Low Micronutrient Levels May Help Predict Disability
With many baby boomers about to retire, maintaining independence and the ability to live an active, engaged retirement are top of mind. A recent study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine found that deficiencies in several micronutrients may increase the risk for having difficulty performing daily tasks as people age.
Specifically, the study looked at women over the age of 65 and found that deficiencies in selenium, vitamin B6, and vitamin B12 were all associated with significantly greater risk of experiencing disability, which was defined as self-reported difficulty in performing two or more activities such as bathing, dressing, toileting, transferring and eating.
Selenium is an essential trace mineral that is used by the body in important antioxidant-related enzymes. Selenium also plays an important role in immune function and may help to prevent the onset of certain cancers, such as prostate cancer.
Vitamin B6 and B12 are involved in important enzyme reactions, nervous system function, and help to maintain low homocysteine levels. High homocysteine levels are associated with oxidative stress, endothelial dysfunction, vascular diseases (heart disease, stroke), and, in particular, with decline of cognitive function.
Nutritionally, your best bet for avoiding the potential problems highlighted by this study are to follow a good diet, including mostly whole foods, lots of fresh vegetables & fruits, healthy fats, and lean protein sources.
Also, supplementation with a broad-based multi-vitamin/mineral containing at least 200 mcg selenium and the B vitamin equivalent of a B-50 complex, may help to ensure that you get adequate amounts of these essential nutrients on a regular basis and to prevent/delay the onset of disability. It’s important to select supplements containing both adequate and well-absorbed forms of the different nutrients.
