Anti-Aging Supplement Dosage Guide for Over 50s

According to the National Institute on Aging, over 70% of seniors take dietary supplements, yet many are unsure about proper dosages (NIA).

After spending years researching supplement safety, I now realize that getting the dosage right is crucial for both safety and effectiveness.

Did you know that vitamin D absorption decreases by up to 30% as we age? That changes things! Let’s explore exactly how to get your supplement dosages right after a quick look at measurements:

Essential Vitamin Dosages for Seniors

As we age, our vitamin needs, and also how much we absorb naturally, change significantly. Here’s what my research has taught me, backed by current medical understanding and practical experience.

Recommended Daily Vitamin D Intake by Age Group

How much?	2,000-4,000 IU per day
Optimal time?	With evening meal

First, let’s talk about vitamin D, often called the “sunshine vitamin.” As we age, our skin becomes less efficient at producing vitamin D from sunlight – actually about 50% less efficient after age 50! Here’s what research shows about optimal daily intake:

Remember to get your levels tested before starting supplementation, as individual needs can vary significantly. For instance, I take 4,000 IU daily.

Some key factors that affect your dosage:

• Skin tone (darker skin needs more)
• Weight (higher BMI typically needs more)
• Geographic location (less sunlight = higher needs)
• Medications (especially corticosteroids and statins)

If you’re thinking about supplements, see my guide on the best anti-aging supplements.

B12 Absorption Changes After 50

How much?	2.4-2.5 μg per day
Optimal time?	With evening meal

As you age, your stomach produces less stomach acid and intrinsic factor, which are absolutely essential for B12 absorption.

And common medications like antacids and metformin can further decrease your body’s ability to absorb B12 (WebMD).

That’s why the Institute of Medicine recommends that adults over 50 get most of their B12 from supplements or fortified foods rather than relying on natural sources alone (NIH).

Optimal Vitamin C Timing and Dosage

How much?	Up to 400mg
Optimal time?	30 minutes after a meal + iron

The timing and dosage make a huge difference in how much your body actually uses.

For optimal absorption, I’ve found that splitting your vitamin C intake during the day works best if you can.

The recommended dietary allowance is officially 75mg for women and 90mg for men. However, older people have been found to have much lower levels.

And so, up to 400mg is recommended for people over 50 by numerous experts, like at Oregan State University.

While vitamin C doesn’t need to be taken with food for absorption, some people experience discomfort when they take it on an empty tummy.

Timing vitamin C around certain medications is really important. For example, if you’re taking iron supplements, vitamin C actually helps with absorption (take them together).

However, if you’re on certain blood pressure medications or statins, you’ll want to space out your vitamin C by at least 2-3 hours.

And if you’re taking aspirin regularly or if you’re a smoker, you might need to bump up your intake a bit.

I have more on B vitamins here.

Fat-soluble Vitamins A, E, K Guidelines

Unlike water-soluble vitamins that your body can easily excrete, these nutrients need special attention because they accumulate in your body.

Vitamin A: For adults over 50, the recommended daily allowance (RDA) is 900 mcg for men and 700 mcg for women. But here’s the crucial part – if you’re taking a supplement, you want to pay attention to whether it’s preformed vitamin A (retinol) or beta carotene. I typically recommend getting most of your vitamin A from beta carotene sources because your body will only convert what it needs.

Vitamin E has been one of the trickiest to figure out. The optimal dosage for seniors is around 15 mg (22.4 IU) daily. But natural vitamin E (D-alpha-tocopherol) is absorbed almost twice as well as synthetic forms (DL-alpha-tocopherol). I always check the label carefully now for that ‘L’ after realizing this difference.

Vitamin K has two main forms: K1 (phylloquinone) and K2 (menaquinone). For healthy seniors, they recommend 120 mcg daily for men and 90 mcg for women. But here’s the key – you need to be very consistent with your intake if you’re on blood thinners.

Here are some crucial guidelines for taking fat-soluble vitamins:

One warning I always give: if you’re taking any medications, especially blood thinners or cholesterol medications, please talk to your healthcare provider before starting fat-soluble vitamin supplements. I’ve learned that these tionsctions can be serious – it’s not worth risking your health by guessing.

Remember, the goal isn’t to maximize intake but to optimize it. These vitamins are more like a savings account than a checking account – your body holds onto them, so you need to be careful not to overflow the account (Cleveland Clinic).

I typically recommend getting most of your fat-soluble vitamins from food sources when possible, using supplements only to fill in the gaps.

Special Considerations for Vitamin Absorption in Seniors

Think of your digestive system like a factory that’s been running for years. Over time, some of the machinery starts working less efficiently, and that’s exactly what happens with our nutrient absorption systems.

Special considerations for vitamin absorption in seniors include:

• Decreased stomach acid production affecting B12 and other nutrient absorption
• Reduced efficiency of vitamin D production from sunlight
• Slower intestinal transit time affecting nutrient absorption
• Medication ionsions that may impair vitamin absorption
• The need for more easily absorbable forms of certain vitamins

To optimize vitamin absorption:

1. Take vitamins with appropriate meals
2. Space out doses throughout the day
3. Consider using more bioavailable forms
4. Stay well-hydrated
5. Monitor for any medication interactions

Examples of probiotics:

• Yogurt
• Kefir
• Sauerkraut
• Kimchi

One often overlooked factor is hydration status. Many older people don’t drink enough water, and this can significantly impact vitamin absorption.

I always recommend taking vitamins with a full glass of room-temperature water and maintaining good hydration throughout the day. Think of water as the delivery system for your nutrients.

Regular blood work every 3-6 months can help ensure your vitamin levels stay in the optimal range. Always work with your healthcare provider to develop a personal supplementation plan.

And remember, these dosage recommendations are starting points – individual needs may vary based on health status, medications, and lifestyle factors. Regular monitoring and adjustment of your vitamin routine ensure you’re getting the right amounts for optimal health.

Mineral Supplement Dosages

Here’s what I’ve learned about mineral supplement dosages. Getting them right can be tricky, but I’ve discovered some interesting patterns that really make a difference.

Calcium and Magnesium Ratios Explained

Magnesium first…

How much?	320 mg for women / 420 mg for men (NIH)
Optimal time?	Any time – with or without food

…and then calcium:

How much aged 50-70?	1,000-1,200 mg (NIH)
How much aged 70+?	1,200 mg (both men and women)
Optimal time?	With meals

Interestingly, your body needs magnesium to properly absorb calcium.

A 2:1 calcium-to-magnesium ratio typically works best for most people over 50. That said, some people do better with a 1:1 ratio, especially those dealing with certain health conditions.

However, don’t take them together, as they can compete for absorption when taken in large amounts. Ideally, you want to take calcium in the morning and magnesium in the evening, as it can give you better sleep.

Most people don’t realize that certain medications can throw off your calcium-magnesium balance. For instance, a diuretic medication can deplete magnesium levels.

Zinc Dosage Recommendations by Gender

How much?	8 mg for women / 11 mg for men
Optimal time?	With low-fiber meals (not with iron)

When it comes to zinc, gender makes a bigger difference than most people realize, especially as we age.

Postmenopausal women often benefit from increasing their RDA to 10-12mg daily. The reason? Zinc plays a vital role in bone health, and we know how important that becomes after menopause.

For men over 50, the recommended daily zinc intake is 11mg. But because of decreasing testosterone levels with age, some men might actually benefit from higher amounts, around 15-20mg daily.

For both sexes, increased stress, wound healing or immune challenges can also benefit from around 15-20mg daily, but only for short periods.

Remember, zinc needs can change based on your diet too. If you follow a vegetarian or vegan diet, you might need more zinc – up to 50% -because plant-based sources aren’t as easily absorbed.

One thing I’ve noticed is that certain medications can affect zinc absorption. If you’re taking ACE inhibitors, diuretics, or acid reducers, you might need to adjust your zinc intake (NIH). Always consult with your healthcare provider about potential interactions.

Signs that your zinc dosage might need adjustment include:

• Weakened immune function (getting sick more often)
• Slower wound healing
• Changes in taste or smell
• Thinning hair
• Poor appetite

I have more detail if you want to read specifically about zinc supplements for seniors.

Iron Supplementation Guidelines

How much?	8 mg
Optimal time?	On an empty stomach (+ vitamin C)

Iron needs change dramatically for women later in life. After the menopause, the recommended daily intake drops from 15mg to 8mg. For men over 50, it stays steady at 8mg daily.

Signs that you might need iron supplementation include:

• Unusual fatigue
• Shortness of breath
• Cold hands and feet
• Pale skin
• Brittle nails

People often report dramatic improvements in energy levels when they reach their sweet spot. I usually recommend iron bisglycinate for supplements because it’s gentle on the stomach and well-absorbed.

For those who need supplementation:

• Start with a low dose and increase gradually
• Take iron on an empty stomach if possible, or 2 hours after meals
• Always take with vitamin C (about 100mg) to boost absorption
• Avoid taking with calcium, coffee, tea, or fiber supplements

Some medications can interfere with iron absorption too.

But here’s a crucial warning: never start iron supplements without getting your levels checked first. Iron is one of those minerals that can build up in your body if you take too much, potentially causing serious problems.

One final tip I’ve learned: if you experience constipation from iron supplements (a common issue), try taking a lower dose more frequently instead of one larger dose. Also, staying well-hydrated and increasing vitamin C-rich foods in your diet can help minimize side effects while maximizing absorption.

Selenium and Chromium Safe Limits

Selenium first…

How much?	55 μg
Optimal time?	With food (to avoid upset stomach)

…and then calcium:

How much?	20μg for women / 30μg for men
Optimal time?	In the morning (can interfere with sleep)

Selenium and chromium are two trace minerals that require careful attention to dosing. The amounts are small, but they pack a powerful punch when it comes to your health.

And, unusually, your body actually becomes more efficient at absorbing chromium as you age, so you might need less than you think.

I’ve discovered that taking these minerals with food increases safety and absorption. When taken on an empty stomach, they’re more likely to cause nausea. I always recommend taking them with breakfast or lunch.

I’ve also found that the form of these minerals matters.

• Selenium: selenomethionine is generally better absorbed than sodium selenite. Take with vitamin E for better absorption.
• Chromium: chromium picolinate tends to be better utilized than chromium chloride. Take with vitamin C for better absorption.

As for medications, certain acid-reducing medications can affect chromium absorption, while selenium can interact with some blood thinners.

Here are some of the side effects of excess intake:

For Selenium:

• Metallic taste in mouth
• Garlic breath odor
• Brittle nails
• Hair loss
• Digestive upset

For Chromium:

• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Mood changes
• Sleep disturbances

The bottom line: most seniors don’t need high doses of either mineral. Start with food sources first, get your levels tested, and only supplement under professional guidance. It’s much easier to prevent excess than to deal with its consequences later.

Timing Considerations for Mineral Absorption

Timing is crucial for mineral absorption. Here’s what I’ve found works best:

Morning (empty stomach):

• Iron (if needed) with vitamin C
• Wait 30 minutes, then eat breakfast
• Take calcium with breakfast

Lunch:

• Zinc (with food to prevent nausea)
• Trace minerals like selenium or chromium

Evening:

• Second calcium dose with dinner
• Magnesium an hour before bed

Something that really opened my eyes was learning about how different forms of minerals affect absorption.

For instance, magnesium citrate tends to be better absorbed than magnesium oxide, especially in us over 50s – and calcium citrate usually works better than calcium carbonate if you’re taking acid-reducing medications.

I always tell people to start with lower doses and gradually increase them while monitoring how they feel. Keep a simple journal noting any changes in energy, sleep, or digestion as you adjust.

Remember, mineral needs can change based on medications, stress levels, and even the season. Don’t be afraid to adjust your routine accordingly, but always check with your healthcare provider before making significant changes, especially if you’re taking medications.

Have you had your mineral levels tested recently? I found that getting my baseline measurements from a blood test incredibly helpful in determining my optimal dosages.

It cost me less than $200. Then, regular monitoring helps ensure you’re staying within safe and effective ranges.

For a deeper dive into this subject, you can find out more in my anti-aging supplements guide.

Anti-Aging Supplement Dosage Guidelines

I’ve learned that getting the dosage right can make all the difference between seeing real results and just wasting your money on expensive supplements.

CoQ10 Optimal Dosage Ranges

How much?	For general health maintenance: 100-200mg daily
	For those on statin medications: 200-300mg daily
	For targeted cardiovascular support: 200-400mg daily
	For enhanced energy production: 200-300mg daily
Optimal time?	With food (your largest meal of the day)

Let’s start with CoQ10, because this one really opened my eyes to the importance of proper dosing.

Around age 50, our bodies produce about 50% less CoQ10 than we did in our 20s. Most seniors need between 100-400mg daily to see real benefits.

Certain medications can affect how much CoQ10 you need. Statins, beta-blockers and some antidepressants can lower CoQ10 levels.

The timing of CoQ10 can make a difference. Moving your dose to after the fattiest meal of the day, can improve absorption dramatically.

Always start at the lower end of the dosage range and gradually increase while monitoring your response. And, if you’re on any medications, especially blood thinners or blood pressure medications, consult with your healthcare provider before starting CoQ10 supplementation.

I have more on coq10 benefits for seniors if you’re interested in going deeper.

Resveratrol Recommended Amounts

How much?	250mg to 1000mg daily
Optimal time?	Lunchtime for over 50s

Did you know that your body only absorbs about 1% of the resveratrol you take?

The sweet spot for most seniors is between 250-1000mg daily. Taking it with some fat and quercetin-rich foods (like apples or onions) can boost absorption significantly.

Ideally, you want to split it into two doses because reservatrol has a relatively short half-life in your body (about 4-6 hours) – so, breakfast and evening meal.

It’s not like taking an aspirin for a headache – you need to maintain regular dosing for at least 2-3 months to see optimal benefits.

Here’s an important caution: if you’re taking blood thinners or other medications, start with a lower dose and consult your healthcare provider.

NAD+ Supplement Dosing Protocol

How much?	250-1000mg daily (starting dose: 250mg)
Optimal time?	In the morning to boost energy and metabolism

By the time we reach 50, our natural NAD+ levels have typically dropped to about half what they were in our 20s.

Your NAD+ levels naturally peak in the morning and decline throughout the day. That’s why I typically recommend taking your main dose first thing in the morning, ideally 30 minutes before breakfast.

If you’re taking a second dose, take it by early afternoon to avoid potential sleep disruption.

Some people are more sensitive to NAD+ precursors than others. I always recommend starting with a lower dose and gradually increasing it while monitoring your response.

Signs that your dosage might need adjustment include:

• Excessive energy or difficulty sleeping (might need to lower dose or adjust timing)
• Flushing or nausea (might need to reduce dose)
• No noticeable improvements in energy or cognitive function (might need to increase dose)
• Headaches (might need to adjust timing or reduce dose)

Hydration significantly affects how well your body processes NAD+ precursors. I always recommend taking supplements with a full glass of water and maintaining good hydration throughout the day.

Something often overlooked is the importance of complementary nutrients. Combining NAD+ precursors with resveratrol (100-150mg) can enhance their effectiveness.

Remember, while NAD+ supplementation can be incredibly beneficial, it’s not a quick fix. You should expect to see improvements within 2-4 weeks of consistent supplementation.

Collagen Peptides Dosage Guide

How much?	2.5–15 grams of collagen peptides per day
Optimal time?	On an empty stomach (30 mins before food)

Collagen supplementation is interesting because our natural production declines by about 1-1.5% each year after age 30, making proper dosing especially important as we age.

The sweet spot is typically reported to be 10-15g daily, split into two doses. Taking it with vitamin C (a supplement or a citrus fruit) can boost its effectiveness dramatically.

Here’s what I’ve learned about optimal dosing ranges:

• For general maintenance: 5-10g daily
• For skin health support: 2.5-5g twice daily
• For joint support: 10-15g daily
• For bone health: 10-15g daily
• For muscle maintenance: 15-20g daily

The type of collagen peptides matters as much as the dosage. Hydrolyzed collagen is better, as it’s broken down into smaller molecules that your body can absorb more efficiently.

Something often overlooked is the importance of protein intake alongside collagen supplements. I know, collagen is a protein! But adding more supports collagen synthesis in your body.

Quality matters! Look for products that specify the collagen types they contain (Types I, II, and III are the most common) and their source. Marine collagen often has smaller peptide sizes, which can mean better absorption.

Timing and Cycling Recommendations

I’ve learned that not all supplements should be taken continuously. Some nutrients work better when you give your body regular breaks from them.

Here’s what I’ve found works best for cycling various supplements:

Continuous Use (no cycling needed):

• Basic vitamins (A, C, D, E, K)
• Essential minerals
• Omega-3s
• Probiotics

Periodic Cycling (4-6 weeks on, 1-2 weeks off):

• Adaptogenic herbs
• Some antioxidants
• Iron (unless prescribed for deficiency)
• High-dose zinc

Seasonal Cycling:

• Immune support supplements (higher in winter)
• Vitamin D (higher in winter months)
• Antioxidants (higher during stress periods)

Cycling more specialized supplements can prevent tolerance buildup and maintain their effectiveness. Think of it like crop rotation in farming – giving the soil (your body) time to reset can improve overall results.

Safety Considerations and Drug Interactions

As we get older, we tend to take more medications. And this is an area where careful timing and awareness can be crucial for us over 50s taking both supplements and medications.

Common Supplement-Medication Interactions

Here are the most critical interactions I’ve identified through my research:

Blood thinning medications:
Warfarin, in particular, can interact with several supplements in ways that might surprise you. If you take high doses of vitamin E with warfarin, both substances help your blood clot, potentially amplifying each other’s effects.

Blood Pressure Medications:
I’ve found that certain supplements can either enhance or reduce the effectiveness of blood pressure medications. For instance, magnesium supplementation might increase the blood pressure-lowering effect of medications, potentially leading to levels that are too low. I always recommend taking blood pressure medications at least 2 hours apart from mineral supplements.

Diabetes Medications:
Cinnamon supplements, often taken for blood sugar support, can actually enhance the effect of diabetes medications. Space them out by several hours to avoid low blood sugar levels.

Thyroid Medications:
They’re particularly sensitive to interference from supplements. Calcium, iron, and magnesium supplements can significantly reduce thyroid medication absorption. I always recommend taking thyroid medications first thing in the morning and waiting at least 4 hours before taking any mineral supplements.

Antidepressants:
One of the most important interactions I’ve researched involves St. John’s Wort, a common supplement for mood support. It can interact with numerous medications, particularly SSRIs, potentially leading to serious side effects. I’ve learned that it’s best to avoid this supplement entirely if you’re on antidepressants.

Remember, certain supplements can affect laboratory test results. I always recommend informing your healthcare provider about all supplements you’re taking, especially before any blood work.

It’s important to know that interaction effects can be cumulative and may not show up immediately. Sometimes, it takes weeks or even months for certain interactions to become apparent.

You can find out more in my article on supplement interactions for seniors.

Signs of Incorrect Dosage

Here are the common signs I’ve observed for excessive supplement intake:

Vitamin Excess Signs:
Too much vitamin B complex shows up as bright yellow urine and sometimes skin flushing. Too much vitamin C might cause digestive upset and diarrhea. Excessive vitamin D can lead to confusion and muscle weakness. I’ve seen how these symptoms often develop gradually, which is why keeping track of any new symptoms is so important.

Mineral Excess Signs:
Iron excess often shows up as constipation and stomach pain. Too much calcium might cause kidney stones and constipation. I’ve noticed that selenium excess has a very distinctive sign – a garlic odor on the breath or a metallic taste in the mouth.

On the flip side, insufficient dosage has its own set of signals:

• Persistent fatigue despite adequate sleep
• Muscle weakness or cramping
• Slow wound healing
• Brittle nails or hair loss
• Mood changes or irritability

Unhelpfully, signs of incorrect dosage could actually be an absorption issue.

Age can significantly affect how your body responds to supplements. What worked in your 50s might need adjustment in your 60s or 70s.

Regular blood work and check-ups become increasingly important as you age to ensure your supplement routine continues to meet your changing needs.

When to Adjust Dosages

Here are specific situations that often signal the need for dosage adjustment:

Changes in Health Status:
When you develop a new health condition or recover from an illness, your nutrient needs often change. For instance, after a period of illness, you might temporarily need higher doses of vitamin C and zinc to support immune function recovery.

Changes in Medication:
Starting or stopping medications can significantly impact your supplement needs. Blood pressure medications, for example, can affect mineral balance, particularly potassium and magnesium. I always recommend reviewing your supplement routine whenever there’s a medication change.

Changes in Diet:
If you make significant changes to your eating habits, your supplement needs might change too.

Physical Activity Changes:
Changes in your exercise routine or activity level can affect your nutrient needs. I’ve observed that seniors who become more active often need to increase their magnesium and electrolyte supplementation, while those who become less active might need to reduce certain supplement doses.

Stress Periods:
During times of increased stress, whether physical or emotional, your body often needs more B vitamins and vitamin C.

Supplement Timing with Medications

Here’s what I’ve learned about specific medication types and their supplement interactions:

Blood Thinners (like warfarin):
Be especially careful with supplements that can affect blood clotting, such as vitamin E, fish oil, or ginger supplements. It’s best to take these supplements at least 4 hours apart from blood thinners and maintain consistent daily doses.

Antibiotics:
These need special attention because they can be affected by mineral supplements. I always recommend taking antibiotics at least 2 hours apart from any mineral supplements, especially calcium, magnesium, or zinc.

Acid-Reducing Medications:
These medications can significantly impact nutrient absorption. If you’re taking a PPI (proton pump inhibitor) or H2 blocker, it’s often best to take most supplements at a different time of day. I’ve found that taking vitamin B12, iron, and calcium supplements at least 4 hours after these medications improves their absorption.

How to Adjust Dosages Based on Individual Needs

I’ve discovered that personalizing dosages can make the difference between supplements working effectively or just creating expensive pee!

Weight and Gender Factors

Let’s start with how weight affects supplement needs. Think of your body like a house – a larger house needs more resources to maintain it properly.

For instance, vitamin D requirements often increase with body weight because this fat-soluble vitamin gets distributed throughout fat tissue.

For every 50 pounds over ideal body weight, vitamin D needs often increase by about 1000-2000 IU daily. However, this isn’t a linear relationship for all supplements. Some nutrients don’t need to be adjusted as much based on weight, while others need more significant adjustments.

Gender differences create another fascinating layer of consideration. Women and men have different nutrient needs based on their hormonal profiles and body composition.

Here are some key gender-specific considerations I’ve observed:

For Women:

• Higher calcium needs (1200mg daily for women over 50)
• Greater iron needs before menopause
• Often need more magnesium due to hormonal factors
• May need additional B-complex vitamins, especially B6

For Men:

• Higher zinc requirements (11mg vs 8mg for women)
• Often need more protein-supporting supplements
• May need more selenium (55μg daily)
• Often benefit from saw palmetto or other prostate-supporting supplements after 50

Body composition matters, too, not just overall weight. People with more muscle mass often need higher doses of certain supplements, particularly minerals like magnesium and potassium, to support muscle function.

Lifestyle Impact on Dosages

Exercise and physical activity create fascinating changes in our nutrient needs. When you exercise regularly, your body requires more of certain nutrients to support muscle recovery and energy production.

Stress levels have a profound impact on nutrient absorption and utilization. During periods of high stress, your body burns through certain nutrients more quickly, particularly B vitamins and vitamin C.

Sleep patterns affect both nutrient needs and absorption timing. Poor sleep can increase oxidative stress in the body, requiring higher doses of antioxidants.

Here’s how specific lifestyle factors affect supplement needs:

For Regular Exercisers:

• Higher magnesium needs (often 400-500mg daily)
• Increased electrolyte requirements
• Greater protein and amino acid support
• Additional antioxidant support

For High-Stress Lifestyles:

• Increased B-complex vitamin needs
• Higher vitamin C requirements (often 1000-2000mg daily)
• Additional adaptogenic herb support
• Greater magnesium needs

For Poor Sleepers:

• Timing of magnesium becomes important
• May need higher doses of calming nutrients
• Often benefit from timed vitamin B dosing
• Might require additional antioxidant support

Something often overlooked is how alcohol consumption affects nutrient needs. Even moderate alcohol intake can increase requirements for B vitamins and minerals.

Travel and changing time zones create another layer of complexity. When you travel frequently, your body might need additional immune support and carefully timed supplements to maintain effectiveness. I worked with a retired couple who traveled often, and we had to create a flexible supplement schedule that could adapt to different time zones while maintaining consistent dosing.

Environmental factors play a significant role too. Living in a polluted area might increase your need for antioxidants, while spending lots of time indoors could increase vitamin D requirements.

The Bottom Line

Understanding proper supplement dosages is crucial for maintaining health and safety as we age. Remember to start with recommended doses, monitor your response, and always consult healthcare providers about potential interactions.

The biggest mistake I see people make? Trying to copy someone else’s supplement routine exactly. What works for one person might not work for another, even if they seem similar on paper. It’s like trying to wear someone else’s prescription glasses – it just doesn’t work!