Health

Tips To Prevent the Common Cold and Natural Remedies to Ease the Symptoms

Mustard, Please While this may sound like a strange remedy, it has been proven to work. Why does it work? Mustard has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.… Trista - October 11, 2019

Human rhinovirus, otherwise known as the common cold, was first discovered in the 1950s when scientists were trying to understand more about the inner workings of the virus. After all of this time, we still do not have a cure for this pretty common ailment.

Both antiviral agents and vaccinations have been attempted, but all have been unsuccessful. What makes treatment development so difficult? There are more than 200 viruses known that cause the symptoms of the common cold. Human rhinovirus just happens to be the most common culprit for causing the common cold. With winter just around the corner, it may be helpful to understand how the common cold develops, how you can prevent from spreading it, and some good old-fashioned home remedies that will ease your symptoms.

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How Does the Common Cold Start?

How exactly do you spread the virus? First, you have to come into contact with another infected person. It is spread either through direct contact or by touching a surface that has been contaminated and then touching your nose or mouth right afterward. The cold may also be spread through large mucus particles that are expelled from the body through close-range coughs and sneezes. Interestingly enough, contamination of the eye can cause an infection in the nose because tears from the eye drain through a duct that leads right into the nasal cavity.

Once inside the body, the virus then attaches itself to the lining of your nose or throat, wherever it happened to enter the body. In reaction to this, the body’s immune system sends out white blood cells to combat the virus. Unless you have been infected with this strain before (remember there are around 200 different viral strains that cause the common cold), the initial attack by your immune system will fail; this is what causes the inflammation of your throat and nose and why your body starts to produce all of that nasty mucus. Because your body is spending so much energy trying to fight off the infection, sufferers are often left feeling tired and weak.

What makes it more likely that someone will catch a cold? Contrary to popular belief, you do not catch a cold from being wet or cold outside. Usually, if you are feeling stressed and overly tired or if you are someone with regular allergies, it is more likely that the virus will affect you.

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Symptoms of the Common Cold

The most common symptoms experienced include a scratchy or sore throat (usually the first sign of infection), sneezing, watery eyes, stuffy nose and mucus draining from the nose into the throat. This nasal congestion is caused by the inflammation of large veins in the lining of the nose. Headaches and decreased appetite may also be present.

Coughing is developed later in the disease and is caused by inflammation of the larynx, trachea and lower airways. The cough can either produce mucus or not. More severe symptoms would include a high fever (typically found in infants and the elderly) and muscle aches, which may be a sign of the flu instead of a cold if other symptoms are not present.

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Who Is At Risk?

Though we have touched on some individuals who are more likely to come down with the common cold, there is one more group of important note here: kids. Children will typically have around five colds a year. Why is the number so high? Because they spend so much of their time around other people and generally are in very close contact with those people, especially in a daycare setting.

Also, children usually do not practice good hygiene like their adult counterparts. Another reason why children are affected so often is that they have not had the time to develop immunities to all of the different types of the virus like adults have had time to do.

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When Is Cold Season?

In the United States, the cold season tends to start between August and September and can last until March or April. This time frame may be because schools typically open around this time. Cold weather may also play a role here; when the temperature drops, people tend to spend more time indoors in closer contact with other individuals who may be contagious.

Another factor may be the change in humidity; most cold viruses survive better outside of the body. Also, cold weather tends to dry out the linings of the nose and throat, which makes you more vulnerable to infection. An interesting fact is that ultraviolet light is more scarce in the winter months; this type of light is known to kill viruses.

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Duration of the Illness

The incubation period for this illness is two days before symptoms merge. Typically, the cold will last between 7 and 10 days, with the cold symptoms lasting anywhere from one to four days, but nasal congestion lasts the entire duration of the illness.

If symptoms persist longer than this, it may be wise to make an appointment with your physician. The cold can lead to bacterial infections of the lungs, sinuses or ears. Your physician will need to prescribe an antibiotic for this secondary infection, though it would be of no help to the original infection.

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Wash Your Hands

Knowing that the cold is so common, why not try to prevent it? The good news is you can! One of the best ways to avoid the spreading of the virus is by staying home when you do not feel well. You will be contagious and can quickly spread the cold without even realizing it. It is simply better for everyone if you stay home and rest during your illness. If staying home is simply not possible for you, try staying away from others as much as possible, sneeze and cough into the crook of your elbow or a tissue and be sure to wash or sanitize your hands after every sneeze/cough.

Washing your hands is such an essential step in preventing the spread of the cold. Because so many people feel their face unconsciously and then continue to touch other surfaces with their contaminated hands, you can see why it is so important to clean your hands. And not just get your hands wet but wash them right. Make sure you lather up with soap and wash between your fingers, your palms, even under your nails for a good 30 seconds.

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Don’t Touch Your Face

Another great tip, while hard to do, is not to touch your face. It only takes a few particles of the virus to cause an infection, so try to avoid rubbing your eyes, picking your nose, and biting your nails while you have symptoms.

Something else you could do to help your symptoms is to stop smoking while you’re sick. Smoking irritates the throat and lungs, which will only make symptoms worse. Even if you do not smoke, it is smart to stay away from those who do; second-hand smoke is enough to cause such irritation. Recent studies also show that smokers have a lower immune response to the cold virus as compared to non-smokers.

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Clean the House

Are you ready for another good tip? If someone is sick in your household, try using disposable dishes for that person so as not to spread the cold to other members of the house. This tip may seem like common sense, but it is worth mentioning. If you or anyone else is suffering from a cold, make sure to keep all surfaces clean so as not to infect any new people with the virus.

Viruses can live on surfaces outside the body for a few hours, which is one of the reasons why this virus spreads so quickly. It is important to wipe down all surfaces used often to try to prevent the further spreading of the cold. You could use either hot water and soap, bleach or disinfectant wipes to combat the invisible bug. As discussed previously, children have multiple instances of the flu each year. So it is essential always to wash and disinfect their favorite toys as well when cleaning other surfaces.

An easy tip to follow while you are sick is to utilize the power of paper towels! Cloth towels can trap the virus after being touched, just like any other surface mentioned previously. To avoid infecting others, try using disposable paper towels until the sickness is over.

Another common sense item here is to throw your tissues away immediately after use. Again, the virus can live on that tissue for hours after being used, so it is vital to other people in your household for you to dispose of the soiled cloth so as not to infect them as well. Remember also to wipe down the surface your contaminated tissue was sitting on as the virus can live on that surface as well.

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Eat Healthy

Even though your appetite may dwindle when you are sick, it is still essential to eat healthy while you are sick. Your immune system will have a better time fighting off the infection if you are in tip-top shape. Useful tips to follow include eating your fruits and veggies, making sure you are getting enough sleep and trying to exercise regularly (maybe not so much when everything is plugged up with mucus).

Stress, as mentioned previously, can be a factor in the development of the cold. When we are stressed, we release a hormone called cortisol, which has anti-inflammatory properties. If you are stressed over a long period, your body produces too much of the hormone and can become immune to it. In conclusion, if you are chronically stressed, your body’s anti-inflammatory response is faulty, which makes it more difficult to fight off the common cold.

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Home Remedy: Honey

Now that we know more about the common cold and how we can try to prevent it let us discuss what you can do if you already caught a cold. One natural remedy you could use is honey.

Although evidence is weak for the use of honey to combat the cold, studies suggest that just one tablespoon of sweet syrup can help with the coughing associated with the sickness. It is thought that honey has some antimicrobial properties, which allows it to be effective against some bacteria and viruses. An excellent way to ingest the honey is to add it to some warm water; you could also add some lemon for that extra boost of vitamin C.

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More Zinc

There is also some weak evidence out there showing that zinc lozenges may shorten the duration of your illness by a few days, but this only works for adults. They do not taste the greatest, and they may make you nauseated.

How does zinc work for your body? It prevents the virus from being able to replicate in your body. Not only is it available in lozenges; you may also purchase tablets, syrups, supplements, or nasal sprays. The spray, however, may cause you to lose your sense of smell temporarily.

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Remember Hydration

While staying hydrated is essential all of the time, it is especially important when you are not feeling well. Besides drinking your honey water, just plain old water will do the trick, as well as juice or clear broth.

These all help to loosen congestion as well as keep you hydrated. What to avoid: alcohol and caffeine, which often cause dehydration.

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Moisturize the Air

Another way to help loosen congestion is to add moisture back into the air, either using a cool mist vaporizer or a humidifier. Do not use steam! Read that again. Do not use steam. We repeat do not use steam. Why? Steam has been proven ineffective and could cause burns. Remember, having a dried-out nose and throat makes it easier for the virus to attach itself to those linings.

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More Rest

Simple enough: you can only heal when it is in rest mode. The more you sleep, the better you will feel, and the faster you will recover.

Also, stay nice and warm while resting; this will ensure that the body is using all of its energy to fight off the sickness rather than expending energy trying to keep your body at the right temperature.

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Drink Warm Liquids

Although we have touched on this before, another note is warranted. Warm liquids such as chicken soup, tea, or apple juice may decrease congestion by increasing mucus flow. This method is used across cultures, so it has to work, right?

Warm liquids also prevent dehydration, as discussed before, and help to soothe the inflamed membranes of the nose and throat. If you cannot sleep at night, try concocting a hot toddy: make a cup of your favorite herbal tea, add one teaspoon of honey and one small shot of whiskey or bourbon. However, please drink responsibly. Also, remember, alcohol worsens dehydration, so try limiting yourself to just one of these drinks.

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Gargle Salt Water

Who doesn’t remember a time when your parents told you to gargle with salt water? Well, it has proven effective against the cold. It is one way to ease that sore and scratchy throat. The mixture is made by adding ¼ to ½ teaspoons of salt to an 8-ounce glass of warm water. Other remedies you could try to help with the sore throat are ice chips or hard candy.

Surprisingly enough, this saltwater trick can be used to ease nasal congestion, as well. For this mixture, you add ¼ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon baking soda to an 8-ounce glass of warm water. Using either a syringe or a nasal irrigation kit, you can squirt the water inside the nasal passages. Hold one nostril closed and squirt water a few times into the other nostril; let water drain naturally. Repeat on the other nostril. You may repeat as many times as needed.

To reduce the tickle in your throat, you could also try an astringent gargle by using a tea that contains tannin to help tighten those mucus membranes. You could also use a viscous gargle made with honey or honey and apple cider vinegar. To make such a remedy, you would need to seep one tablespoon of raspberry leaves or lemon juice into 2 cups of hot water, then mix with one teaspoon of honey. Let this mixture cool before you try gargling with it.

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Learn About Echinacea

This long word is a natural herbal extract from a plant. It is thought that Echinacea may help prevent colds and relieve nasal congestion associated with the illness.

Research shows that this plant product may even help support the immune system; it possesses antiviral properties and may also fight against cold and flu viruses. Echinacea comes as a supplement or an herbal tea.

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Use Garlic

Hopefully, you are not a vampire, because this smelly substance can do wonders for your cold. Garlic is found to be useful because it is known to possess antiviral and antibacterial properties.

You have the option of eating raw garlic, incorporating garlic into meals, or you can take a supplement. The third option might be the easiest unless you carry a pack of breath mints with you.

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Try Menthol

Menthol helps relieve the blocked sinuses and congested airways associated with the common cold. The plant product possesses some antibacterial and pain-relieving qualities, which is why it is used in most vapor rubs.

Menthol is extracted from many types of mint plants. Menthol may be added to hot water for steam inhalation, which has been shown to reduce coughing in sufferers. You could also go the old-fashioned way and utilize a vapor rub at night to help with sleep.

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Get Enough Vitamin D

This vitamin may help to prevent you from contracting the cold in the first place. In a study of college students, vitamin D takers were less likely to come down with the common cold than those who did not take a daily supplement.

If you live in a colder climate, it may be beneficial for you to take a supplement during the winter months because you receive less sun exposure during that time. Plus, if it helps you not to get the cold, why not take it anyway? Cold weather means the cold is coming!

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Consider Oregano Oil

This oil contains antibacterial properties through its ingredients, thymol, and carvacrol. Thymol oils are typically used to relieve headaches and coughs, which are both common symptoms of the cold.

So how are you going to use this oil while you are sick? You may either ingest the oil, or you can rub it on your chest just like you would any other vapor rub.

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What About Probiotics

Probiotics are live bacteria that support gut health and may also be useful in preventing colds and touches of flu. You probably already knew probiotics were great to keep you regular.

However, research shows that probiotics help support the immune system against flu viruses. Probiotics can be found in yogurt, sauerkraut, miso, and tempeh.

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Ever Heard of North American Ginseng?

Mixed results have shown that this product may help relieve the symptoms of the cold or flu. Research has shown that this particular type of ginseng reduces the risk of contracting the illness and also decreases the duration of the illness.

It is probably not surprising to read that you may either eat raw ginseng, or you may take it in capsule or herbal tea form. Herbal teas are probably the most popular option since hot tea can also help soothe a sore, itchy throat.

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Yum! Berries

All berries contain a chemical called polyphenols, which have been shown to have antiviral properties and can even help fight against the flu virus. Elderberries specifically have been shown to reduce symptoms of the flu.

A cranberry beverage may also help support immune function. Some of the berries contain vitamin C, which is another natural remedy for the common cold.

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Lots of Vitamin C

This vitamin is essential for immune health and is thought to reduce the frequency of colds. Although no scientific data is supporting the claim that vitamin C helps get rid of the cold, researchers have suggested that taking a regular vitamin C supplement could reduce cold symptoms.

Along with berries, citrus fruits and avocados also contain vitamin C; you can also buy this vitamin in supplement form. Feel free to eat the berries raw, mix them in a smoothie, or top them on a dessert.

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Blow Your Nose, Seriously

This tip may seem self-explanatory and straightforward, but it is still an easy way to combat the common cold. It is healthier for you to blow that mucus out of your body rather than swallowing it, which is almost an automatic response from the drainage that is happening.

However, if you blow too hard, you may carry germs back into your ear canals, causing an earache. So make you blow gently and never force it, even if your nasal passages still feel blocked.

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Take Hot Shower

Showering on a regular basis can help you prevent catching a cold because you are ridding your body of daily germs. However, if you already have a cold, this at-home remedy is just another way to add moisture back into those nasal passages and help soothe congestion.

Plus, you may be a little sweaty if you are one of the ones who come down with a fever; a shower is the perfect place to make you feel better!

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Rub Salve

Although we already mentioned menthol as a natural remedy for the cold, it is crucial to make a separate note here about salves. Mentholated salves do work the best, but rubs containing eucalyptus and camphor may also be of some use. Salve is generally placed under the nose to help open up the nasal passages to make breathing easier.

This cream may also help to relieve the irritated skin under the nose from continually having to expel mucus from the nasal passages. All three types of salve also have mild pain relieving properties. It is important to note here to never put this product inside of your nose; always place it on the outside of the body.

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Don’t Forget About Hot and Cold Packs

Either temperature helps to relieve the pain and pressure you feel in your sinuses. The most commonly affected sinus cavities are found under and above your eyes.

If you do not have these packs available to you, you can make your own: a warm washcloth can be heated in the microwave for about a minute, and any packaged, frozen veggies can be used as a cold pack.

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Sleep with an Extra Pillow

The extra elevation helps to reduce nasal congestion. Nasal congestion is one of the reasons it is so hard to sleep at night when you are suffering from the common cold.

Drink an herbal tea before bed, place some salve under your nose and grab that extra pillow for the best night of sleep with a cold you’ll ever experience! Hopefully, you will wake up feeling ten times more refreshed than when you went to bed.

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Don’t Fly

The change in air pressure while flying causes extra stress on the body, which we have already analyzed as a factor causing you to catch the cold virus. Flying with a cold may also damage your eardrums due to the congestion associated with the illness combined with the changing pressures during takeoff and landing.

If you have to fly, it is vital to use a decongestant before your flight leaves. If you want to stick with the all-natural remedies, you could try chewing gum and constantly swallowing to relieve that extra pressure.

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Eat Bananas

Fruit coming to the rescue once again! And this yellow fruit is not only healthy in general, but it is loaded with potassium. However, that is not the miracle ingredient that helps with a cold. Recent research shows that a protein inside of bananas called banana lectin can bust open viruses.

How does it do this? The protein binds to sugar molecules, which are what surround the viral agent. For some reason, when the banana protein binds to the sugar around the virus, the virus becomes harmless.

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Snack on Carrots

Now let us switch to the vegetables. Carrots contain something called beta carotene; one of beta carotene’s functions is to support the body’s mucus membrane, which is what lines the nasal and throat passageways.

When beta-carotene is present, it makes it harder for bacteria to adhere to these membranes and cross into the bloodstream, thus preventing infection in the first place.

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Cauliflower Munchies

Have you tried the ever-so-popular cauliflower crust for homemade pizza yet? How about some do-it-yourself chips? This veggie is rich in glutathione, which is a potent antioxidant that helps to fight off infections.

These antioxidants are also useful in supporting the overall immune health, which is working hard during rhinovirus infection.

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Try Egg Yolks

Although a great source of protein, that is not what is so beneficial in this super-food. Egg yolks contain zinc, which we discussed previously as being of benefit to those who have a cold.

Egg yolks also contain selenium, which has been shown to help boost the immune system, which, again, needs all the help it can get when you are sick.

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A Little Bit of Cinnamon

Who knew this spice was so versatile? Cinnamon can be used as an antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal agent! So not only does the spice boosts the immune system, it helps to fight against the pathogen that is making you ill.

There are multiple ways to ingest this product; mix it into your coffee grounds, add it to a cup of tea, sprinkle it on top of oatmeal, add to hot chocolate, or sprinkle it on top of some fruit (maybe some berries?).

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Eat Mushrooms

While they may not seem that healthy at first glance, mushrooms are filled with zinc, which is extremely useful in fighting off the common cold.

When a person is low on zinc, they do not produce as many white blood cells, which is how the body defends itself against infection. Increase your zinc production, and your body becomes the ultimate fighting machine!

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Try Some Watermelon

It may seem like watermelon is mostly water, but it contains lycopene, which is another excellent immune-boosting chemical.

One of the health benefits of lycopene is that it reduces respiratory inflammation, the system that is involved with the cold. As the swelling goes down, relief goes up.

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Yes, Chili Peppers

While these guys will not help you fight off the cold, they can help to clear out your nasal passages, which will ultimately make you feel better. They contain something called capsaicin, which research has shown promotes the feeling of a congested head.

Not only can chili peppers clear out the sinuses and nasal cavities, but it also helps to break up mucus in the lungs.

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Mustard, Please

While this may sound like a strange remedy, it has been proven to work. Why does it work? Mustard has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. This remedy has been used since the dawn of time, so why not give it a try?

To make a mustard plaster, mix one tablespoon of mustard with two to four tablespoons of flour. Next, mix in one egg white and enough warm water to make a paste. Then rub this paste in between two pieces of cloth. Rub some olive oil on your chest before placing the plaster cloth on the skin. Believe it or not, mustard burns the skin, so only leave the towel on for a few minutes and wipe off any residue that remains.

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What Doesn’t Work?

Now that we have discussed what does work, let us take a quick moment to consider what will not work for your cold symptoms. Even though doctors may want to prescribe them to you, antibiotics will not help your viral infection. Medicines only work against bacterial infections, not viral infections such as the cold. Taking antibiotics without needing them may cause antibiotic resistance in some bacteria.

Over-the-counter cough and cold medications are also found to be ineffective for children. They may be harmful to children under the age of six. So why not stick to all the natural remedies discussed above!

Health

Understanding the Correct Vitamins to Take for Optimal Health

As you are aging, are you getting what you need? You probably know you need vitamins and minerals for good health and your overall well-being; however,… Trista - October 7, 2019

As you are aging, are you getting what you need? You probably know you need vitamins and minerals for good health and your overall well-being; however, which vitamins should you really be taking? Vitamins are essential nutrients that perform hundreds of roles in the body for its proper functioning. There is a fine line between getting too much of these vitamins and not enough of them.

Health professionals and doctors always say that eating a healthy and balanced diet is the best way to get the necessary vitamins that our body requires. However, people may consume foods that are scarce in one or more vitamins for numerous reasons. Nevertheless, with the development of medical science, there are vitamins in the supplement form, which are beneficial, especially as you age.

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Vitamin A

Vitamin A is a group of fat-soluble compounds highly essential for strong bones, flawless skin, healthy vision, and other tissues in the body. As we age, we face problems like wrinkles, weak bones, and weak eyesight, among other aspects. Vitamin A works as an antioxidant that fights cell damage and plays a vital role in keeping vital organs like kidneys, lungs, and heart healthy.

According to medical experts, it is recommended that adolescents get 300-600 mcg (microgram) of vitamin A, women 700 mcg, and men 900 mcg of vitamin A per day. It is found in both animal and plant-based foods, but if necessary, you can get it through health supplements, like pills or tablets.

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Vitamin D

Vitamin D is an essential nutrient that is required to stay healthy. Vitamin D deficiency can cause severe health implications, such as high blood pressure, fractures, falls, some cancers, and other autoimmune disorders. Vitamin D is essential for strong bones, and it helps the body to absorb calcium.

Without Vitamin D, our bodies may lead to muscle weakness, loss of bone tissue, and possible skeletal deformity. As we age, our body becomes vulnerable to several complications, and we need vitamin D to regulate cell growth, fight infection, help muscle movement, and carry messages through our nervous system. The best source of vitamin D is natural sunlight.

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Vitamin C

Vitamin C is an essential nutrient that impacts skin elasticity, cardiovascular function, and immune health. To stay in good physical condition and ward off diseases, we should strive to get our daily dose of vitamin C. Immune cells decrease with age, putting people at an increased risk of contracting an illness.

Vitamin C maintains the function of the immune cells while resetting metabolism and offsetting weight gain. It helps in removing oxidative stress that ultimately increases the body’s metabolism. People in their late 30s and early 40s are told to consume foods rich in vitamin C, as it helps them grow old without any complications. Also, most importantly, people undergoing chemotherapy sessions for cancer treatment may benefit from taking vitamin C.

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Vitamin K

As we age, a deficiency in vitamin K can lead to mobility issues. Vitamin K is a fat-soluble nutrient that plays a role in regulating blood calcium levels, bone metabolism, and blood clotting. Vitamin K is essential in producing ‘prothrombin,’ an essential protein that is important in bone metabolism and blood clotting.

Moreover, increased blood levels of vitamin K have been associated with enhanced episodic memory in older adults. On the other hand, vitamin K helps in keeping blood pressure low by inhibiting mineralization. Mineralization is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, and it occurs naturally with age.

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Vitamin E

Vitamin E is an essential nutrient that is critical to your reproduction, vision, and the health of your skin, brain, and blood. It comes with antioxidant properties that can protect your cells against free radicals, which ultimately helps prevent cancer, heart disease, and other severe health complications.

However, according to doctors, if you are taking vitamin E, you need to keep in mind that the supplements do not offer the same benefits as natural food sources rich in vitamin E. Foods rich in vitamin E include peanuts, almonds, margarine, olive oil, and canola oil. However, you should consult with your doctor if you are allergic to any of the products.

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Thiamin – Vitamin B1

Thiamin is a water-soluble B vitamin that plays a vital role in energy metabolism, and thus, in the development, growth, and function of cells. As we age, our cells become weak and find it challenging to convert food into energy. Thiamin is a critical vitamin in this aspect, as it has many vital functions throughout the body.

Unfortunately, our body isn’t capable of producing thiamin; hence, it must be consumed through food sources like whole grains, nuts, and meat. Thiamine deficiency may lead to diabetes, as well. So, it is vital that keep your thiamin level optimal to avoid any further complications.

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Pyridoxine – Vitamin B6

Pyridoxine is one of the water-soluble B vitamins that your body needs for numerous functions. Pyridoxine is significant to carbohydrate, fat, and protein metabolism, as well as the creation of neurotransmitters and red blood cells. Similar to thiamin, our body can’t produce Pyridoxine naturally; hence, it needs to be consumed via natural food sources or through health supplements.

Pyridoxine is known to have a positive influence on reducing the symptoms of depression. Moreover, it plays a crucial role in promoting brain function that can ultimately prevent Alzheimer’s disease. Last but not least, Pyridoxine may help treat and prevent anemia by aiding hemoglobin production.

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Niacin – Vitamin B3

Niacin is a critical part of the more than 400 different enzyme reactions taking place in the body. These enzymes are responsible for changing proteins, fat, and carbohydrates into a form the body can use. These enzymes are also responsible for metabolic processes in the body’s cells.

Hence, if your body is niacin deficient, it may lead to depression, fatigue, headache, constipation, vomiting, or diarrhea, and other health complications. With age, your cholesterol levels can also increase. Niacin can help improve your cholesterol levels and reduce the risks of cardiovascular diseases. However, before you take over-the-counter niacin supplements, you should always consult your doctor.

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Riboflavin – Vitamin B2

Riboflavin or vitamin B2, like other B vitamins, is involved in energy metabolism and helps keep the nervous system, including the eyes and skin healthy. Riboflavin is essential for the body for its overall health and growth. It helps in breaking down fats, proteins, and carbohydrates to produce energy.

Moreover, Riboflavin allows for the proper use of oxygen by the body. Deficiency in Riboflavin may lead to digestive problems and a weak immune system. It is not naturally produced in the body, and you need to consume it from natural food sources like green leafy vegetables, soybeans, mushrooms, whole grains, meat, and dairy products, among others.

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Cobalamin – Vitamin B12

Cobalamin is essential for creating DNA and red blood cells, and for the maintenance of healthy nerve function. For older people, getting enough Cobalamin is a challenge since they struggle to absorb it from food sources as well as younger people. Hence, they may have to rely on health supplements and other over-the-counter medications for obtaining Cobalamin in their bodies.

However, the doctors suggest eating milk products, eggs, poultry, meat, and fish to improve the levels of Cobalamin in your body. Vitamin B12 deficiency may cause pernicious anemia and cognitive impairment as we age.

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Folic Acid/Folate – Vitamin B9

Folic acid is responsible for improving cognitive function in men and women as they age. Folic acid is one of the B vitamins, which can be found in green leafy vegetables and certain fruits. It plays a critical role in the production of new cells, especially in the embryo and spinal cord. This is the main reason why pregnant women are advised by doctors to maintain their required folate level.

Adults need folic acid to generate DNA and red blood cells. It has been found that folate acid is critical in reducing several age-related impairments, such as Alzheimer’s disease and hearing loss. Moreover, being deficient in folic acid puts you at an increased risk of anemia and improper digestion. Folic acid is responsible for better absorption of protein as well.

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Pantothenic Acid – Vitamin B5

Pantothenic acid is a vital nutrient necessary for making blood cells. It is also helpful in converting food into energy. Pantothenic acid is needed for healthy eyes, skin, and hair, proper functioning of the liver and nervous system, healthy digestive tract, and making sex hormones in the adrenal glands.

Doctors suggest that the best way to get enough of the Panthothenic Acid is to eat a balanced diet, incorporating foods like whole-grain cereals, white and sweet potatoes, members of the cabbage family, and broccoli. Its deficiency can lead to obesity, muscular dystrophy, low blood pressure, heart failure, and multiple sclerosis in people.

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Choline

Choline is an essential vitamin that is required for normal bodily function and human health. While it is produced naturally in our liver, you must obtain the majority of this vital nutrient through diet. Choline impacts the metabolism, nervous system, muscle movement, healthy brain development, and liver function.

So, as you are aging, you need to take care of these respective body functions. Therefore, you need to consume an adequate amount of Choline daily to ensure that you remain in optimal health as you age. Choline deficiency may lead to muscle damage, neural tube defects in unborn babies, and other pregnancy complications.

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Biotin – Vitamin B7

Biotin is an essential nutrient, especially required for breastfeeding and pregnancy. In addition to that, it is crucial for the health of your nails, skin and hair. Like other water-soluble B vitamins, biotin is critical for energy production. Moreover, it helps reduce blood sugar in diabetic people.

Some studies show that biotin deficiency may cause a skin disorder called seborrheic dermatitis in people. Moreover, there have been cases of multiple sclerosis due to a lack of biotin in the body. In Multiple Sclerosis, the protective covering of the nerve fibers in the eyes, spinal cord, and the brain are damaged. This protective covering is known as ‘myelin,’ and biotin is an essential factor in producing it.

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Potassium

Potassium keeps the heart healthy since it keeps the heart beating at a reasonable pace. It also aids in maintaining the balance of water in the body, conducting muscle contraction and nerve impulses. As we age, a variety of factors can cause a potassium deficiency. The average levels of potassium should be between 3.5-5.0 milliequivalents/liter of blood.

If it reduces to the minimum or increases to the maximum, it can prove to be life-threatening. You need an adequate amount of potassium each day to maintain optimal health. Potassium is an electrolyte that can conduct electrical impulses within the body. Potassium works with other nutrients to regulate the extra and intra-cellular movement of nutrients, brain function, energy level, pH balance, and heart rhythm.

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Calcium

Calcium is the major component of our teeth and bones and is the most copious mineral found in our body. Calcium helps with muscle contraction. A deficiency in calcium may cause reduced mobility, stiffness, and muscle cramps. As we age, our bones become weaker and can easily fracture. Hence, you need to ensure that you have a proper intake of calcium regularly.

A good source of calcium includes dairy products like milk, yogurt, cheese, and butter. Insufficient amounts can lead to brittle bones when you are older, meaning your bones break easily due to loss of bone mass. While calcium is present is almost all the food we eat, deficiency may lead to constipation, kidney stones, muscle weakness, and fatigue.

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Sodium Chloride

Although sodium often gets a bad reputation in the nutrition and health industry, a small amount of this essential nutrient is necessary for proper body functioning. It helps in maintaining the fluid balance in the body and is vital for muscle contraction and nerve impulse conduction.

However, too much sodium can cause cardiovascular disease and high blood pressure. So, you must consume a lot of water to remove excess sodium from your kidneys.

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Phosphorous

Phosphorous is an essential nutrient found in the bones, which is processed by the kidneys. Phosphorous is as necessary as calcium when it comes to protecting the bones and teeth. However, phosphorous is also found in smaller amounts in tissues and cells for growth and repair. Eating disorders or poor diet may contribute to a phosphorus deficiency.

A phosphorus-deficient body may experience bone-related symptoms like fragile bones, bone pain, and other complications like loss of appetite. If you don’t have an adequate diet, you may develop phosphorous deficiency. There are a lot of phosphorus-rich supplements you can take. However, if you want to boost your levels without health supplements, you can focus on phosphorus-rich foods like beer, cheese, eggs, fish, chicken, chocolates, garlic, potatoes, and more.

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Iron

Iron is an important mineral with numerous roles in the body. Iron is the critical component of hemoglobin, allowing red blood cells to transport oxygen around the body. The symptoms of iron deficiency may include slowed mental functioning, impaired immune system functioning, dizziness, irritability, shortness of breath, decreased energy levels, weak and cold, and feeling tired.

Iron deficiency is common among the elderly population. So, as you age, you need to maintain your iron intake from natural food sources. If you aren’t getting enough iron from the foods you eat, you may want to visit your doctor and get a prescription for an OTC supplement.

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Magnesium

While magnesium is the fourth most abundant mineral in your body, you may not be getting enough of it, even if you are eating a healthy diet. Magnesium plays numerous roles in the health of your brain and body. It is an essential mineral for nerve function, muscle movement, and energy regulation.

Adults who consume less than the recommended quantity of magnesium are more likely to experience elevated inflammation markers. Inflammation is associated with significant health complications like cancers, diabetes, and heart disease. So, including magnesium-rich foods in our diet is critical to prevent unfavorable health conditions.

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Copper

Copper is an essential trace element necessary for survival. It plays a critical role in maintaining the immune system, nerve cells, and making red blood cells. It is found in all body tissues and plays a role in energy production. Copper is vital for overall health. It helps the body form collagen that aids absorb iron.

Low copper levels in the body have been linked to high blood pressure and high cholesterol. It also has been found that copper deficiency can lead to neutropenia – a lack of white blood cells, which fight off infection. Moreover, a sufficient amount of copper in the diet may help delay or prevent arthritis.

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Zinc

Zinc is a vital mineral with excellent health benefits. Zinc helps the immune system work properly and is essential for enzyme reactions, cell growth and division, protein production, and DNA synthesis. Its deficiency can negatively affect how your immune system works and increases the likelihood of diseases.

As we age, we tend to have lower zinc levels. Hence, it is crucial that you consume a zinc-rich diet regularly to keep the zinc levels intact. Zinc is naturally found in a variety of both animal and plant foods, but you can also take multi-nutrient supplements that provide zinc.

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Selenium

Selenium is an essential mineral vital to your overall health. It must be obtained through diet. While it is only needed in small amounts, selenium plays a crucial role in essential processes in the body, such as thyroid function and boosting metabolism.

Most importantly, it acts as a natural antioxidant that helps prevent cell damage caused by free radicals. This ultimately lowers your risk of certain cancers, including prostate, colon, lung, and breast cancers. Some research even suggests that supplementing with selenium may decrease the side effects in individuals undergoing radiation therapy. The natural selenium-rich food sources include fish, nuts, brown rice, eggs, and more.

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Manganese

Manganese is a trace element that contributes to many bodily functions, such as processing carbohydrates, fat, and glucose for energy production, metabolism of amino acids, and cholesterol. Manganese also plays a significant role in reducing inflammation, blood clotting, and bone formation. It needs to be obtained from external sources like foods and health supplements. However, our body can store it in the brain, kidneys, bones, pancreas, and liver.

So, as we age, we need to keep track of our manganese intake to ensure better health. The manganese-rich foods may include pineapple, sweet potato, lima beans, brown rice, spinach, nuts, black and green teas, and others.

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Iodine

Iodine is an essential mineral used by our thyroid gland to make thyroid hormones, which helps in controlling the growth and repair of damaged cells while providing healthy metabolism. People who don’t use iodized salt are at higher risk of iodine deficiency.

Moreover, pregnant women are also at risk of iodine deficiency. The deficiency can cause severe symptoms, such as pregnancy-related issues, swelling in the neck, learning difficulties in children, and weight gain. Hence, it is crucial to include iodine in your daily diet. Seafood is the best source of iodine, but it can also be obtained from iodized salt and other crops.

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Molybdenum

You may probably haven’t heard of molybdenum, but it is an essential mineral for your health. Molybdenum is the critical component of many vital body functions, though it is only needed in tiny amounts. Molybdenum is responsible for preventing toxic materials like deadly sulfites and other toxins forming in the body. While supplements are popular, molybdenum is available in the diet.

However, when you are taking a molybdenum supplement, make sure to check it with your doctor since a high dose can be problematic. It converts sulfites into sulfates, averting the buildup of dangerous sulfites. Moreover, it also helps in breaking down the aldehydes, which can be toxic to the body.

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Chromium

Chromium is a metallic component that you need in minimal quantities. It can enhance carbohydrate, protein, and lipid metabolism, and improve insulin sensitivity. Good sources of chromium include brewer’s yeast, liver, and broccoli. Chromium is thought to play a crucial role in Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes.

While there is no clear evidence on how chromium benefits body, reports on deficiency are rare. However, according to doctors, a lack could lead to impaired glucose tolerance, which can cause reduced control of blood sugar levels in people with type-2 diabetes, and less efficient control of cholesterol which can lead to heart disease.

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Probiotics

The core of your overall well-being is digestive health. Your gastrointestinal tract is responsible for absorbing all the nutrients; hence, it is directly linked to your immune system.

Therefore, it pays to keep your gut health up and running, and probiotics can help. Probiotics help nurture the good bacteria in your gut, aiding in the proper digestion of food and supporting digestive health. Probiotics help in cultivating better digestive health, and therefore, it should be a part of your daily nutritional routine.

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Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Fish oil is the primary source of omega-3 supplements, and they are lauded for their ability to fight inflammation. Omega-3 fatty acids can counteract a plethora of changes that we experience as we age.

It can help control cognitive problems, the risk of heart disease, and other health complications that strike with age. Omega-3s are mostly consumed in the supplemental form. However, those who are vegan can try pumpkin seed oil, as it is essentially a great source of omega-3s.

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Fiber

The importance of fiber intake surges as we age. Fiber is critical for keeping your digestive health intact. It keeps you regular and prevents constipation or loose motion. Most importantly, it helps protect against strokes, coronary artery disease, and lowers your blood sugar and cholesterol.

It helps in lowering cholesterol by holding onto bile acids and fat and kicking them out through your digestive tract. There are plenty of natural food sources rich in fiber, so there is no need for any additional fiber health supplement.

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Protein

Protein is as important as other nutrients in this list for healthy aging. Protein helps nurture, repair, and preserve tissues while supporting the growth of lean muscle. It keeps you satiated and energized longer than carbohydrates.

Protein is not only necessary for building muscle but for overall health as well. So, it is crucial to have a protein-rich breakfast every day. For additional supplementation, you can take protein in the form of powder and shakes.

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Glucosamine

As we age, our joints start taking the toll of our body. To keep your joints healthy, you may want to consider taking Glucosamine supplements. It can help you stay flexible and mobile as you age. Glucosamine is one of the most popular health supplements known for joint care.

According to health professionals, Glucosamine helps in slowing down the process of cartilage breakdown. Thus, it can provide you with support and comfort with your day-to-day activities, including workouts.

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Boron

Boron is a trace mineral found in the body that plays an important role in several body functions associated with immune response, strong bones, and brain function.

The health benefits of boron have been linked to increasing magnesium absorption, arthritis relief, and improved brain function. The actual job of boron is to allow certain nutrients in your body to perform at their optimal; hence, improving the overall function of your body.

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Coenzyme Q10

Coenzyme Q10 is an essential nutrient known for its antioxidant properties. It is needed for converting fat, carbohydrates, and proteins into energy for body growth and sustaining health.

It has also shown potential health benefits for cardiovascular health. However, with age, the production of Coenzyme Q10 decreases in our body. So, you are advised to supplement with Coenzyme Q10 on a constant basis.

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Collagen

With age, our skin starts to lose collagen – a complex protein that contains 19 different amino acids, which is a component of connective tissues, muscles, bones, and skin and provides structure and strength to the body.

Collagen supplements can help you get back your body’s vibrancy. It can help with increased skin elasticity and the production of other essential proteins like fibrillarin and elastin.

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Lutein

Lutein is an important nutrient that plays a critical role in the health of your eyes. So, supplementing with Lutein is more significant, especially after age 50. Lutein is a carotenoid nutrient that may reduce with age.

Lutein deficiency may lead to age-related macular degeneration, which can hinder your sharp, peripheral vision. Lutein can be obtained through health supplements and multivitamins.

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Black Cohosh

Black Cohosh is an essential nutrient, especially for women who have achieved menopause. It can help prevent the side effects of menopause.

This nutrient can help reduce inflammation, night sweats, and hot flashes while being hormone-free. Most importantly, Black Cohosh can reduce hormonal imbalance and improve sleep quality, as well.

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Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM)

Methylsulfonylmethane or MSM is a popular ingredient in many health supplements that helps you recover from joint problems.

When you reach a certain age, your body becomes slower, and it may take time to treat your joint problems. MSM can help decrease muscle damage and oxidative stress. It is also beneficial for skin and hair health since it promotes keratin production.

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Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA)

Alpha Lipoic Acid or ALA, often referred to as ‘universal antioxidant’ is a vitality-enhancing fatty acid that helps regenerate other antioxidants, including glutathione, and Vitamins C and E.

ALA also supports liver and heart health. It can be obtained from foods like red meat, fruits, and vegetables.

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Multivitamins

Multivitamins can help fill in the nutritional gaps and make sure that you are getting all the necessary nutrients and vitamins your diet is lacking these days. They are an essential part of our daily health supplements as it helps us steer clear of the potential health issues that come with aging, such as bone diseases and neurological damage.

To protect yourself from potential harm of aging, you need to maintain a diet that’s rich in all the necessary vitamins and minerals. If you aren’t getting enough minerals and vitamins from food sources, you should consult your doctor and get prescriptions for the required health supplements.

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