It may pay to take supplements. A clinical study commissioned by the Dietary Supplement Education Alliance shows that taking certain dietary supplements may not only help seniors live longer, but also dramatically cut down on medical costs. Specifically, Omega-3 Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs) and lutein with zeaxanthin are among those supplements that may result in less-frequent doctor’s visits and reduced hospitalizations.

The study showed that these supplements helped combat conditions common among seniors, such as cardiovascular/heart disease (CHD) and age-related macular degeneration (AMD), which, if controlled, will ultimately allow a more fulfilling, longer life. In numerous studies, including one conducted by the FDA, Omega-3 EFAs in dietary supplements were recognized as helping prevent CHD. Another independent study calculated that among those who took a daily dose of Omega-3 over a five-year period, there was a decrease in health care expenditures by $3.1 billion, thanks to a reduced need for medical treatment.

Lutein with zeaxanthin, a combination that has been shown to reduce age-related diseases of the eye, played an important role in avoiding not only costly eye treatments but also hip fractures and other symptoms caused by vision-loss-related accidents. The study estimated that, over the same five-year period, the savings in medical expenditures totaled $2.5 billion.

Source: NNfA Today (2005). New study finds certain dietary supplements help seniors live longer, more independent lives: Savings estimated to be billions for U.S. healthcare system. National Nutritional Foods Association, November. Retrieved online July 20, 2006 from http://www.nnfa.org/site/DocServer/Nov05.pdf