Valuable Vitamins For Seniors

Seniors, especially seniors that live alone are prone to nutritional and vitamin shortages because they often do not eat regularly and are malnourished. Poor appetite can be attributed to medications they are on, lack of availability of nutritional foods, and intestinal disorders. Their body may not absorb the vitamins properly they are consuming. Seniors are encouraged to take a good liquid multivitamin.

Antioxidants are being studied to see what role they play in the prevention and treatment of many chronic diseases. The diseases range from asthma, cancer, and cardiovascular disease. Antioxidants protect the body’s cells by scavenging free radicals and stopping lipid peroxidation chain reactions. These chain reactions may damage our genetic blueprint.

What are free radicals? There is a whole chemical explanation for the process but, simply put, a free radical is a result of the oxidation of a cell and decrease of electrons. This always happens in pairs, for example, when one is oxidized the other half of the pair is reduced. When one molecule is oxidized, it may cause them to become unstable and develop into free radicals. So, a free radical is an unpaired electron that creates a chain reaction that continues producing free radicals that may damage our body.

Some oxidative work is necessary, but an excess of free radicals and damage to cells. Seniors, because of their improper nutritional habits are prone to free radical damage. That is why it is important for them to receive an acceptable supply of antioxidants. Antioxidants are found in Vitamin B, C, E and other carotenoids. The earlier antioxidants are included in our diet, the less damage will be done. It’s preferable to start in childhood, but starting any time in life is better than not starting them at all.

Vitamin E and beta-carotene have been proved to reduce thickening of the walls of the blood vessels, and Vitamin C has been known to reduce high blood pressure. These two vitamins combined will reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular disease. Beta-carotene from fruits and vegetables as well as vitamin E are essential in reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease but you should be careful to avoid taking synthetic beta-carotene. Vitamins E and C are important for preserving good eye function and offer some protection from asthma.

Seniors are especially prone to problems because they often do not eat a balanced diet. They need a regular amount of antioxidants included in supplements to protect them from the damage of free radicals. Seniors may be eligible for special programs to ensure they are eating properly, but they also need a good multivitamin to be sure they are getting all the nutrients they need. Check your phone book for Senior Resources in your area if you are a senior or have a family member that needs nutritional meals. Meals on Wheels, an organization in my area supplies two meals a day to seniors who qualify. This may still not be an acceptable supply of their nutritional needs. A liquid multivitamin is recommended for senior citizens.