Chewable Vitamin D Is Essential For Healthy Older Adults

By Author: Mr projects
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Vitamin D is important for bone health at any age, but especially in later years as our ability to absorb the "sunshine vitamin" is diminished. Exposure to the sun may decrease as we age, depending on lifestyle, time spent outdoors and whether we live in a sunny climate. Because our ability to absorb this essential nutrient decreases as we age, even in areas where sunlight is plentiful year-round, we are more prone to illnesses like hypocalcemia, osteomalacia, and hypophosphatemia. Moreover, an increased risk of injury when falls occur can have a life-altering effect on the elderly. This article describes some of the bone diseases common in older adults that can be avoided with correct supplementation of vitamins.

1. Hypocalcemia

Low blood calcium occurs when calcium is not adequately absorbed in the body. When vitamin D is low, calcium cannot be absorbed into the bloodstream, making supplementation necessary. Symptoms of hypocalcemia include numbness in the mouth,lips, hands, and feet, as well as convulsions, arrhythmias, and tetany. Purplish bruise-like spotting on the skin (known as petechiae and purpura) can ...
... also occur. Serious, even life-threatening complications from hypocalcemia include cardiac arrhythmias and laryngospasm. Treatment for hypocalcemia includes immediate dosage of vitamin D and calcium, which should be ongoing once adequate levels are reached in order to maintain good health.

2. Osteomalacia

This condition is characterized by a softening of the bones and is most commonly due to vitamin D deficiency. Unlike osteoporosis, osteomalacia is the result of insufficient absorption of calcium from the intestine as well as phosphate deficiency. Renal failure, malnutrition, celiac disease, and Crohn's disease can all result in softening of the bones over time. Symptoms of osteomalacia can include fatigue, soreness in the low back area and thighs, and bone pain and weakness. This condition can result in bending of bones and, ultimately, fractures. Treatment includes a dramatic increase in vitamin D for up to six weeks and may also require daily oral or intravenous treatment over the longer term.

3. Hypophosphatemia

Low blood phosphate levels are the result of the body's inability to absorb phosphate, commonly as a result of vitamin D deficiency, and can result in life threatening illness. Some of the most common signs and symptoms of this condition include noticeable changes in muscle strength and function as well as mental dysfunction. Confusion, delirium and coma can occur if treatment is not forthcoming. Hypophosphatemia requires intravenous dosages of potassium phosphate as well as oral supplementation of deficient nutrients.

Make Sure Your Elderly Loved Ones Are Meeting Their Nutritional Needs

Because of the seriousness of complications resulting from nutritional deficiency and related illnesses -- and in some cases, symptoms can be subtle enough to go undetected -- it is best to be proactive. Ensure that your elderly parent or loved one is getting the correct dosage of chewable vitamin D for his or her needs. Speak to your health care provider about appropriate supplementation to prevent illness and bone disease and improve quality of life. Consultation with a doctor is especially recommended, as adjustments to dosages may be required for patients with illnesses such as kidney or liver disease.

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