5 key vitamins people over 60 need for better health
Most important vitamins for adults over 60 (photo: Freepik)
After the age of 60, the body requires special support. Five vitamins have been identified that help strengthen the immune system, support bones and the heart, and maintain mental clarity and vitality, Eating Well reports.
Vitamin D
For many older adults, sun exposure may not be enough to maintain stable vitamin D levels. This is because, with age, the body becomes less efficient at synthesizing vitamin D from sunlight.
The journal Nutrients notes that maintaining optimal vitamin D levels is important not only for bone health and immunity but may also help regulate blood sugar levels and support heart health. Few foods provide enough vitamin D, and excessive sun exposure can be harmful. Therefore, supplementation is an effective way to maintain healthy levels.
Vitamin B12
Getting enough vitamin B12 after 60 is not always easy. With age, the body’s ability to absorb vitamin B12 naturally decreases due to reduced stomach acid production and changes in the gastrointestinal tract.
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), vitamin B12 is crucial for supporting cognitive function, energy levels, nerve health, and overall vitality. It helps produce red blood cells and maintain the myelin sheath that protects nerve cells.
A deficiency can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, memory problems, and even nerve damage.
Omega-3 fatty acids
Cureus notes that to stay healthy and energized after 60, it is worth increasing omega-3 fatty acid intake. Omega-3 supplements provide high levels of EPA and DHA, which support brain health with age.
In particular, omega-3s can help improve memory and cognitive functions, potentially reducing age-related cognitive decline.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is an essential nutrient for older adults, supporting multiple aspects of health, including immune function, skin health, and overall vitality.
According to the NIH, the immune system becomes less effective with age, making the body more vulnerable to infections. In addition, vitamin C is necessary for collagen production, which supports skin elasticity and wound healing.
It also has antioxidant properties, protecting cells from oxidative stress that increases the risk of age-related diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and neurodegenerative disorders.
Calcium
Calcium is important not only for building strong bones in youth but also remains just as vital with age. However, the body’s ability to absorb it from food can decrease, increasing the risk of bone loss and fractures.
The journal Nutrients explained that people over 60 often need more calcium to maintain bone health and prevent deficiency.
For better absorption and effectiveness, calcium supplements are often combined with vitamin D and vitamin K2.
This material is for informational purposes only and should not be used for medical diagnosis or self-treatment. Our goal is to provide readers with accurate information about symptoms, causes, and methods of detecting diseases. RBС-Ukraine is not responsible for any diagnoses that readers may make based on materials from the resource. We do not recommend self-treatment and advise consulting a doctor in case of any health concerns.
