Do asymptomatic individuals above 60 years old require multivitamins (multiple vitamins)?

From the Guidelines

Asymptomatic adults over 60 years old do not necessarily need multivitamins if they maintain a balanced diet, but may benefit from targeted supplementation of specific nutrients such as vitamin B12, vitamin D, and calcium. The evidence from recent studies, such as the 2014 U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommendation statement 1, suggests that multivitamins do not provide a significant benefit in preventing cardiovascular disease or cancer in healthy adults without known nutritional deficiencies. However, older adults may require targeted supplementation due to age-related changes in nutrient absorption and dietary patterns.

Key considerations for asymptomatic adults over 60 include:

• Focusing on a varied diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats as the primary approach to nutrition
• Considering targeted supplementation of specific nutrients, such as:
  • Vitamin B12 (1000 mcg daily)
  • Vitamin D (800-1000 IU daily)
  • Calcium (1000-1200 mg daily)
• Consulting with a healthcare provider for personalized recommendations based on individual health status, medication use, and diet
• Using blood tests to identify specific deficiencies that may need addressing
• Being aware that excessive intake of certain vitamins and minerals can have adverse effects, particularly when interacting with medications commonly prescribed to older adults.

It is essential to note that the evidence is insufficient to determine the balance of benefits and harms of supplementation with multivitamins for the prevention of cardiovascular disease or cancer 1. Therefore, a cautious approach is recommended, prioritizing a balanced diet and targeted supplementation under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

From the Research

Asymptomatic Populations Above 60 Years Old and Multivitamins

• Asymptomatic populations above 60 years old may benefit from multivitamin supplements due to the high prevalence of micronutrient deficiencies in this age group 2, 3.
• Older adults are particularly vulnerable to deficiencies of calcium, vitamin D, and vitamin B12, which can be alleviated by multivitamin supplements 2.
• Multivitamin use has been shown to improve nutritional status and decrease the prevalence of inadequacies for many micronutrients in middle-aged to older adults 3.
• However, the evidence is insufficient to determine the balance of benefits and harms of supplementation with multivitamins for the prevention of cardiovascular disease or cancer in the general adult population, including those above 60 years old 4.

Benefits of Multivitamins for Older Adults

• Multivitamin supplements can improve vitamin and mineral intakes and blood concentrations, thus improving overall micronutrient status in older adults 2, 3.
• Multivitamin use has been associated with a lower prevalence of inadequacies and improved nutritional biomarker status for folate, iodine, selenium, and vitamins B6, B12, and D 3.
• Multivitamin supplementation may also improve self-reported health status in healthy older adults 5.

Considerations for Multivitamin Use

• Older adults who use multivitamins should read labels carefully and consult their healthcare provider to ensure appropriate dietary supplement use 2.
• The use of gender- and age-specific multivitamins may serve as a practical means to increase micronutrient status and decrease prevalences of clinical deficiency in the middle-aged to older population 3.
• Further research is needed to determine the specific benefits and harms of multivitamin supplementation in asymptomatic populations above 60 years old 4.