Doctor: 5 dietary supplements that older adults should pay attention to

For older adults, maintaining health is extremely important and many turn to supplements to prevent chronic disease.

However, recent studies have shown some risks associated with supplement use, especially in older adults who often take medication to treat medical conditions, according to health news site Best Life.

Here are some recommendations for some "tonic" drugs that people over 60 years old should not use.

For people in their 60s, maintaining health is extremely important and many turn to supplements.

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Ginseng. Natural supplements like ginseng appear to be safe. But depending on your health concerns, you may want to reconsider. It can interfere with diabetes medications and lower blood sugar, says Pinto-Garcia, MD, of the University of Connecticut.

Magnesium. This mineral has become a popular supplement because of its health benefits, especially blood pressure control and improved sleep. But seniors should be cautious, says Dr. Leann Poston, a health advisor for Invigor Medical. Excess magnesium can alter potassium and sodium levels, which can affect heart rhythm, especially in people with kidney disease. Magnesium supplements can also interact with medications such as bisphosphonates for osteoporosis, antibiotics, diuretics, and proton pump inhibitors for stomach acid.

Ginkgo biloba. This is the main ingredient in the brain tonic drug, used by many adults. However, this substance causes problems for people who are taking medication to treat diseases. Ginkgo biloba can increase the risk of bleeding, especially in people who take blood thinners to treat high cholesterol, said Beata Rydyger, a nutritionist working in Los Angeles (USA).

Vitamin A. Experts at Colorado State University (USA) warn that too much vitamin A can be harmful. Especially for people over 60 years old, too much vitamin A can increase the risk of osteoporosis and liver damage.

Vitamin D. The International Osteoporosis Foundation recommends that older adults take 800 - 1000 IU of vitamin D/day to support muscle and bone strength.

But be careful, too much vitamin D can increase calcium levels, increasing the risk of kidney stones and kidney problems. Vitamin D also interacts with many medications, including those for high cholesterol, blood pressure, heart, and even those for people with long-term kidney disease. So consult your doctor before taking it, according to Best Life.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/bac-si-5-thuc-pham-bo-sung-nguoi-lon-tuoi-can-luu-y-185250605230545052.htm