Healthy Living Through Steady Nutrients
Taking care of an elderly loved one is perhaps one of the hardest things you will ever have to do. Not only are they frail and often short when things do not go their way, their bodies are more sensitive to a lot of things. A simple UTI could be a minor inconvenience for you, but for them, it can be something that throws off not only their body, but their mind. The same can be said for any minor vitamin deficiency. Therefore, they rely on healthy living through steady nutrients and it is something we could all learn from doing.
What Are Vitamin Supplements?
Today, we hear a lot about vitamin supplements. You can get anything from vitamins, to minerals, herbals, enzymes, and amino acids, as well as a variety of other things. Each of these supplements, can help you feel better in ways. For instance, if you take melatonin, you should be able to achieve a more restful sleep. Garlic pills can help your blood. Fish oils can help a variety of other things. Each supplement has a purpose. Overall, most supplements are safe to take. The vitamins A, E, D, C, and folic acid supplements can help you ward off diseases. However, it can become unsafe for you if you take too much. The same is true for potassium. Your body requires a certain amount of it. Too much can cause you issues and too little can also be deadly.
Are Vitamin Supplements Safe for Elders?
One thing you have to remember before giving an elderly loved one supplements is that less is more. Most people can get enough vitamins if they have a healthy diet, but there are situations where they may need a little extra help. For instance, a lot of cereal contains the vitamin B12. This is great, but many elders cannot absorb it the way that they did when they were younger. In order to keep their blood and nerves healthy, their doctor may recommend that they take a supplement. Calcium is also in a lot of foods, but elders need more. If their bones are growing weaker, their doctor may suggest a supplement. Chromium Citrate is not recommended in higher doses for senior citizens, but it is important that they have some of the vitamin in their system. However, glucose is an issue for many older people and chromium citrate can cause more damage than good for them.
Pros and Cons of Supplements
Supplements are designed to be a supplement to help you stay healthy. If used right, they can ensure that you have the energy and stamina required to live a happy and long life. The problem is, there is also a downside to them if you are unsure of how to use them the right way. You should always seek out your doctor’s recommendations before you start supplementing, especially if you are over the age of 60 to ensure that you are not shortening your life by doing something you believed would prolong it. Simply talk to your doctor to have them help you decide on the pros and cons of supplements for your situation.