SENIORS AND SUPPLEMENTS Annie Gallagher
Vehik Nazaryan UMD-College Park Dietetic Interns
OVERVIEW
What is a Dietary Supplement?
Should I take a Dietary Supplement?
Important Nutrients as You Age Vitamin B12 Vitamin D Calcium How to Get These Nutrients Food Sources
AS WE AGE…
Our bones get weaker Our skin loses its elasticity and ability to absorb Vitamin D through sun Our stomach produces less acid potential Vitamin B12 deficiency
WHAT IS A DIETARY SUPPLEMENT ? 

Synthetic or natural substances which can be purchased as pills, tablets, capsules, wafers, powders, or liquids. These supplements claim to contain nutrients with specific health benefits
QUESTIONS TO ASK YOURSELF…
Do you need one? Ask yourself why you think you might want to take a dietary supplement. Are you concerned about getting enough nutrients? Is a friend, a neighbor, or someone on a commercial suggesting you take one?
B12
As we age, the acid in our stomach that breaks down Vitamin B12 begins to decrease.
Vitamin B12 is important in Nerve function Red blood cell production Metabolizing fats and proteins
B12 Food
Sources
Animal products Fortified foods such as breakfast cereals
VITAMIN D
Low blood levels of Vitamin D are common Decreased dietary intake Diminished sunlight exposure Reduced skin thickness Impaired intestinal absorption
VITAMIN D
In addition to being produced in the skin, Vitamin D can be obtained from Vitamin D containing products like egg, fatty fish Vitamin D fortified foods Multivitamins
CALCIUM
Calcium is a mineral found in many foods Efficiency of calcium absorption decreases as people age
The body needs calcium to maintain strong bones For muscles to move For nerves to carry messages
FOOD SOURCES OF CALCIUM Calcium is found in many foods such as:
Dairy products Dark leafy greens Fish with soft bones Calcium fortified foods
Read the Nutrition Facts Label!
FOOD VS SUPPLEMENTS?
Supplements may be
Costly, harmful or not helpful.
Some supplements can impact the function of medicines you may already be taking
You should talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian for advice
FOOD VS SUPPLEMENTS? 
Eating a variety of healthy foods is the best way to get the nutrients you need
What Are Your Questions???