The Truth About Multivitamins for Seniors
When you’re wandering around the aisle of a drugstore, the shelves are lined with different types of multivitamins for seniors. We see them everywhere; they claim everything from a better memory to stronger bones to, you guessed it, boundless energy. But are these one pill taking care of all your vitamin and mineral needs and are they the right ones for you? The simple answer is, it depends on your diet, your health and the prescription drugs you are taking.
If you’ve lost your appetite or you are eating a restricted diet in assisted living Lakewood, multivitamins may be a good idea. A classic example of the former is vitamin B12, since our ability to absorb it decreases with age, due to a decrease in stomach acid production. A vitamin B12 deficiency could cause fatigue and nerve issues. However, a multivitamin with 100 percent of your daily value can prevent this issue.
Calcium and vitamin D are a good example of supplements that can increase your bone density. However, high levels of vitamin D may increase the risk of kidney stones in some and also interact with thyroid medications, so it’s not necessary for all seniors, especially if you eat dairy, calcium fortified plant milks or canned salmon regularly.
Multivitamins may also claim to have this or that brain herb such as ginkgo biloba or ginseng. The scientific evidence to support these is limited at best and many of these herbs thin the blood and affect blood sugar regulation, so ask your pharmacist about each ingredient.
Fat soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K) require fat to be properly absorbed by the body, so a multivitamin taken with a low-fat breakfast cereal might not be as beneficial. Add some avocado, nuts or olive oil to breakfast when you take your pill.
If you take more than the recommended daily value for any supplement, you may have surpassed the tolerable upper intake levels. Too much vitamin A, for example, could lead to liver issues, and more iron than you need can cause constipation and increased oxidative stress. You should not take more iron unless you have a diagnosed deficiency.
Different brands have different quality standards in assisted living facilities, so look for multivitamins that are tested by an independent third party, such as USP or NSF. This will ensure that what’s on the label is what’s in the capsule or tablet and that it is free of harmful contaminants.
The best way to get the nutrition you need is with a healthy diet with a balance of colorful vegetables, quality protein, whole grains and healthy fats. In addition, these foods provide fiber which is very important for a healthy gut. Your doctor and registered dietitian can help you decide if you need a multivitamin based on a review of your recent lab results and other risk factors.
Supplements are best taken with a grain of salt and an educated view of the facts. There’s a reason that food is called ‘real’ food. Multivitamins can be a useful safety net if you have restrictions but they are not suitable for everyone in senior living Lakewood.
