We all know that getting enough vitamins and minerals in our daily life is important but it is even more so for seniors. The aging process does not allow our bodies to regenerate as quickly or as thoroughly as when we are younger. According to Discovery Health, the recommended requirement of vitamin C is 90 milligrams a day, and for women, it is 75 milligrams daily. There is even some evidence to suggest that 200 milligrams a day would provide the best protection.
Vitamin C is an antioxidant that protects our bodies from free radical damage to DNA. Damage to our DNA is what sets up the environment for normal cells to turn into cancerous cells. Antioxidants have been shown to slow down brain aging and to help prevent disease. As there are many diseases that seniors become more susceptible to as they age, taking vitamin C would be beneficial. Vitamin C helps to regulate cholesterol levels in the blood, which in turn keeps hearts healthy. Studies have indicated that it may protect against cancers of the esophagus, stomach, pancreas, breast, and lung as well as others. There is research to indicate vitamin C and vitamin E may reduce the chance of Alzheimer’s.
One of the good things about vitamin C is that it is readily available and found in so many of our foods. Dark leafy green vegetables, winter squash, broccoli, citrus fruits, and berries are just a few examples of foods that are good sources of vitamin C. Eating vitamin C rich foods raw, lightly steamed, or micro-waved will help to preserve the nutrients.
* This is for informational purposes only. Be sure and check with your doctor or health care provider about any dietary questions or other health concerns.
Bethesda Gardens Assisted Living, Phoenix, AZ is an assisted living and short term care community. Many seniors struggle with arthritis but being well informed can help make treating and coping with the disease easier. Please check out our blog with some up-to-date information on thelatest findings in arthritis research.
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