Vitamin D is crucial for those aged 50+. Each year in the UK about 1 in 6 adults are deficient in it. The scary part is, the number of older adults who are deficient almost doubles in the winter. In fact, nearly 50% of the aging population in the UK is unaware of the Government’s recommendation for vitamin D supplements in the autumn and winter months, due to lack of sunlight.
With the last few years seeing many stuck indoors whether because of isolating or cocooning due to the pandemic, there is a very real possibility that they are lacking in vitamin D.
What is vitamin D?
Sometimes referred to as the ”sunshine vitamin” because it’s actually produced in your skin when its exposed to sunlight. This vitamin has many important roles to play within your body. Without it, you are at risk of developing bone abnormalities such as fragile bones (Osteoporosis) and soft bones (Osteomalacia).
Vitamin D recommended daily amount (RDA):
- 19- 50 years of age – 15 micrograms per day
- 51-70 years of age – 15 micrograms per day
- 70+ years of age – 20 micrograms per day
Health benefits of vitamin D:
- Aids in the absorption of calcium – helping you to form strong bones and teeth.
- Support your immune system, brain and nervous system health.
- Can help reduce the likelihood of developing cold and flu.
- Supports lung function and heart health.
- Maintains normal blood levels of calcium.
Sadly, as we all know, that sun is still a bit away so that makes it a little difficult to catch a few rays to meet our needs. The great news is that there are many other good sources for vitamin D such as:
- Cheese – 0.4 micrograms per service – 42g
- Fortified Milk – 2.5 micrograms per serving – roughly one cup
- Oily fish – such as mackerel, herring, salmon and sardines
- Egg yolks – 1 microgram per serving – 1 large egg
- Liver – 1 microgram per serving – 85g
- Fortified cereals and juices – 1 microgram per serving
- Supplements – 10 microgram per tablet (do not take for than 25 micrograms of vitamin D a day as it could be harmful)
Benefits of vitamin D for aging adults:
No that we know how it helps our bodies, we can apply the knowledge in how it can help aging adults and those we care for. An aging adult with a deficiency can be more prone to falls, and other health issues such as fatigue, joint pain, osteoporosis and osteoarthritis. This is why a diet packed with vitamin D can help:
- reduce the risk of falls and fractures by increasing bone health and strength.
- Reduce bone pain and weakness by helping to improve overall mobility.
- Help them remain independent by reducing the chances of diseases like osteoporosis.
Do you or someone you know struggle to use the kettle at home? Is it too heavy to lift and pour? Why not check out the Uccello Kettle and our range of other daily living aids like the Muggi Cup Holder or the Uccello Grip Mat.
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