Maintaining overall health is very important as women approach the middle age years. Body chemistry changes with age. There are steps women can take to maintain their health. One such step is to introduce supplements of vitamins and minerals that are depleted by age, stress, and the demands of managing family and home. With so many choices out there, how do you know which supplements for women are best to use? Following is a list of some of the most important ones in improving and maintaining your health.
Magnesium
One health aid that can address many of the health issues women have is magnesium. It is found as a supplement but is also quite popular as a magnesium drink. You can use this not only to boost energy but also to relieve stress. Magnesium is also helpful in fighting sleeplessness and constipation. it has been shown to help with restful sleep. In addition, magnesium can contribute to women's health by helping to regulate the body’s levels of calcium and potassium, whose benefits are listed below.
Calcium
Calcium is important for bone health and making sure you have sufficient levels can keep osteoporosis at bay. Calcium is also beneficial for heart and muscle health, and for keeping blood cells functioning normally.
Potassium
Potassium is important for the regulation of blood pressure. Keeping blood pressure levels balanced can help prevent strokes. Although potassium is important, women should not take supplements unless their physician has recommended it. The best advice for women’s health is to have your potassium levels checked to see if you have recommended levels in your bloodstream already.
B Vitamins
The B vitamins include B1 - thiamine, B2 - riboflavin, B3 - niacin, B5 - pantothenic acid, B6 - pyridoxine, B12 - cobalamin, and biotin. The B vitamins are good for heart health, energy, skin, and hair. Although these vitamins are found naturally in whole grain, fruits, and vegetables, the B vitamins are more slowly absorbed with age. A supplement is a good idea past the age of 40.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is extremely important as women age, as it works against conditions that are more likely to occur with age. Low levels of Vitamin D have been associated with diabetes, heart disease, multiple sclerosis, breast and colorectal cancers in women’s later years. Calcium absorption is also strengthened by the presence of healthy levels of this vitamin.
Omega-3s
Commonly found in fish, omega-3 fatty acids help with brain function and heart health. They help reduce triglycerides, reducing the risk of heart disease. They also act as anti-inflammatories, helping with joint health. Finally, they boost brain functioning and thus help keep cognitive abilities sharp. Because our bodies do not produce these naturally, if women are not eating enough fish, a supplement is recommended.
How do you know if you need a supplement? The best idea is to see your physician and discuss your diet, daily routines, and health history with him or her. A healthy diet with a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, dairy, and meat will help you keep balance, too. The worst thing you can do about your health as you age is nothing. Women need change with the stages of life and being middle aged is no time to ignore your overall health.
Written by Natalie Bracco for Working Mother and legally licensed through the Matcha publisher network. Please direct all licensing questions to legal@getmatcha.com.
