The Vitamins You Should Be Taking In Your 70s
Our body goes through many changes as we age. It is crucial to stay as healthy as possible as we get older to prevent health issues. One of the ways you can improve your health in your 70s is to take certain vitamins. According to The Healthy, calcium and vitamin D are both useful supplements to take when you enter this stage in your life. "We need calcium for bone and muscle growth, but it doesn't get absorbed as well without vitamin D," said Stephanie Schiff, RDN, a nutritionist at Northwell Health's Huntington Hospital in Huntington, New York.
Seniors are at risk of developing osteoporosis, which refers to when the bones begin to break down and get weaker. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, one of the best ways to reduce your risk of osteoporosis is to get enough calcium and vitamin D in your diet. While getting these nutrients from food is always ideal, taking a supplement can be beneficial for people who struggle to eat enough foods that contain these vitamins. Seniors tend to eat less food at a time as they get older, which can lead to nutrient deficiencies. Talk to your doctor about taking a calcium and/or vitamin D supplement if you are concerned about your intake.
Other vitamins that are beneficial in your 70s
According to The Healthy, you'll also want to make sure you're getting enough omega-3 fatty acids as you age. Your body cannot produce these essential fatty acids on its own, so they must be consumed through food and/or supplements (via National Institutes of Health). These nutrients reduce your risk of heart disease, heart attack, and stroke (via Verywell Health). They can also provide arthritis relief and help people with dementia, which are two health conditions that often occur in old age.
Another vitamin to consider taking in your 70s is vitamin B12. "As you get older, it's harder for your body to make and use B12, and supplements may be needed," said Stephanie Schiff, RDN. This vitamin is essential for the formation of red blood cells, nerve function, and the production of DNA (via Mayo Clinic). A deficiency in vitamin B12 can cause anemia, weakness, fatigue, and even nerve damage. It is important to talk to your doctor before you begin taking any supplements, as this industry is not regulated by the FDA. Your doctor can figure out which supplements you should be taking and help you find reputable brands that won't cause you any harm.