When you reach a certain age, your doctors may tell you that you must start supplementing certain vitamins and minerals.
It could happen for several reasons, for instance, you don’t get enough nutrients through your diet, or need an extra push to support specific bodily functions. Aside from being deficient in certain nutrients, several health experts believe that people should start taking supplements later in life in general, especially after the age of 40.
We spoke with health experts, Registered Dietitian Kaitlyn Comeau, and Dr. Jason Winkelmann, a Naturopathic Doctor and Chronic Pain Specialist with True Health Centers, about six supplements people over the age of 40 should take to reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and support their brain health.
“After 40, your body might start sending signals that it needs a little extra support, and supplements can help you answer that call,” explains Comeau.
“The right supplements help you live smarter, move better, and protect what matters most.”
Read more about their six supplement picks for people over 40 below.
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Magnesium
Health experts have always considered magnesium to be very powerful, as it supports around 300 processes in the body.
"Its importance only increases with age," says Comeau.
"For adults over 40, magnesium can help regulate blood pressure, improve circulation by supporting vasodilation (widening of the blood vessels), and calm the nervous system, which may reduce stress-related inflammation."
Dr. Winklemann also adds that magnesium is a great "muscle relaxer," so anyone dealing with muscle pain or cramping should consider incorporating magnesium supplements into their daily regimen.
CoQ10
If you haven't heard of CoQ10, Dr. Winklemann describes it as a "nutrient [that] supports energy production in the body and fights muscle fatigue associated with statin medications for high cholesterol."
In addition to fighting muscle weakness, Comeau says that for people over 40, "supplementing with CoQ10 may support healthy blood pressure, enhance circulation, and improve energy levels, especially for those taking statin medications, which can deplete CoQ10."
Fish Oil (Omega-3s)
If you grew up around people of a certain age who took fish oil, there's a reason why!
Omega-3s are packed with health components that are beneficial for heart health. Additionally, Comeau explains that these "fatty acids help reduce inflammation, improve the lining of the blood vessels, and may help lower triglyceride levels."
"Omega-3s also support joint mobility and brain health, making them a foundational supplement for anyone navigating midlife and beyond," she continues.
Vitamin D
Also known as the 'sunshine vitamin,' many people begin taking vitamin D supplements at some point, as many folks out there develop a deficiency.
Dr. Winklemann calls vitamin D levels "the single greatest marker of your overall health."
"It is used by every cell in your body," he adds. "It helps fight inflammation, lowers cholesterol and blood pressure, and strengthens bones when taken with Vitamin K2."
L-Arginine or Beetroot
L-Arginine is an amino acid, and beetroot is a natural source of nitrates. According to Comeau, both can "help increase nitric oxide production in the body, which improves blood vessel flexibility and circulation."
"This can be especially helpful for managing age-related blood pressure changes and supporting physical endurance," she notes.
"Enhanced blood flow also benefits brain health and nutrient delivery throughout the body."
Turmeric (Curcumin)
You've likely heard of turmeric and its health benefits, many of which are due to its active compound, curcumin.
Dr. Winklemann says that curcumin "is a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent."
"Curcumin helps regulate inflammatory pathways in the body and may help reduce joint pain, stiffness, and oxidative stress," he continues. "It's most effective when paired with black pepper extract, piperine, for enhanced absorption."
