The aging process naturally introduces some vulnerabilities to the body, such as the increased risk of disease. Taking in the right nutrients can help mitigate these risks. Here is a quick look at how aging affects the body, and five supplements that can best benefit aging individuals.
How Aging Affects The Body
For men and women over 50, the ongoing process of aging has a multiplicity of effects on the body. These changes are internal and external, and they involve increased risk of multiple types of disease. Men and women over 50 should be aware of these changes and the risks that they can entail, as well as how nutrient intake can help tamp down these effects of aging.
The effects of aging can include changes to the eyes and ears, which can affect the senses: thinning of the skin, causing wrinkles; cognitive changes and decline; decline in bone and muscle strength; and changes in the cardiovascular system, which can lead to increased risk of hypertension and other diseases. All of these should be considered, and they can all be helped by a conscientious approach to nutrition.
Supplements for Good Health While Aging
Vitamin and nutrient intake has a huge influence on the health of an aging individual. These five vitamins and nutrients each can provide significant benefits for men and women as they age, by making up for deficiencies and reducing the risk of various diseases and effects of aging.
Calcium is a mineral that's crucial for bone formation and strength. Adequate calcium intake is very important for men and women over age 50. Without enough calcium, older folks are at risk for osteoporosis. This is especially true for postmenopausal women. Calcium is best absorbed by the body when taken alongside Vitamin D. Together, these two substances can reduce a person's risk of bone fractures. Supplementing with calcium can also reduce the risk of macular degeneration.
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a natural bodily substance that is essential for bodily production of ATP, the primary source of cellular energy. It's also a strong antioxidant, working to prevent oxidative stress that disrupts DNA and other biological processes. The body's production of CoQ10 tends to decline with age, which can cause CoQ10 deficiency. This contributes to weariness, as well as increased risk of heart disease and neurological disorders. Supplementing with CoQ10 can make up for this deficiency and reduce these risks, and benefit aging skin as well.
Collagen is a structural protein that is integral to the structure and health of your skin. The body's production of collagen naturally declines as part of the aging process, which contributes to the formation of wrinkles and sagging skin. Taking a collagen supplement can reduce these visible signs of aging. Collagen is also integral to your joints; supplementing with it can benefit aging joints, bones, and muscles.
Resveratrol is a natural substance that has been shown to affect the body in multiple ways that slow the aging process. A growing number of studies show that resveratrol can extend a person's lifespan. It helps the body by suppressing oxidative stress, inhibiting inflammation, and regulating mitochondrial function. As a result, it can help prevent various diseases including neurodegenerative disease, cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, and more.
Vitamin B12 is a crucial vitamin, and one that older adults are often deficient in, due to decreased bodily absorption. Supplementing with B12 could benefit elderly individuals who have dementia, since B12 deficiency is associated with cognitive impairment. It could affect depression, as well. Vitamin B12 is also necessary for red and white blood cell health. B12 deficiency can contribute to low energy levels and anemia.
If you or your loved ones are over 50, then nutrition should be a high priority. Consider how the above supplements can help maintain your good health, and reduce the risk of injury, cognitive decline, and disease. It is recommended that you talk to your healthcare provider before taking a supplement for the first time.