Aging comes with both good and bad tidings. One of the major fears associated with aging is a deteriorating immune system. This is why an increasing number of seniors are turning to various supplements to stay healthy. You may be wondering if it’s safe for you or your loved ones to take these products. Below, we’ll go over seven things you need to know about supplements for seniors so that you can make an informed decision on whether they are right for you.
Supplements Don’t Substitute For Healthy Meals
One of the biggest misconceptions about supplements is replacing healthy meals. This simply isn’t true, as supplements are meant to be used alongside a balanced diet, not as a replacement for it.
If you don’t eat well, taking supplements may do more harm than good. If you’re taking care of the elderly, it is essential that you keep them on a healthy diet besides offering them supplements.
Be Wary Of Excessive Supplement Use
Too many vitamins and minerals can be harmful, especially for seniors. For example, too much vitamin A can lead to liver damage, while too much iron can cause organ failure. It’s important to talk to your doctor before starting any supplements and closely monitor elderly patients’ supplement intake.
Taste Is A Factor
When it comes to supplements, taste is a significant factor. Many elderly people have trouble swallowing pills, and others simply don’t like how certain supplements taste. This can be a challenge for getting seniors to take their medications.
Luckily, there are now many different supplements available in liquid and chewable form. For seniors who exercise, there are pre-workout supplements with enhanced taste that can be a perfect fit.
Watch For Drug Interactions
Another thing to watch for when giving supplements to seniors is drug interactions. Some medications can interact with certain supplements, so it’s essential to monitor all of the elderly patient’s medications closely. This includes both prescription and over-the-counter drugs.
If you or your senior relative is taking CBD along with the supplements, you should ensure the supplements in question are safe for use with CBD. This is important because some supplements don’t work well with CBD.
If you notice any side effects after starting on supplementation, you can talk to your doctor about changing medications or discontinuing the one interacting poorly with supplements.
Supplements Don’t Work The Same Way For Everyone
Just like medication, supplements don’t work the same way for everyone. Some people will experience great results from taking a certain supplement, while others might not see any benefits at all.
It’s important to be patient and keep track of how you’re feeling when starting on a new supplement regime. Also, some people may experience side effects from using specific supplements, while others might experience nothing.
The bottom line is that it’s important to pay attention and communicate with your doctor if you’re having any changes in health. To minimize side effects, ensure you conduct in-depth consultation before settling for the best supplements for you or your elderly relative.
