I have to admit that as a child, I loved taking a vitamin tablet.
 They were chewable and had a sweet flavor.
 It was usually the highlight of breakfast.
 When I became an adult, I found out that these are no longer an option.
 For a long time, I ignored them...
to my cost.
Many problems can result when adequate intake doesn't occur.
 Yes, there are deficiency diseases, but most of us get at least enough of each necessary component to avoid this particular problem.
 Be aware that deficiency diseases are not the only bad outcome.
 Only consider lack of calcium intake.
 Osteoporosis may take a long time to develop, but it can be an extreme peril for older people.
In order to see the potential problems, take a look around you the next time you eat out.
 Decide how many of your daily nutritional needs are met by the foods you see being consumed.
 Let's let go of the whole "we eat to much" thing for this exercise.
 Don't judge by what the menu offers, just what you see being consumed.
Everyone needs proper nutrition, but seniors need it more than most.
 There are several reasons for this.
 One reason is as we get older, it's harder for our bodies to absorb the nutrients we need from our food.
 Even if you eat a perfectly balanced diet, you may need some boosters in a supplement format.
 Calcium is a good example.
Reason number two has to do with cost.
 Seniors are usually on a fixed income and have many medications prescribed by their doctors.
 The choice can boil down to "do I eat or take my medicine.
"  There are ways around this problem, but it takes observation and sometimes a willingness to admit to the necessity.
  The third reason I'd like to bring up has to do with desire to eat.
 Whether it's a medical condition, a medication or simply lack of an appetite, many of our seniors don't want to eat.
 They aren't hungry, they may have an upset stomach or just lack of desire for food.
  Supplements aren't the entire answer to this problem.
 As you can see by the three reasons I brought up, the problem is broad and may take some effort to resolve.
 If you are a senior and you see yourself in any of these scenes, talk to your doctor.
 Many drug makers are offering their medications free or at reduced cost for those who cannot afford them.
 Medications can be changed and appetite stimulants can improve your desire for food.
In most instances, I prefer to suggest that you get all of your nutrients from the foods you eat, but this may not be enough.
 Your doctor can tell you which products will best help you and also help you avoid products that could cause you harm.
 Your doctor is also bound by an oath that he or she will not reveal what you tell them short of a court order...
which isn't likely to be a problem.