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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention1 states that nearly half of all men take at least one supplement, with the most popular variety being multivitamins. The problem is that there are thousands of different supplements on the market today, and each of them wants you to believe they’re the best for men’s health. 

If you’re looking for an unbiased account of the best supplements for men, we’ve got you covered. In addition to consulting dietary and nutritional experts, our team of certified personal trainers, competitive triathletes, and certified sports nutrition coaches have tested dozens of products to find out which ones actually work and are beneficial for men’s health. 

Whether we’re looking at protein powder, creatine, or B12 supplements, we take these four factors into consideration when assessing workout supplements for men:

  • Formulation: Does it contain research-backed ingredients that help men’s health?
  • Dosages: Is there enough of the important ingredients in the supplements?
  • Taste: If flavored, is it liked by our testers and customer reviewers? If unflavored, is it truly unflavored or is there a weird taste?
  • Solubility/Swallowability: If it’s a powder, can it easily mix into water or other liquids? For pills, can they be easily swallowed?
  • Price: How much does it cost, and is it worth it?

To be clear, we’re not saying men need all of these supplements, as some might need one and others might not require any at all. Always consult with a physician or nutritionist before introducing any supplements into your daily regimen. 

Medical disclaimer: This article is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. For health advice, contact a licensed healthcare provider. GGR also recommends choosing a product that has been third-party tested for quality.

The 9 Best Supplements for Men’s Health

Best Hydration Supplement for Men: Transparent Labs Hydrate V3

Good for: Improved hydration and overall health 

Hydration Supplement

Transparent Labs Hydrate V3

GGR Score: 4.5 starstarstarstarstar

Product Highlights

  • Includes taurine to help performance
  • Naturally sweetened
  • No artificial colors or flavors
  • Contains SenactivTM for recovery

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Low cost per serving
  • Easily absorbed electrolytes
  • Aides in muscle recovery
  • Subscribe & Save available

Cons

  • Only one flavor option
  • Contains the allergen tree nuts

Bottom Line

At an extremely low per serving cost, Transparent Labs Hydrate V3 is a great option for anyone looking to try out electrolytes or anyone looking for clean ingredients without the hefty price tag.

Transparent Labs Hydrate V3 is essentially a more sophisticated and better formulated version of Gatorade in that it’s meant to rehydrate you and replenish crucial electrolytes that are vital to bodily functions and overall health. 

This electrolyte powder contains 500 milligrams of sodium, which is lost through sweat during intense exercise. 

Certified personal trainer and GGR performance editor Anthony O’Reilly rates this supplement a 5 out of 5 when it comes to effects—”I notice a drastic increase in my energy levels when I take it before long endurance exercises or prolonged weightlifting sessions,” he says. “It’s also great for those days when you come back from sweaty summer runs.”

The flavor is another 5 out of 5. Anthony describes it as a “more concentrated Hawaiian Punch.”

Sodium is needed in the body to maintain fluid balance, or the amount of water needed by cells and other organisms to maintain overall control—imagine fluid balance as a see-saw that you want to keep perfectly balanced at all times, and if it goes too much in one direction you could experience health issues. 

The 500 milligram dose in Hydrate V3 falls right at the sweet spot recommended by the American College of Sports Medicine5 for those who engage in exercise that lasts longer than an hour. 

An image of Transparent Labs Hydrate V3

Another key ingredient is “Senactiv® adaptogenic extract,” which was created by NuLiv Science to support increased muscle energy and preservation through cellular mechanisms. Adaptogens are things like ashwagandha that are purported to have mental health benefits. 

St. Louis-based registered dietitian and GGR expert panel member Sydney Lappe and this writer both requested scientific papers on Senactiv from NuLiv Science, but as of this writing had not received any information about the adaptogen extract. 

Check out our other picks for the best electrolyte drink, including our budget-friendly electrolyte drink pick Pedialyte Sport.

Dose InstructionsMix 1 scoop with 8-12 oz of water 1-3 times per day
Electrolyte Formula500 mg sodium, 250 mg potassium, 84 mg calcium, 50 mg magnesium
Form and Flavor(s)Powder (Tropical Punch)
Cost $28.99/40 servings = $0.72/serving (or $26.09 with subscribe and save offer)

Best Multivitamin for Men Over 50: Ritual Essential for Men 50+

Good for: Men over 50 who are looking to maintain optimal nutrition 

For Men Over 50

Ritual Essential for Men Multivitamin 50+

GGR Score: 3.5 starstarstarstarstar

Product Highlights

  • Scientifically developed multivitamin for men 50 years and older
  • Vegan, gluten- and major allergen-free, non-GMO, and no artificial colors 
  • 10 ingredients to support health

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Made traceable with visible supply chain
  • Free shipping and money back guarantee
  • Delayed release capsule

Cons

  • Very limited reviews
  • Comparably expensive at more than $1 per serving
  • Only available from company website
  • Customer complaints of fish oil taste

Bottom Line

Ritual Essential for Men Multivitamin 50+ is a supplement that is easy on the stomach and made with traceable ingredients for men 50 years old or older.

A May 2019 review8 found that men 50 and over generally eat less food and, as a result, have more nutritional deficiencies than when they were younger. Ritual Essential for Men 50+ is designed to meet those needs with ingredients that may also support healthy testosterone levels. 

Zinc is one of those ingredients, and a February 2015 review9 also found it may have anti-aging effects (though more research is needed to back up those claims). 

It also contains vitamin K, which a September 2019 review10 said could help with blood and cardiovascular health in older adults and may alleviate some symptoms of osteoporosis (weakened bones). Stronger bones can reduce the risk of injuries in older adults, especially those who are prone to falls. 

Finally, an April 2019 study11 linked Vitamin A with a decrease in age-related vision loss.  

An image of Ritual multivitamin.

Anthony O’Reilly, a certified nutrition coach and GGR performance editor, is in his thirties but he still saw some benefits from this supplement for men older than 50. “I’m not sure what it was but I just felt more focused and alert throughout the day when I took this,” he says. Anthony wasn’t a fan of the mint-flavored capsules, but they still got a 5 out of 5 for swallowability because you only need two capsules and they’re pretty small.

We like Ritual because they have a traceable supply chain, meaning you can find out exactly where they source their vitamins and minerals by visiting their website.

Looking for more recommendations? Check out our roundup of the best multivitamins for men. 

Notable ingredients Vitamin A, vitamin D3, vitamin E, folate, vitamin B12, magnesium, zinc, boron, omega-3 DHA, vitamin K2  
Dose2 capsules
Price per serving$1.30
Third-party tested?Yes

Best Protein Powder for Men: Legion Whey+

Good for: Those looking for a high-protein supplement that tastes good 

Best Protein for Men

Legion Whey+

GGR Score: 4 starstarstarstarstar

Product Highlights

  • Sourced from small dairy farms in Ireland
  • Over 5 g of BCAAs per serving
  • Non-GMO and animal welfare approved
  • Third-party tested for banned substances

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Low in carbs and fat
  • Natural ingredients
  • Money-back guarantee
  • Made with ethically-sourced milk
  • Lots of flavor options

Cons

  • Comparably high cost per serving
  • May be clumpy when mixed
  • Some flavors have mixed reviews

Bottom Line

Legion Whey+ is a clean, sustainable protein powder that also is macro-friendly and a great option for anyone looking for a clean protein supplement.

Legion Whey+ was an easy choice for the best protein powder for men because it’s third-party tested, meaning it’s been checked for heavy metals, toxins, and banned substances. Furthermore, it’s a natural protein powder that bears a truly grass-fed certification so you know the cows that produced the dairy ate what nature intended.

That’s not just marketing mumbo-jumbo. Registered dietitian Laila Ouldibbat points out that grass-fed cattle have higher concentrations of phytonutrients that have been linked with improved cardiovascular health and a decreased risk of cancers, both of which were backed up by a February 2021 review.

Plus, this thing tastes really freaking good. Anthony O’Reilly, a certified personal trainer and GGR performance editor, tried the Cinnamon Cereal flavor and rated it a 4.5 out of 5. He says it reminds him of a bowl of Cinnamon Toast Crunch that’s fully absorbed into the milk, and the only reason he docked a half-point is because it’s not as sweet as he would’ve liked.

Bag of Legion Whey+ and shaker bottle

You have 16 flavors to choose from, including an unflavored option. It’s difficult to give an overall formulation score since the protein, carb, and fats content varies by flavor, but in general Legion earns a 4 out of 5—some flavors have higher amounts of carbs and fats, but you’re getting anywhere from 21 to 23 grams of protein per scoop regardless of which one you pick.

Legion contains some additional ingredients, which we’re generally not a fan of but in this case they’re all natural. There are some natural sweeteners used in some flavors, so check the ingredients list to make sure there’s nothing that could cause digestive issues for you.

However—and here’s the downside—Legion is a pretty expensive protein powder, at around $2.00 per serving. If you’re looking for the best budget-friendly protein powder, our choice is Optimum Nutrition 100% Gold Standard Whey.

You can read more about Legion Whey+ in our Legion Whey protein review, and, for more choices, check out our roundup of the best protein powders for men

Price per serving$2.00 
Flavors16
Protein21-23 g (varies by flavor) 
Carbs2-6 g (varies by flavor) 
Fat 0-2 g (varies by flavor) 

Best Multivitamin for Men: Onnit Total Human

Good for: People who need to fill nutritional gaps or have certain vitamin deficiencies  

Best Multivitamin

Onnit Total Human

GGR Score: 4 starstarstarstarstar

Product Highlights

  • Complete supplement packs 
  • Day and night packs of supplements 
  • All-in-one product

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Subscribe and save
  • Combination of Onnit’s best products
  • Day pack for energy and night pack for better sleep
  • High dosages of vitamins and minerals

Cons

  • Customers complain of receiving only partial doses of multiple supplements
  • Relatively expensive
  • More than 15 pills per day

Bottom Line

Onnit Total Human is an expensive supplement pack with a lot of pills, designed for people that want everything they need in one place and want to use a variety of Onnit’s products.

This isn’t your typical multivitamin that only requires one or two capsules—you’ll actually be taking 16 pills per day. We know that’s a lot, but Onnit Total Human’s day and night packs are designed to meet a number of nutritional needs with research-backed ingredients and doses.

For example, you get a daily dose of Krill oil, which a September 2020 meta-analysis6 found was just as effective in supporting healthy blood pressure and heart health as fish oil. 

Jacob Penner, a USA Weightlifting Level 2 Coach and member of GGR’s expert panel, tested this multivitamin for a month before writing our full Onnit Total Human review. He says one of Total Human’s most potent health benefits is increased cognitive function, or alertness and ability to focus. 

“I truly feel very good when I take these, and if I miss a day, I notice that I don’t feel as good,” he says, scoring it a 5 out of 5 for effects. He and other reviewers have noticed some “vivid dreams” while taking Total Human, which may be due to the high amount of B-vitamins, though it wasn’t enough to scare him off the multivitamin for men.

B-vitamins “are absolutely essential for every aspect of brain function,” according to a January 2016 review7.

taking onnit total human

The one major downside is that a 30-day supply costs $138, or $4.59 per day, but that’s about the same price as you’d pay if you were to purchase all those supplements separately. 

If, however, you’re looking for the best budget-friendly multivitamin we’d suggest NatureMade Multi for Him (15 cents per serving with high doses of many vitamins and minerals). 

Notable ingredients B-vitamins, spirulina, Alpha BRAIN, Shroom TECH Sport, krill oil, vitamin E, copper,  zinc
Dose1 day pack (8 pills) and 1 night pack (8 pills) 
Price per serving $4.59 
Third-party testing?N/A

Best Carbohydrate Supplement for Men: XWERKS Motion

Good for: Runners or men who are looking for a supplement to keep them in motion

Best Carb Supplement

XWERKS Motion

GGR Score: 4 starstarstarstarstar

Product Highlights

  • Backed by clinical trials 
  • Designed to help you perform longer
  • Includes BCAAs and cluster Dextrin
  • Replaces energy levels fast

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Doesn’t cause stomach discomfort
  • Multipurpose formula
  • Backed by science
  • Sugar free
  • Gluten and dairy free

Cons

  • Hard to mix
  • Contains artificial sweetener

Bottom Line

XWERKS Motion is an electrolyte mix that has BCAAs and cluster dextrin, meaning it can fuel you through a workout and also help you recover. With a mid-range per serving cost, this product may be worth a try for those looking for a multipurpose supplement.

XWERKS Motion is an appropriate name, since motion is exactly what you’ll get after ingesting a scoop of this carbohydrate supplement. It contains 28 grams of cluster dextrin, a carb that quickly replenishes energy levels and is easily absorbed by the body. It also contains electrolytes and branched-chain amino acids to help fuel your workout or morning run.

Pouring XWERKS Motion into a cup

GGR Performance Editor and certified personal trainer Anthony O’Reilly uses this before morning workouts when he doesn’t feel like eating but still wants to feel fueled. “It’s one of the few carb supplements that doesn’t make me feel bloated and actually provides energy,” Anthony says, rating it a 5 out of 5 for effects and the same for solubility (Anthony claims you can use a spoon to mix this stuff).

Price per serving$1.63, $1.55 with subscription savings
Carbs per serving28g
Key ingredients Cluster dextrin, BCAAs, electrolytes
FlavorsRaspberry Lemonade and Watermelon

Best Creatine for Men: Nutricost Creatine Monohydrate

Good for: Men looking to build muscle with an easily absorbed creatine supplement 

Best Creatine

Nutricost Creatine Monohydrate

GGR Score: 4.3 starstarstarstarstar

Product Highlights

  • Powder creatine monohydrate supplement 
  • 5 g of creatine per serving 
  • Improved strength and muscle growth 
  • Injury prevention and cognitive and bone health

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Subscribe and save 15%
  • Non-GMO and gluten-free
  • Manufactured in cGMP-compliant facility
  • Affordable at under $0.40 per serving
  • Unflavored variety have 1 ingredient, micronized creatine monohydrate

Cons

  • Some flavors sold out
  • Flavored versions contain sucralose which may cause stomach upset
  • Mixed reviews on mixability
  • Mixed reviews on taste

Bottom Line

Nutricost Creatine Powder contains 5 grams of creatine per serving and is available in both flavored and unflavored varieties. Nutricost shares that their creatine supplement can help with muscle building and strength, injury prevention, and cognitive and bone health. This supplement has mixed reviews on taste and mixability.

This creatine powder is micronized which makes it easier for your body to break down and easier to break down when mixed with liquid. We love this creatine supplement because not only is it affordable, it is versatile too. 

Registered Dietitian Perry Nix noted that each serving of Nutricost creatine monohydrate has 5 grams of creatine which is enough to keep muscle stores saturated for improved strength and muscle massThis is also clinically recommended dose of creatine for strength and muscle recovery. 

There are no other ingredients in the unflavored version of this supplement, just straight creatine. Creatine is found in common foods but is often supplemented due to its ability to encourage your muscles to produce more energy during intense exercise as well as its ability to promote muscle growth and enhanced performance. 

Container of Nutricost creatine

If you are someone who worries about side effects when trying a new supplement we don’t think that will be much of a concern with this one. Both of our certified nutrition coach team members, Frieda Johnson and Anthony O’Reilly, reported that they did not experience any negative side effects when trying this product. GGR rated Nutricost Creatine Monohydrate a 5 out of 5 for both effects and formulation.

When purchasing, have your choice between 100 or 200 servings per container and while even the 100-serving container works out to be less than 25 cents a serving, the 200-serving container gets you down to 19 cents a serving. If you know you’re going to use it consistently you will definitely want to take advantage of the bulk discount and buy the bigger container. Less money spent on creatine means more money to invest in a new pair of men’s gym shoes.

We really like this creatine as our top pick for men as well as our most budget-friendly pick but you can see our top picks for best creatine for additional recommendations. 

Read more of our thoughts about this product in our full  Nutricost creatine review.

Price per serving$0.22
IngredientsCreatine monohydrate
Flavors Unflavored

Best Pre-Workout Supplement for Men: Kaged Pre-Kaged Elite

Good for: Men looking for an effective pre-workout to help fuel their training regimen  

Best Pre-Workout for Men

Kaged Pre-Kaged Elite

GGR Score: 4 starstarstarstarstar

Product Highlights

  • Pre-workout formulated with creatine monohydrate and creatine nitrate
  • 5 grams of total creatine
  • Expensive—$3 per serving
  • Third-party tested
  • 3 flavors: Strawberry Lemonade, Fruit Punch, Glacier Grape

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Pre-workout and creatine in one
  • Contains 5 grams of total creatine
  • Third-party tested

Cons

  • Expensive

Bottom Line

If you're looking for a product that combines a pre-workout with creatine, Kaged Pre-Kaged Elite might be a good choice.

Kaged Pre-Kaged Elite’s ingredient list is about the length of a fantasy novel compared to other pre-workout supplements, but after looking into each it’s clear that every one serves a unique purpose. While the 1.5 grams of creatine is below the recommended dose of 3-5 grams to help support muscle strength and endurance2, researchers found that even low doses had benefits such as improved body composition2.

Certified personal trainer and GGR performance editor Anthony O’Reilly calls this his “PR pre-workout.”

RELATED: Creatine vs Pre-Workout

Another notable ingredient is taurine, which a November 2012 review18 said “plays an important role as a basic factor for maintaining cellular integrity in the heart, muscle, retina, and throughout the CNS,” and stated that it could act as a neurotransmitter (the chemical messengers sent by your brain to command bodily functions). 

Certified personal trainer and GGR performance editor Anthony O’Reilly calls this his “PR pre-workout,” or the pre-workout supplement he takes before a big lift. “Actually, this isn’t a pre-workout—it’s a magical elixir that just makes you stronger,” Anthony says. “In all seriousness, I feel invincible after downing a shaker bottle of this stuff.”

The Orange Mango flavor gets a 4 out of 5 on taste, but only because Anthony got more orange than mango—the orange flavor was very good and reminds him of an old Irish ice cream treat called Split (imagine a creamsicle on a stick).

There’s 274 milligrams of caffeine, which is about three 8-ounce coffees, and we don’t have to tell you about the benefits of caffeine in pre-workout—especially if you’re someone who works out early in the morning. The International Society of Sports Nutrition in March 201819 said caffeine could also help support increased muscle power and strength. 

Kaged Pre-Kaged elite

Lastly, there’s a very high amount of B-Vitamins, including more than 41,000% of your daily value of Vitamin B12—but don’t worry, the National Institute of Health’s (NIH) Office of Dietary Supplements20 states that there’s no such thing as an dangerous dose of Vitamin B12 because the body does not hold excess amounts (i.e., anything the body doesn’t use is flushed down the toilet…literally). 

The reason they add that much B12 is because the vitamin is used to help deliver oxygen to your muscles. 

C4 Pre-Workout is a great budget-friendly and beginner’s pre-workout, but we have many other picks for the best pre-workout for men.  

Price per servingAround $2.25
Key ingredients Citrulline, beta-alanine, creatine, caffeine
FlavorsGrape, Fruit Punch, Pink Lemonade, Berry Blast, Krisp Apple, Orange Crush, Cherry Bomb

Best Fiber Supplement for Men: Transparent Labs Prebiotic Aquatic Greens + Fiber

Good for: Those looking to improve their overall digestion and gut health 

Best Fiber Supplement

Transparent Labs Prebiotic Greens

GGR Score: 3.5 starstarstarstarstar

Product Highlights

  • Combines algae greens and prebiotic fibers to improve gut health
  • Each serving has 3 grams of spirulina, 3 grams of chlorella, 3 grams of organic acacia fiber, 3 grams of organic green banana flour, and 1 gram of organic Jerusalem artichoke fiber
  • Gluten-free
  • Gut-flora-friendly greens drink
  • Available in unflavored or in Peach Mango flavor

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Packed with fiber, gut-flora-friendly greens, and mineral-dense veggies
  • Effectively works to improve gut health
  • Combines algae greens and prebiotic fibers
  • 60-day money-back guarantee

Cons

  • Tastes bitter to some

Bottom Line

Combining an algae greens blend with prebiotic fibers, Prebiotic Greens is intended to improve digestion and health.

Many fiber supplements will just help with improving your bowel movements (and don’t get us wrong, that’s very important), but Transparent Labs Prebiotic Aquatic Greens + Fiber takes it a step further by supporting overall gut health. 

Every scoop contains 3 grams each of spirulina and chlorella, both of which are so-called “superfoods” that can help reduce inflammation in the body due to their high antioxidant content. An August 2020 meta-analysis12 found many benefits of chlorella, including “a large amount of good quality protein, dietary fibers, and polyunsaturated fatty acids,” and improved immune system function. 

transparent labs prebiotic bottle in hand best supplements for men

Amanda Capritto, a competitive triathlete and certified sports nutrition coach, said she was happy with the product. “No bloating or digestive issues,” she says. “Helps the gut feel better.”

Amanda rated the Peach Mango flavor a 4 out of 5. “it’s sweet, but not overly, while still being a bit earthy,” she says. “It is sweetened with stevia, which you can taste, but it’s not off-putting like in some products.” She says adding it to orange juice can help with the taste.

One downside of this product, however, is that both spirulina and chlorella are algae, so some of the micronutrients in them, specifically Vitamin B12, may not be as bioactive—meaning the plant-based sources aren’t as easily absorbed by the body as animal-based nutrients, according to a June 2022 study13

This fiber supplement also contains prebiotic fibers—sourced from organic acacia fiber, green banana flour, and Jerusalem artichoke fiber—to treat digestive issues such as constipation. 

For a budget-friendly fiber supplement, go for Benefiber Unflavored Daily Fiber Powder or check out our best fiber supplement roundup

Dose instructionsMix 1 scoop with 8 oz of water, juice, or your favorite beverage. Consume up to 3 times daily or as directed by your physician.
Main Fiber Sources(s)Spirulina, chlorella, acacia fiber, Jerusalem artichoke fiber, green banana flour
Amount of Fiber Per Serving4 g
Cost$45.99 / 30 servings = $1.53 per serving

Best Gut Health Supplement for Men: Biotics 8

Good for: Men looking to relieve digestive issues and improve their overall gut health 

Best Probiotic for Men

Bauer Nutrition Biotics 8 Probiotic

GGR Score: 4 starstarstarstarstar

Product Highlights

  • Men’s-specific probiotic for gut health
  • Made to help strengthen your immune system
  • Built in digestive enzymes
  • Claimed to support gut health, mood, digestion, and immunity
  • 3 capsules per day

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Made to be taken long-term
  • In capsule form, so you don’t get the bad taste that some powders possess
  • Also contains vitamin D as well as the probiotic blend
  • Can save money by purchasing in bulk
  • No refrigeration required

Cons

  • Expensive for the amount of capsules
  • Limited reviews of the product
  • Not vegan- or vegetarian-friendly
  • Supposed to take 3 capsules a day, which is a lot

Bottom Line

These capsules contain 10 strains of probiotics with a guarantee of 20 billion CFUs per serving (per three capsules).

Biotics 8 contains two distinct advantages over most gut health supplements: It doesn’t have to be refrigerated (so you can take it on the go) and it contains prebiotics to help the probiotics do their job. 

Probiotics are the “good” bacteria that are beneficial to your overall gut health, and prebiotics act as food for the probiotics. 

Certified personal trainer and GGR performance editor Anthony O’Reilly typically doesn’t like probiotic supplements (he gets enough from the fermented foods in his diet) but said he was pleasantly surprised by how well this worked for him.

“I don’t want to be too descriptive but everything was just smoother and easier, if you know what I mean,” says Anthony, a certified nutrition coach.

Biotics 8 also contains Vitamin D, which isn’t commonly found in probiotics but has been found to reduce overall disease risk in men and improve health markers like insulin sensitivity, according to this January 2021 meta-analysis16.

Biotics 8

The International Society of Sports Nutrition published a paper in December 201917 stating that probiotic supplementation could slow age-related declines of testosterone levels, though they and Bauer Nutrition say it may take up to a month of continuous use to see such side effects. 

Biotics 8 also contains a number of probiotic strains that have been shown to reduce digestive issues such as constipation and diarrhea. The formulation gets a clear 5 out of 5 from us.

The Vitamin Shoppe Ultimate 10+ Probiotic is a great budget-friendly probiotic supplement, but you can view our other top picks for best probiotic for men, too. 

Dosing instructions 2 capsules/day (16 billion CFUs)
Strain(s)Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus paracasei, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus fermentum, Bifidobacterium longum, Bifidobacterium bifidum, Bifidobacterium breve, Saccharomyces Boulardii
Storage No refrigeration required 
Cost $2.00/serving in 30-serving container 

Key Nutrients and Supplements for Men

We won’t be recommending products in this section, but rather we’ll be digging into some of the top vitamins, minerals, and other dietary supplements that may be good for men. 

Again, you may not need any of these supplements, but dietary experts generally agree that these are the ones that men should pay close attention to. 

Vitamin D

Vitamin D supplements have a number of benefits, including increasing calcium absorption, supporting improved bone health and density, and reducing inflammation, but a December 201021 study showed it could also help support increased testosterone levels. 

B-Vitamins

In addition to being called “absolutely essential for every aspect of brain function,” B-Vitamins are also essential for cellular function7

Omega-3

Omega-3 has profound effects on your heart health, and may help improve certain aspects of men’s sexual health14, 15

Zinc

A December 2022 review22 on zinc found it could reduce the risk of prostate cancer and improve overall prostate health. 

Selenium

The Harvard School of Public Health23 states that selenium helps maintain proteins called selenoproteins, which are heavily involved in reproduction. Selenium also plays a role in thyroid health and protects cell membranes from damage23.

Probiotics

Probiotics help alleviate digestive issues like diarrhea, but also may help men maintain optimal testosterone levels17

Saw palmetto

Saw palmetto was first used by Native Americans in the 1700s to treat urinary tract infections in men and treat men’s sexual health, and modern-day doctors in a March 2009 review24 confirmed that it indeed has many properties that make it beneficial for men’s overall wellness. 

How We Picked and Tested the Best Supplements for Men 

It’s hard to give a testing methodology since we covered so many types of supplements here, though there are a few common things we keep in mind when choosing the best supplements. 

Dosage

Regardless of what the supplement is, it should have a clinically-backed dose of whatever ingredients it boasted on the label. 

Quality 

Not all proteins, creatine, or fish oils are created equal, so we looked for the highest quality ingredients in every supplement. 

Transparency

Companies should clearly state what’s in their supplements and how much of each ingredient is in a container. 

Value

The price should match the supplement’s overall quality—meaning a low-dose supplement should not be expensive. 

Ingredients and Formulation

Does it contain research-backed ingredients? Does every ingredient serve a purpose? Is there anything harmful in them?

Buying Guide: What to Look for in Supplements for Men

Here are a few things to keep in mind when shopping for a supplement for men (whether you are one or you’re shopping for one). 

Ingredients

Look at the ingredients list and check to see whether a company adds certain things that might be harmful to your health, or that you might be allergic to.

Dosage

The nutrition label should tell you exactly how much of each ingredient is in a product. Some companies might use proprietary blends, which is when a group of compounds are grouped together so companies don’t have to tell you how much of each is in it. With very few exceptions, this is usually an indication that the ingredients are under-dosed. 

Quality 

Do a little research and determine whether the ingredients are high quality. For example, certain fish oil supplements might use fish of lesser quality. 

Budget

Make sure the supplement is within your budget, and if it’s a little more than you were anticipating, make sure it’s worth the investment.

Personal Health and Lifestyle Needs

Look for a supplement that addresses your particular needs. A person with heart issues should go for a fish oil supplement, but they may not need a protein powder if they’re getting enough through their diet. Consult with an nutritionist or physician to find out what the best supplement is for you.

FAQs About Best Supplements for Men

What is the best supplement for men?

Ultimately it depends on what aspect of your health you’re looking to address, but here are a few supplements that we believe tackle a number of issues: 

Best Hydration Supplement for Men: Transparent Labs Hydrate V3
Best Multivitamin for Men Over 50: Ritual Essential for Men 50+
Best Protein Powder for Men: Legion Whey+
Best Multivitamin for Men: Onnit Total Human
Best Carbohydrate Supplement for Men: XWERKS Motion
Best Creatine for Men: Nutricost Creatine Monohydrate
Best Pre-Workout Supplement for Men: Kaged Pre-Kaged
Best Fiber Supplement for Men: Transparent Labs Prebiotic Aquatic Greens + Fiber
Best Gut Health Supplement for Men: Biotics 8

What are the 5 most important supplements?

Most doctors and nutritionists would list these five supplements as the most important for men: 

Vitamin D
B-Vitamins
Omega-3
Zinc
Selenium

Probiotics and saw palmetto are two other supplements vital to men’s health. 

What is the most important supplement for men to take daily?

The most important supplement to take daily is the one that addresses your individual nutritional needs, which might be increased protein intake or supplementing a certain vitamin or mineral.

Should men take a fish oil supplement?

Yes! Men should take a fish oil supplement if it’s recommended by a nutritionist or physician to address heart health issues or other conditions.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any diseases.

References

  1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021, February 19). Products – data briefs – number 399 – February 2021. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Retrieved February 22, 2023, from https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/products/databriefs/db399.htm
  2. Khoo HE, Ng HS, Yap WS, Goh HJH, Yim HS. Nutrients for Prevention of Macular Degeneration and Eye-Related Diseases. Antioxidants (Basel). 2019;8(4):85. Published 2019 Apr 2. doi:10.3390/antiox8040085
  3. Cholewa JM, Wyszczelska-Rokiel M, Glowacki R, et al. Effects of betaine on body composition, performance, and homocysteine thiolactone. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2013;10(1):39. Published 2013 Aug 22. doi:10.1186/1550-2783-10-39
  4. Coqueiro AY, Rogero MM, Tirapegui J. Glutamine as an Anti-Fatigue Amino Acid in Sports Nutrition. Nutrients. 2019;11(4):863. Published 2019 Apr 17. doi:10.3390/nu11040863
  5. American College of Sports Medicine Position Stand: Exercise and Fluid Replacement (n.d.). Retrieved February 23, 2023, from https://www.khsaa.org/httpdocs/sportsmedicine/heat/exerciseandfluidreplacement.pdf
  6. Kim MG, Yang I, Lee HS, Lee JY, Kim K. Lipid-modifying effects of krill oil vs fish oil: a network meta-analysis. Nutr Rev. 2020;78(9):699-708. doi:10.1093/nutrit/nuz102
  7. Kennedy DO. B Vitamins and the Brain: Mechanisms, Dose and Efficacy–A Review. Nutrients. 2016;8(2):68. Published 2016 Jan 27. doi:10.3390/nu8020068
  8. Kaur D, Rasane P, Singh J, et al. Nutritional Interventions for Elderly and Considerations for the Development of Geriatric Foods. Curr Aging Sci. 2019;12(1):15-27. doi:10.2174/1874609812666190521110548
  9. Cabrera ÁJ. Zinc, aging, and immunosenescence: an overview. Pathobiol Aging Age Relat Dis. 2015;5:25592. Published 2015 Feb 5. doi:10.3402/pba.v5.25592
  10. Simes DC, Viegas CSB, Araújo N, Marreiros C. Vitamin K as a Powerful Micronutrient in Aging and Age-Related Diseases: Pros and Cons from Clinical Studies. Int J Mol Sci. 2019;20(17):4150. Published 2019 Aug 25. doi:10.3390/ijms20174150
  11. Khoo HE, Ng HS, Yap WS, Goh HJH, Yim HS. Nutrients for Prevention of Macular Degeneration and Eye-Related Diseases. Antioxidants (Basel). 2019;8(4):85. Published 2019 Apr 2. doi:10.3390/antiox8040085
  12. Bito T, Okumura E, Fujishima M, Watanabe F. Potential of Chlorella as a Dietary Supplement to Promote Human Health. Nutrients. 2020;12(9):2524. Published 2020 Aug 20. doi:10.3390/nu12092524
  13. van den Oever, S. P., & Mayer, H. K. (2022). Biologically active or just “pseudo”-vitamin B12 as predominant form in algae-based nutritional supplements? In Journal of Food Composition and Analysis (Vol. 109, p. 104464). Elsevier BV. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jfca.2022.104464
  14. Falsig, A. ‐M. L., Gleerup, C. S., & Knudsen, U. B. (2019). The influence of omega‐3 fatty acids on semen quality markers: a systematic PRISMA review. In Andrology (Vol. 7, Issue 6, pp. 794–803). Wiley. https://doi.org/10.1111/andr.12649
  15. Jensen TK, Priskorn L, Holmboe SA, et al. Associations of Fish Oil Supplement Use With Testicular Function in Young Men. JAMA Netw Open. 2020;3(1):e1919462. Published 2020 Jan 3. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2019.19462
  16. Abboud M, Rizk R, AlAnouti F, Papandreou D, Haidar S, Mahboub N. The Health Effects of Vitamin D and Probiotic Co-Supplementation: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials. Nutrients. 2020;13(1):111. Published 2020 Dec 30. doi:10.3390/nu13010111
  17. Jäger R, Mohr AE, Carpenter KC, et al. International Society of Sports Nutrition Position Stand: Probiotics. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2019;16(1):62. Published 2019 Dec 21. doi:10.1186/s12970-019-0329-0
  18. Ripps H, Shen W. Review: taurine: a “very essential” amino acid. Mol Vis. 2012;18:2673-2686.
  19. Grgic J, Trexler ET, Lazinica B, Pedisic Z. Effects of caffeine intake on muscle strength and power: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2018;15:11. Published 2018 Mar 5. doi:10.1186/s12970-018-0216-0
  20. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (n.d.). Office of dietary supplements – vitamin B12. NIH Office of Dietary Supplements. Retrieved February 22, 2023, from https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminB12-HealthProfessional/
  21. Pilz S, Frisch S, Koertke H, et al. Effect of vitamin D supplementation on testosterone levels in men. Horm Metab Res. 2011;43(3):223-225. doi:10.1055/s-0030-1269854
  22. Karunasinghe N. Zinc in Prostate Health and Disease: A Mini Review. Biomedicines. 2022;10(12):3206. Published 2022 Dec 10. doi:10.3390/biomedicines10123206
  23. Selenium. The Nutrition Source. (2021, October 19). Retrieved February 22, 2023, from https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/selenium
  24. Suzuki M, Ito Y, Fujino T, et al. Pharmacological effects of saw palmetto extract in the lower urinary tract. Acta Pharmacol Sin. 2009;30(3):227-281. doi:10.1038/aps.2009.1

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