age, we absorb less and less calcium from our foods, which forces our bodies to take it from our bones. This is one of the reasons why the aging process can contribute to the development of osteoporosis. This is especially important for older women, as they tend to have smaller, thinner bones than men.<\/p>\n Calcium helps more than just our bones. The heart and nerves need calcium to function properly. Calcium also may protect against cancer, diabetes, and high blood pressure (when combined with vitamin D). Although animal products are rich in calcium, eating a lot of dairy products does not necessarily protect from osteoporosis and hip fractures. Also, population studies have not shown a benefit of eating dairy products for protection from bone fractures. Some plant foods to consume to obtain calcium are:<\/p>\n Vitamin D3 and K2 are excellent supplements when additional calcium is necessary.<\/p>\n Vitamin D works together with calcium to promote calcium absorption. Low levels of vitamin D are also linked to depression, so be sure to get plenty of vitamin D daily! Adding a 10-30 minute walk daily in the sunshine can help you get enough vitamin D, or you can take Vitamin D supplements<\/a> for the same effect.<\/p>\n Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin, meaning that the body absorbs it better when taken with a meal that contains fats. Be sure to include healthy fats in your meals, such as nuts, nut butter, seeds and avocados. \u00a0If using vitamin D3 supplements, take them with a meal with highest fat content or when supplementing your omega 3s.<\/p>\n Vitamin B12 plays a crucial role in supporting the healthy development of the brain and nervous system. It also helps to regulate DNA and assists with the metabolism processes in our body. Like most vitamins, as you age your ability to absorb vitamin B12 declines, so you want to ensure you are getting enough. \u00a0Consider taking a vitamin B12 (methylcobalamin form) supplement unless you know your B12 status is good.<\/p>\n Older adults may not consume enough iron in their diets, which is dangerous because iron helps transport oxygen throughout your body. If your body doesn\u2019t get enough iron, then you will lack enough healthy oxygen-carrying red blood cells. Luckily, iron is in a variety of foods:<\/p>\n Brain health is important for all, and seniors are no exception. By including enough Omega-3-rich foods in your diet each week, you will help prevent mental decline as you age. Omega-3s are important for many reasons, including eye and heart health, as well as your skin, bone, and joint health. Sources of this nutrient include:<\/p>\n By incorporating these vitamins into your diet through a variety of foods and supplements, you will help your body age with grace.<\/p>\nVitamin A<\/h2>\n
Vegetables<\/h3>\n
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Fruits<\/h3>\n
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Calcium<\/h2>\n
Fruits<\/h3>\n
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Vegetables<\/h3>\n
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Other Calcium-Rich Products<\/h3>\n
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Vitamin D<\/h2>\n
Vitamin B12<\/h2>\n
Iron<\/h2>\n
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Omega-3 Fatty Acids<\/h2>\n
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