US liver scan this afternoon. Neil says the car will be alright to make that journey - only 7 miles each way, so it's all systems go!
BG 4.7 at 03.40 today. Up to 8.9 after coffees and breakfast, but I daresay it will go down fairly soon.
What do we think about supplements (pills)? My brother and SIL are recommending Vit D3 to try to help with inflammation, which does seem to be a major issue with me. I've never been a great one for taking supplements, thinking that good food should be enough. Not so sure now though what with diabetes, arthritis, liver and kidney problems, very delicate digestive system, inflamed gums, etc. All associated with inflammation. But if I start with Vit D, would I be then needing some other vits/minerals? How many pills would I end up with to add to the pharmacy drawer in my kitchen?
Hi Anne.
Thought I'd try out grok for an answer .
Pretty sure I read most of us from 6 months old can get enough of the vitamins we need through food etc, but at 60 that declined for most.
Grok seems to disagree slightly
Obv due diligence is in order and some foods won't suit some diets
Of note for me was the warning of proton pump inhibitors...
My anti psychotic meds cause nausea etc, proton pump inhibitors recommended for combat it ..interesting ..mmhh
"Vitamin levels don’t automatically drop severely after age 60, but aging can affect nutrient absorption and metabolism, increasing the risk of deficiencies in certain vitamins. Here’s a breakdown based on available information:-
**Vitamin D**: Absorption and synthesis in the skin decrease with age due to reduced sun exposure and thinner skin.
Studies suggest 30-50% of older adults may have insufficient vitamin D levels, increasing risks of bone loss and fractures. Supplementation (800-1000 IU/day) is often recommended, especially for those over 65.-
**Vitamin B12**: About 10-20% of people over 60 have low B12 levels due to reduced stomach acid and intrinsic factor, which impairs absorption. This can lead to fatigue, neurological issues, or anemia. Regular screening and fortified foods or supplements (2.4 mcg/day) are advised.-
**Vitamin B6**: Some studies indicate lower levels in older adults due to reduced intake or altered metabolism, potentially affecting cognitive health. Adequate intake (1.7 mg/day for men, 1.5 mg/day for women) is crucial.-
P **Other Vitamins (A, C, E, K)**: Deficiencies are less common unless dietary intake is poor or there are specific health conditions (e.g., malabsorption disorders).
Older adults may need more vitamin C (75-90 mg/day) due to oxidative stress.-
**Factors Contributing to Deficiencies**: Reduced appetite, chewing/swallowing difficulties, medication interactions (e.g., proton pump inhibitors), and chronic conditions like diabetes or gastrointestinal disorders can exacerbate nutrient deficiencies.-
**Data Point**: A 2020 study in *Nutrients* found that 20-40% of older adults in Western countries have suboptimal levels of vitamins D, B12, or folate, but severe drops are not universal and depend on lifestyle, diet, and health status
**Recommendations**:- Eat a nutrient-rich diet (fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins).- Consider supplements after consulting a doctor, especially for vitamin D and B12.- Regular blood tests can monitor levels, as individual needs vary.If you want specifics on a vitamin or have a health condition in mind, let me know, and I can dig deeper!_Disclaimer: Grok is not a doctor; please consult one. Don't share information that can identify you._"