The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics recommends that men who are missing key vitamins from their diets, lack regular physical activity or adequate amounts of sleep take a multivitamin. Men specifically require a multivitamin that contains some of the following.
Vitamin A
Found in cantaloupe, carrots, eggs and milk, vitamin A (along with carotenoids, a version of vitamin A found in plant sources) is important for eye health. According to the CDC, only 10% of US adults meet the vegetable intake recommendations. Taking vitamin A in a multivitamin can help bridge this gap in men’s diets. Adult men are recommended to obtain about 900 micrograms daily.
Vitamin C
Most commonly found in citrus fruits, vitamin C plays an important role in collagen production, protein metabolism and immunity. Again, if men aren’t eating enough fruits and vegetables, a vitamin supplement is encouraged. Men are recommended to obtain 90 milligrams a day.
Vitamin D
Aiding in bone health, vitamin D is obtained from the sun’s UV rays. If men aren’t spending enough time outside and in the sun, a supplement is required for optimal health. Adult men are recommended to obtain 15 micrograms daily.
Calcium
Coming hand-in-hand with vitamin D, calcium is also necessary for bone health. Calcium also aids in healthy muscle and heart function. A much larger amount of calcium is needed daily. Adult men need 1,000 milligrams of calcium daily and an extra 200 milligrams after the age of 70.
Magnesium
Found in nuts, seeds and leafy vegetables, magnesium is essential for regulating chemical reactions, muscles and nerves, bone development and energy production. Men should obtain 420 milligrams of magnesium daily.
Zinc
Although the body requires only a small amount of zinc, it’s an essential nutrient for DNA, cell and healthy tissue production. Zinc supplements also improve prostate health. This nutrient is most commonly found in meat and fish. If you’re following a vegetarian or vegan diet, a zinc supplement is recommended. It’s recommended that men consume 11 milligrams of zinc daily.
Missing any of these important vitamins or minerals in your diet? You might need to consider investing in a multivitamin. The best multivitamin for men is one you will take regularly, so it is important to build good habits. We have chosen a few brands we think will get you on the right track. To create this curated list, we took into account price, quality, certifications and vitamin and mineral quantities.
