When the body is low in vitamin D, osteomalacia, a disease that causes softening of the bones, may occur. For this reason it is important for seniors to eat foods rich in vitamin D. Vitamin B-6 is another vitamin that may be low in the bodies of older people. There are a couple of reasons for this. Second, some drugs, including alcohol, interfere with the body's ability to use the vitamin B-6 in food. Folic acid, a nutrient needed to make red blood cells, is the vitamin most commonly found to be low in the elderly.
Seniors often avoid foods rich in folic acid such as liver and green leafy vegetables.
Also, certain drugs and diseases may interfere with the uptake and use of folic acid by the body. Because low folic acid is so common, older people should make a special effort to eat plenty of foods containing this vitamin. Seniors should listen. Older people, especially women, who do not get enough calcium may develop osteoporosis. Vitamin and Mineral Supplements Everyone needs vitamins and minerals to keep the body healthy.