From the Guidelines
I strongly recommend multivitamins and minerals for older adults, especially those with reduced energy intake or dietary restrictions, to help fill nutritional gaps and support overall health. According to the most recent and highest quality study 1, there is no clear evidence of benefit from vitamin or mineral supplementation in people with diabetes, but it suggests that a daily multivitamin supplement may be needed in select groups such as the elderly.
The key nutrients that are essential for older adults include:
- Vitamin B12 (1000 mcg daily) to support nerve function
- Vitamin D (800-1000 IU daily) to maintain bone health
- Calcium (1000-1200 mg daily) to support bone health
It is also important to note that multivitamins should complement, not replace, a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Before starting any supplement regimen, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare provider, as some vitamins and minerals can interact with medications or be harmful in excess 1.
Additionally, blood tests can identify specific deficiencies that may require targeted supplementation beyond a basic multivitamin. The studies 1 also emphasize the importance of a balanced diet and regular exercise for older adults, and suggest that dietary restrictions may not be necessary for elderly residents with diabetes in long-term health facilities.
Overall, a daily multivitamin supplement can be a useful addition to a healthy lifestyle for older adults, but it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.
From the FDA Drug Label
IMPORTANT INFORMATION Long-term intake of high levels of vitamin A (excluding that sourced from beta-carotene) may increase the risk of osteoporosis in adults. Do not take this product if taking other vitamin A supplements. The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
Multivitamins and Minerals for Older Adults
- The use of multivitamin and mineral (MVM) supplements is a common practice among older adults to maintain or improve health 2.
- MVM supplements can help fill nutritional gaps and prevent conditions such as anemia, neural tube defects, and osteoporosis 2, 3.
- Some evidence suggests that MVM supplementation may have benefits regarding cancer prevention, cataract prevention, and cognitive performance 2.
Benefits of MVM Supplements for Older Adults
- MVM supplements can substantially increase vitamin and mineral intakes and blood concentrations, thus improving overall micronutrient status 3, 4.
- Regular use of MVM supplements can decrease the prevalence of inadequacies and deficiencies in micronutrients such as folate, iodine, selenium, and vitamins B6, B12, and D 5, 4.
- MVM supplements may be particularly beneficial for older adults who are at risk of nutritional deficiencies due to inadequate diet or certain health conditions 6.
Considerations for MVM Supplement Use
- Older adults should read labels carefully and consult their healthcare provider to ensure appropriate dietary supplement use 3.
- 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 5.
- Regular MVM use can increase the proportion of individuals who exceed the tolerable upper intake level for certain nutrients, such as folic acid 5, 4.