As we age, our minds’ and bodies’ needs change. In order to stay healthy as we age, certain habits should be adapted.
The best way to keep healthy and gracious aging is to make your diet as healthy as possible. Eating certain foods can help reduce the risks of diseases that come with age, like neurological conditions, heart problems, and such.
Eating a balanced, healthy diet, and moving your body according to your possibilities can get tricky with old age. Depending on where you live, a fair amount of food today does not contain enough of the nutrient value needed as you age. The best allies to your healthy aging process are various supplements. Read below for what you should be taking to keep a healthy mind and body as you age. Longevity Live Paid Content.
Protein
As we age, our muscles tend to shrink and reduce. This is why it is important to keep your protein intake in healthy amounts. Sometimes elderly people have issues with eating meat, for example, which is the primary food source of protein.
This is problematic because they are not able to take their daily dose of protein from food only. So, supplementation can be a solution. Make sure you consult your health provider before taking protein supplements, especially if you are having issues with your urinary tract.
Calcium
Bones go brittle with age, so the next critical intake to track is our calcium doses. Our bone density and structure change over the years, and women have higher risks of developing conditions like osteoporosis. To lower this risk, it is essential to keep track of calcium intake.
As we age, our calcium levels naturally drop, so a great supplement option for aging people is definitely something with calcium in it. Along with taking more foods that naturally contain calcium, such as milk, taking calcium supplements is great to help with vitamin D absorption as well.
Calcium is also great for gentlemen’s health, as it belongs in the prostate supplement group.
Omega-3 fatty acids
These amazing fatty acids protect our brains from risks of diseases such as Alzheimer’s. Fatty fish are a natural source of omega-3 acids, and there are numerous supplements based on that. Fish oil capsules and such are some of the most common types of omega-3 supplements.
These are great options for people who do not like fish or are not including it in their diet as often as they should.
Collagen and antioxidants
Collagen is not just about the outside look of our skin, hair, and nails. This protein strengthens skin and hair from the inside out, making them healthier in the longer run. Besides the beauty factor, collagen also plays a huge role in bone health.
As for antioxidants, supplementation is said to be a great option as well. Antioxidants are commonly found in fresh fruits and vegetables, but the supplements offer concentrated dosages, that could not be achieved with diet only.
Some of the most popular antioxidants are selenium and vitamins A, C, and E. They fight free radicals in our bodies and help reduce the negative impact of system byproducts, and therefore lower the risks of cancer and other diseases.
Apart from being one of the antioxidant supplements, vitamin C is known as a top ingredient in the beauty industry, and it is beneficial to use creams and serums based on it. Look for the best vitamin C creams and serums for even healthier skin.
Vitamins from the B group
Vitamins from the B group, positively impact different areas of health. They are good for the brain and memory, and overall energy levels, and they also have an impact on our heart health. Studies have shown that lower levels of vitamins from the B group can be connected to risks of developing heart conditions, and various types of cognitive dysfunction.
Supplementation in a form of B – complex (that includes around 8 vitamins from the B group) is also advised for vegans and vegetarians, especially during older age, as they do not get recommended daily doses from the food.
Closing thoughts
Ideally it’s best to get vitamins and minerals from food. However, the quality of food today varies all over and also as we age our bodies need more specific support.
Also any health and supplementation plan is not complete without ensuring you are getting enough daily exercise. This is very important to maintaining good health and longevity.
Note: The advice in this post is general and is not intended to substitute advice you receive from a medical professional. Also before you take any supplements, and especially if you are already on therapeutic substances, please consult your GP.