These Supplements Are ‘Must-Haves’ For Strength If You’re Over 50, According To Doctors

What to consider

Type

Supplements come in various forms, each with its pros and cons. For example, if you want convenience but don’t love swallowing a big capsule every morning, gummy supplements may be better for you. Powders may be a good option to mix with drinks, but they might take time to prepare or taste unpleasant, says Boston-based dietitian Jasmin Dieb, RDN. There is no right or wrong type of supplement—it’s all based on personal preference—but capsules tend to be easily absorbed by the body, she says.

Safety

When shopping for supplements, it is important to ensure that they are safe and healthy to consume. Since they aren’t regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), you should always conduct your own research before purchasing a new product, especially if it’s being recommended by an influencer on social media, says Leah Tsui, RDN, a dietitian nutritionist at Ciba Health and owner of Limitless Nutrition. Opt for supplements that are certified by a reputable third party, like National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) or United States Pharmacopeia (USP). If you’re not sure, you can look for a certification stamp on the label noting the product’s exact certification.

Ingredients

Experts say the best supplements for women over 50 are those that are as natural and preservative-free as possible. “Make sure the ingredients are free of preservatives since the less processed the ingredients in your supplements are, the better your body will be able to absorb the nutrients,” says Dr. Nichols. Checking nutrition labels for allergens and fillers (like lactose, soy, gelatin, wheat, or other ingredients you may be sensitive to) is also essential to ensure you’re buying a quality supplement that won’t be likely to trigger an adverse reaction. “Avoid supplements labeled as “proprietary blends/custom blends/matrix” as it is not specified how much of each ingredient is inside the product,” says Mariana Dineen, RD, a dietitian and founder of Elemento Health.

How we chose

To select the best supplements for women over 50, we consulted registered dietitians and physicians about the factors to consider when shopping, including type, ingredients, and safety. We also conducted research on supplements intended for women over 50 from top brands to complement our experts’ recommendations in various categories including for sleep, for hormones, and for energy. Ready to add a supplement to your wellness routine? Read on for our top picks.

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