Grow Old Gracefully With the Help of These Supplements

There are some great things that tend to come along with growing older: wisdom, patience, grace. Then, there are those less wonderful things. Stiff joints, achy muscles, and lagging energy levels. The right nutritional supplements can help you minimize the downsides so you can embrace the benefits that come with age.
Probiotics
Gut health and its effects on the rest of your overall health and wellness have become a hot topic lately. Probiotics are basically bacteria that take up residence in your intestines when you consume them. They add to the millions of other microorganisms that make up your gut microbiome.
A healthy gut has been linked to lower levels of chronic inflammation and reduced risk for many chronic health conditions. It is becoming a key component of healthcare research and practice.
There are many types of probiotics you can take, including capsules and fortified or fermented foods. Le-Vel Thrive reviews provide a glimpse into how adding probiotics along with other supplements can be transformative for many people.
Turmeric
This brilliant yellow spice is a nutritional powerhouse. It contains curcumin, which is touted for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. From helping you avoid heart disease to giving a boost to cognitive function, the compound is overflowing with health benefits that can help you age with less pain and disease.
Find ways to include turmeric in your regular cooking. Try out new curry recipes or add a dash to a green smoothie for an added anti-inflammatory boost.
Vitamin D
The importance of vitamin D for aging adults has long been linked to bone health. Once converted into a usable form by the liver, it plays a vital role in bone formation and mineralization of calcium. Yet, new research has shown that it may play a bigger role in other processes. Receptors for the vitamin have been found within the endocrine, cardiovascular, and nervous systems. This points to a possible connection between vitamin D and cognitive decline, heart disease, diabetes, and other age-related disorders.
Have your vitamin levels checked at your annual physical exam. If your doctor notices any deficiencies, talk to her about adding a supplement or other ways to boost the amount of vitamin D in your system. If you are at risk of osteoporosis or other bone loss disorders, talk to your doctor about whether or not you need to supplement your vitamin D levels.
Calcium
Declining calcium levels contribute to bone loss and increase the risk of fractures occurring with falls in older adults. There is some debate about how much calcium you should be getting to maintain healthy bones. While the recommendation has long been to get 1,000 milligrams of the mineral a day, new research is showing that World Health Organization guidelines of around 500 mg are probably sufficient for most healthy adults. Of course, if you already have bone loss or are at increased risk for it, you should discuss your concerns with your health care provider and follow her recommendations for supplementing calcium levels.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
These fatty acids are found in high levels in fatty fish and some types of nuts. They have been linked to cognitive and cardiovascular health. There is also some indication that Omega-3 fatty acids are directly linked to a lower incidence of physical disease and deterioration associated with aging. Many people report lower levels of joint pain and stiffness after adding a fish oil supplement to their daily routine.
Glucosamine and Chondroitin
This combination has been a staple for joint care and health for many years. Working together, Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfates have been linked to less pain and wear from osteoarthritis. While new research is drawing that connection into question, the combination is generally considered safe for adults who want to give it a try.
While you should try to get as many nutrients as possible from whole food sources, there are times when supplements can be a huge help. Talk to your doctor about any medications you are planning to add, even over the counter vitamins and supplements, to be sure they are safe for you.