By Joe Smulevitz, C.H., M.H.
Seniors who take certain dietary supplements may significantly improve their health resulting in reduced hospitalizations and physicians’ visits.
The last few years have seen an increase in unbiased documented studies of dietary supplements to help seniors differentiate between supplements that work and supplements that do not work. Despite the mounting evidence of the health benefits of certain dietary supplements, many seniors do not seek medical advice about supplementation.
Uses based on scientific evidence have shown the following dietary supplements may help promote health, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases in seniors.
Research indicates that three of the B vitamins, (folate, also known as folic acid, B-6 and B-12), lower blood levels of homocysteine, (an amino acid) in the blood. Elevated homocysteine levels may directly injure the arteries and promote the formation of blood clots. Homocysteine levels increase with age, especially after menopause, and can be hereditary. Studies have shown that seniors with low blood levels of folate, and B12 have increased risk of developing Alzheimer’s.
One of the most important supplements for seniors to consider is omega-3 fatty acids. The (FDA) Food and Drug Administration issued a qualified health claim in 2000 acknowledging that a diet rich in eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) omega-3 fatty acids, may reduce the risk of coronary heart disease. Health claims show a correlation between a substance and a disease or health related condition substantiated by documented evidence. EPA and DHA, omega-3 fatty acids, are usually found in oily cold-water fish such as salmon, tuna, mackerel and herring.
The FDA issued a qualified health claim for two dietary fibers, beta glucan and psyllium, both of which are recognized as an effective way to lower blood cholesterol. Dietary fibers seem to lower cholesterol levels by binding bile acids and cholesterol in the intestines, thereby helping to hinder their assimilation. Psyllium is derived from the husks of the seeds of Plantago ovata, and beta glucan is an active ingredient in oat soluble fiber.
Other dietary supplements that research has indicated may benefit seniors include: Vitamin C, vitamin E, and minerals like zinc, and selenium for their antioxidant qualities. Antioxidants are natural substances that protect cells from damage by free radicals, which are highly reactive molecules, having the ability of damaging tissues and cells. Free radicals may speed up the aging process, and can contribute to an increased risk of cancer, and heart disease.
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is another important antioxidant that resembles vitamin E. CoQ10 is found in living cells throughout the body, and is vital for the functioning of cells. CoQ10 levels are believed to decrease with age, and be lowered with chronic disease. Some prescription drugs, such as statins (cholesterol reducing medications), may decrease levels of CoQ10.
Lutein and Lycopene are two carotenoids (group of pigments found naturally in plants) that possess significant antioxidant properties that may benefit seniors. Lutein appears to offer protection against mascular degeneration, a major contributor of blindness in older individuals. Lycopene may protect against cancer of the prostate, lungs, and stomach.
Vitamin D is recognized as a crucial nutrient in preventing many age-related diseases. Vitamin D and calcium increases bone mineral density, helping combat bone fractures and osteoporosis, especially in the elderly. Vitamin D and magnesium, helps the body absorb calcium. Magnesium, by itself, is an important mineral for heart health. It thins the blood, keeps the platelets from sticking together, and relaxes the blood vessels.
Melatonin is a hormone, produced by the pineal gland in the brain from the amino acid tryptophan. Studies have shown that melatonin supplementation has been found to help induce sleep in the elderly, who typically have low melatonin levels.
Glucosamine is a natural compound that is found in healthy cartilage. Many seniors lose the ability to manufacture adequate amounts of glucosamine. Supplementation with glucosamine may help in treating osteoarthritis of various joints of the body.
Certain herbs may help protect against age-related conditions: These herbs include valerian; to improve the quality of sleep and reduce the time it takes to fall asleep. Gingko for increased blood flow to the brain that may improve memory, alertness, and the ability to concentrate. Milk thistle for improved liver function. Hawthorn is used to treat cardiovascular disorders. Garlic to help lower cholesterol. Echinacea is useful for the treatment of upper respiratory tract infections, and immune system stimulation. Cranberry is useful in the prevention of urinary tract infection. Horse chestnut for chronic venous insufficiency, which includes leg swelling, varicose veins, leg pain, and skin ulcers. Pygeum and saw palmetto, they both help to reduce symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia.
Author Bio: Joe Smulevitz is a Chartered Herbalist, a Master Herbalist, a nutritional researcher, and author of numerous health articles.