Vitamin D is naturally present in some foods and is an umbrella term for a group of fat-soluble hormones. It can be taken as a dietary supplement and is found naturally in foods and sunshine. Of course, you have to be careful with that sunshine method because the sun’s rays can also have detrimental effects. Regardless, vitamin D for seniors is an absolute must.
Natural Sources of Vitamin D
Granted, you can take a vitamin supplement. But you can also find it naturally in numerous food sources. Here are some of them:
- Vitamin D fortified milk
- Mushrooms
- Fish oil and fish
- Sunlight
As much as possible, make sure that your healthy meal plans include vitamin D.
Vitamin D May Be Lowered by Some Medications
Your vitamin levels could be lowered by certain over-the-counter medications and prescribed medications. Some of these can include the following:
- Weight loss drugs
- Seizure medication
- Cholesterol lowering medicines
- Steroids
- Laxatives
Vitamin D Is Not Needed in Extreme Amounts
To reap the many health benefits of this vitamin, it is important that you don’t take it in excess. For adults 50 years of age and older, the recommended daily dosage is approximately 15 mcg/600 IU. For elderly adults, the recommended dose of this vitamin could be increased to around 20 mcg/800 IU.
You may be wondering if there such a thing as an overdose. Over time, some adverse health effects may be experienced by taking vitamins in excessive amounts. The chance of this happening, however, isn’t very high.
Vitamin D Can Improve Your Mood
Enzymes are deactivated and activated in the brain by this vitamin. That means that sleepiness and depression can be experienced by someone with vitamin D deficiency. Additionally, brain related disorders like multiple sclerosis, dementia, and Parkinson’s disease have also been associated with low levels of vitamin D.
Enjoy a Healthier Life
Many bodily functions are facilitated by vitamin D. Firstly, it helps in the absorption of calcium, which is important for healthy skin, teeth, and bones. To reduce a buildup of harmful plaque in the body and promote cell growth, the anti-inflammatory properties of this vitamin come into play. Studies have shown that this vitamin can also enable muscle growth and strengthen immune function.
The following are health improvements courtesy of this vitamin:
- Oral health
- Skin health
- Bone health
- Reduce cancer risks
- Immune response improvement
If you’ve considered taking vitamin supplements, check with your physician first to make sure there are no contraindications with any other medications you may already be taking. If you are experiencing depression or mood changes, cramps or aches, muscle weakness, bone pain, or excessive fatigue, you might be lacking in this vitamin.
Here’s the best piece of advice: Speak with a nutritionist or your doctor to see if vitamin D is something you need more of in your diet.
