5 Incredible Effects of Taking Vitamin D Supplements After 50

 

One day we are trucking along enjoying our youth. And then one day we wake up in our 50s, and we find creaks, cracks, and other feelings that we never experienced before.

Unfortunately, as our age increases, our risk for developing certain health conditions like osteoporosis, cancer, and hypertension increase as well. In other words, a 50-year-old body is very different than a 20-year-old body. And because of this, taking certain supplements may result in some surprising effects once we reach a certain age.

The benefits of supplements

Many of us have jumped on the vitamin D supplementation bandwagon over the past few years. This supplement has become so popular that it is now the second most common supplement consumed by Americans.

Vitamin D is unique because the human body can make this nutrient when exposed to the sun. But since most of us are not sun bathing like we used to, the opportunity to produce this key vitamin gets diminished.

If you are over 50 and you fall into the category of “vitamin D supplement taker”, here are some benefits that you may experience. 

1. You may develop stronger bones.

As people age, their risk of osteoporosis increases. Approximately 10 million adults, over the age of 50, suffer from osteoporosis.  In addition, 34 million have reduced bone mass or osteopenia. Fortunately, supplementation with vitamin D has been liked to higher bone mineral density and a reduced risk of developing weaker bones.

Women who are post-menopausal should focus on bone health.  It is key, as the risk of fracture is increased. And who wants to deal with a bone fracture when you don’t have to?

2. You may experience less depression.

Over half of depression cases manifest later in life. Also, late-onset depression is associated with increased risk of morbidity and increased risk of suicide.  Depression decreases physical, cognitive and social functioning, and increases self-neglect.   All factors of which are associated with increased mortality.

Several vitamin D receptors have been identified in the brain that affect mood. Furthermore suggesting that low vitamin D levels may be associated with cognitive decline and symptoms of depression.

There are direct links between low levels of serum vitamin D and higher late-life depression risk. Taking vitamin D supplements can help support healthy vitamin D levels, possibly combatting depression risk.

3. Your cancer risk may have a lower 

Results from a study published in BMJ suggest that high levels of vitamin D are associated with a 20% lower risk of certain cancers in both men and women compared with those with low vitamin D levels. If you are taking vitamin D supplements and end up having levels on the higher side, you may notice a reduced risk of certain cancers too.

4. You may have a healthy blood pressure.

Observational data have shown an association between low vitamin D levels and an increased incidence of high blood pressure as well as risk for hypertension. So, one surprising side effect you may experience if you regularly take vitamin D supplements is healthy blood pressure, although that doesn’t mean you can’t neglect following an overall healthy diet.

5. You may develop a healthy immune system.

As a person ages, their immune system gradually deteriorates. An association between low levels of serum vitamin D and increased risk of developing several immune-related diseases and disorders has been seen. Along with washing your hands and following all of the CDC recommendations, making sure your vitamin D levels are in check may help you keep the ick away.

Article by Lauren Manaker MS for Eat This, Not That©