Taking a multivitamin every day may already be a part of your daily routine. You could also be one of those people who are totally overwhelmed when looking at the rows and rows of vitamins and supplements at the pharmacy. Either way, we should all be knowledgeable about what vitamins and minerals we need to keep our bodies functioning well.
As we get older, our needs for certain nutrients change. According to the National Institute on Aging, there are 13 essential vitamins — vitamins A, C, D, E, K, and the B vitamins (thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid, biotin, B6, B12, and folate). All of these vitamins are necessary to carry out important body functions, keeping us energized, and our immune systems strong. Minerals are natural elements found in foods that also serve key functions in body function. Some minerals include calcium, potassium, and magnesium.
The National Institute on Aging provides a great resource guide on the vitamin/mineral requirements for older adults which can be found here. As always, you should check with your health care provider before you start taking any supplements!