Vitamins and minerals are essential keys to maintaining good health, especially for seniors. As the body ages, it gradually loses its ability to absorb vitamins and minerals from the food that is consumed. St. Bernardine Care Providers in Apple Valley recommends supplements for seniors as a necessary part of the well-balanced diet.
Iron
Iron is one of the most important minerals that the body needs. Iron is essential for the red blood cells to do their job, which is to carry oxygen from the lungs to all the tissue in the body. As the red blood cells are carrying the oxygen to the tissue, they pick up the carbon dioxide in the body. When the red blood cells return to the lungs they trade the carbon dioxide for more oxygen molecules, then the process repeats itself.
When the body does not have enough iron, a condition known as iron deficiency develops. If untreated, it can further develop into a disease called anemia.The symptoms of both iron deficiency and anemia are similar – however, anemia symptoms are more severe. Some of the symptoms include the following:
- Weakness
- Fatigue
- Irregular heart beats / chest pain
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Pale skin
- Cold hands and feet
If seniors experience any of these symptoms, medical care is recommended because there are other conditions that share similar symptoms. For example, bleeding ulcers, complications from surgery, a traumatic injury, and some chronic diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis are all possible concerns.
Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 is an essential vitamin that the body needs to function properly. Vitamin B12 helps keep the body’s cells and nerves healthy. Vitamin B12 plays a major role in the body’s DNA synthesis and the division of cells.
Vitamin B12 is a crucial nutrient for all of the body’s cells, particularly the cells located in the spinal cord and brain. If there is a vitamin B12 deficiency, seniors may experience some of the following symptoms:
- Weakness
- Fatigue
- Irregular heartbeat
- Shortness of breath
- Confusion
- Agitation
- Hallucinations
Medical care is highly advised if any of these symptoms is experienced.
Staying Proactive
As seniors age, vitamins and mineral supplements will help keep the body healthier. It is important that these vitamins and minerals are taken appropriately along with a healthy diet and regular exercise. Iron and vitamin B12 supplements allow seniors to staying healthy and reap the benefits of supplementation while avoiding unnecessary nutrient deficiencies.
St. Bernardine Care Providers in the Southern California High Desert are devoted to helping seniors live a healthy lifestyle.
