Ample vitamin D intake is crucial for people who want to live a long and healthy life. It helps build strong bones and fight off infections, but now, scientists are associating the drug with fewer falls in senior citizens.
According to research published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, seniors whose daily vitamin D intake was around 30 ng/mL were much less likely to suffer a fall or fracture than those who had low vitamin D levels.
“In studies that achieved average serum levels greater than 25 ng/mL, falls and fracture rates were significantly reduced,” said James Judge, MD. “The impact on fractures is most likely due to the reduction in falls. In older adults, the impact of vitamin D on bone density is very small, while the impact on falls is measurable.”
Finding new ways to keep seniors safe has been a top priority for hospitals in recent years. According to previous research, half of all nursing home residents over the age of 65 suffer at least one fall a year. Falls are the leading cause of fractures among senior citizens, and researchers hope the findings stress the importance of regular vitamin D intake in seniors.
Where Can I Find Vitamin D?
Vitamin D is found all around us, but some of the more common places our body gets its daily dose from include:
- Milk
- Fortified Foods
- Fish
- Supplements
- Sunlight
Our bodies naturally produce vitamin D when we are exposed to sunlight, but that doesn’t mean you should haul Grandpa to the beach for a long day in the sun. As our bodies age, they become less efficient at turning sunlight into vitamin D. To make up for this, seniors need to ensure they are getting plenty of vitamin D through the foods they are eating, or through dietary supplements.
“Vitamin D supplementation weekly, biweekly, monthly and up to every 3 months is OK,” said Dr. Judge. “To maximize absorption, the vitamin D supplements should be taken with meals that provide some fat or oils.
Dr. Silverman comments
It can be tough to measure the exact effects of vitamin D, but there is no doubt that it has plenty of positive benefits. Vitamin D helps you build strong bones and muscles, and it helps you heal after surgery.
As you get older, make sure you’re getting the daily recommended amount of vitamin D. Your body will thank you.
Related source: Medscape
