3 Essential Supplements Men Should Take Regularly
Supplements aren't just for bodybuilders. When it comes to men's health, we could all use a little boost here and there. Here's a look at three key supplements that every guy should take to promote a long, healthy life.
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When it comes to supplements for men, “a lot of guys associate them with body building,” says Arielle Levitan, MD, co-author of The Vitamin Solution. However, she adds, “all men should consider supplements.” They can enhance heart health, support healthy muscle mass throughout life, prevent mental decline with age, and boost overall health and well-being. These are her top 3 recommendations for men:
Magnesium
This mineral enhances muscle strength and function, making it a key supplement for men. Magnesium also helps maintain healthy blood pressure and good heart function, and to prevent headaches and irritable bowel syndrome. For anyone taking statins to lower cholesterol, it can help reduce side effects.
Take: 200–500 mg daily. You may need the higher amount if you take diuretics that deplete the mineral, or if you have high blood pressure, migraines, or digestive issues. Loose stools mean you’ve taken too much.
Vitamin D
Bone health is just as important for men as it is for women, so vitamin D also makes the cut for best men’s supplements. This vitamin also enhances the immune system, the heart, and muscle strength, and it helps to protect against dementia and cancer.
Take: 1,000–2,000 IU (25–50 mcg). Take the higher amount if you live in a northern climate, have dark skin, are obese, get headaches, suffer from digestive issues such as celiac disease or inflammatory bowel disease, or have had gastric bypass surgery.
Omega-3s: EPA and DHA
Heart health is one of men’s top concerns, which lands omega-3s squarely on the list of best supplements for men. In addition to helping prevent heart problems, they can improve and stabilize mood, enhance brain function, and reduce inflammation.
Take: 1,000 mg of a combination of EPA and DHA in fish oil or in a vegan form from algae. If you experience an aftertaste or stomach upset from fish oil, split the dose and take it with food.
