ON THE HUNT for a great multivitamin to support your overall health and immunity? Multivitamins for men have long been a staple in the world of supplements, alongside protein powders and creatine. They’re among the most popular dietary supplements consumed by men across America, but the question remains: are they truly essential?
According to the CDC, fewer than 10 percent of the U.S. population suffers from vitamin deficiencies, which prompts us to explore the deeper reasons why men turn to multivitamins. While addressing nutritional deficiencies is one just motivator, the appeal of a multi extends far beyond. If you’re considering integrating daily practices or supplements to support your health and wellness, it’s easy to opt for one supplement that contains a comprehensive blend of all the essential vitamins and minerals. Even if you’re confident in your healthy diet, there may be nutrients you’re missing, and a men’s multivitamin can help bridge those gaps.
Best Multivitamins for Men
Abby Langer, RD, the owner of Abby Langer Nutrition, a Toronto-based nutrition consulting and communications company, points out that while multivitamins have been recommended by doctors and consumed by people for years, not everyone necessarily needs them. “While most of us can get our vitamins and minerals from food, there are exceptions, such as vegans who need to supplement B12,” she explains.
In essence, even the best multivitamins for men cannot replace a balanced and nutrient-rich diet. Prioritizing a healthy eating regimen, rich in whole foods, remains paramount in ensuring your body gets all the nutrients it needs to thrive. Nevertheless, there are instances when a little extra support can be valuable, and that’s where excellently formulated multivitamins for men come into play.
What to Consider
The FDA considers multivitamins a dietary supplement and so it doesn’t have to approve or inspect them—though the agency can issue recalls for dangerous supplements if problems arise after the product is on the market.
That lack of oversight is one of the many reasons that, as a consumer, choosing a high-quality multivitamin can feel like the wild west of the wellness world. Here are a few key factors to consider:
Certification
Look for a multivitamin with third-party certification from a trusted entity (USP, NSF, Informed Choice). This certification verifies that what’s on the label of the multivitamin is what’s actually in the multivitamin itself to ensure quality and safety.
Age range
Think about your age, gender, and any specific health concerns you may have. For example, men who are vegetarian or vegan may have higher vitamin B requirements than men who eat animal products, while older men may benefit from a multivitamin with extra vitamin D.
How We Selected
Men’s Health health editors and experts spent months researching dozens and testing many of the top-rated third-party certified multivitamins for men to compile a list of those worthy of recommendation. We paid close attention to evaluate the most important features, such as ingredients, price, and third-party testing. We also sleuthed through pages of Reddit threads to identify men’s multivitamins that have garnered popularity. The list below represents our carefully chosen picks of the best multivitamins for men to shop in 2024.
Cons
- Expensive compared to similar formulas
| Type | Beadlet-in-oil capsule |
|---|---|
| Dosage | 2 capsules |
| Price per dose | $1.10 |
| Age range | 18-49 |
| Certification | Informed Sport Certification |
What impressed me the most during my four-month journey taking this vitamin was how much more enjoyable it was compared to traditional multivitamins. And that’s Ritual’s whole approach: Minty fresh scent and taste, auto-ship subscriptions, and sleek packaging take the fuss out of taking a daily supplement.
What’s even better is that I found it easily digestible. Whether or not I took it with food, it was gentle on my stomach—a far cry from some bulky multivitamins that require a meal to go down. The minty-fresh aftertaste is also a high note and a refreshing departure from the chalky residue left by traditional options.
While Ritual emphasizes gender-specific formulations, our research suggests this might not be the primary selling point of this blend. As nutrition expert Abby Langer points out, gender-specific supplements usually vary little in content, apart from slight adjustments in calcium, iron for women, and zinc for men. In the case of the Essential for Men – Multivitamin 18+, it falls short of the recommended daily zinc intake for men, offering only 2.4 mg compared to the required 11 mg. Despite that, the rest of the nutrient breakdown is solid, and I appreciate the convenience of their monthly subscription.
Read more: Ritual Protein Powder Review
Pros
- Includes bioactive B vitamins and amino acid-chelated minerals for optimal absorption
- Contains methylfolate
Cons
- Must take 1 capsules in the AM and 1 capsule in the PM
| Type | Powder capsule |
|---|---|
| Dosage | 2 capsules per day |
| Price per dose | $1 |
| Age range | 18+ |
| Certification | NSF Certified for Sport |
Thorne’s Basic Nutrients 2/Day is another great choice to meet the heightened nutritional needs of athletes and active guys, at a slightly more affordable price point than the Klean Multivitamin. Packed with 22 essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A-D, calcium, magnesium, and zinc, it leaves no stone unturned.
This formula includes choline and inositol, which support cognitive function and healthy brain development. It also features trace minerals that aid in maintaining healthy blood sugar levels and supporting detoxification. The absence of artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives is a testament to its commitment to purity. But keep in mind: unlike Klean’s multi, this one may not be suitable for vegetarians.
Most of Thorne Research’s products, including this multi, carry the NSF Certified for Sport label, meaning they are free from banned substances and contaminants and safe for competitive athletes.
Read more: Best Supplements for Men
MegaFood Men’s Advanced Multivitamin is another great multivitamin made with real food and natural ingredients, which means it’s free from synthetic additives and artificial preservatives. It is also Non-GMO Project Verified and tested for purity and potency and NSF Certified.
The supplement includes vitamins A-E, K, calcium, potassium and more. In addition to these essential nutrients, this formula also contains a variety of other natural ingredients known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and may help support immune function, cognitive health, and overall wellness. This includes organic turmeric root, organic ginger root, organic schisandra berry, and organic astragalus root.
Read more: Best Mushroom Supplements
Pros
- Money back guarantee
Cons
- Expensive, compared to similar forumlas
| Type | Capsule |
|---|---|
| Dosage | 3-6 capsules a day |
| Price per dose | $1.66 |
| Age range | 50+ |
Thorne is tailored to the needs of older men. As we age, our bodies become less efficient at absorbing nutrients, making supplementation of certain vitamins and minerals more important for those over 50.
This formula incorporates higher levels of calcium and magnesium compared to Ritual’s 18+ version. However, it also comes at a slightly higher cost, as does many multivitamins for older adults. If you’re over 50 and concerned about deficiencies in these nutrients, the 50+ formula justifies the extra expense.
Pros
- Contains methylfolate
- Optimized for men over 40
Cons
- Not suitable for those sensitive to caffeine (contains green tea)
| Type | Powder capsule |
|---|---|
| Dosage | 3 capsules |
| Price per dose | $1.21 |
| Age range | 40+ |
| Certification | NSF GMP certified |
This multivitamin offers a wide array of essential vitamins and minerals, coupled with antioxidants, amino acids, and other nutrients crucial for overall healthy aging. Of note, it contains saw palmetto extract, pygeum extract, and lycopene, ingredients recognized for supporting prostate health and reducing the risk of prostate-related issues common in men over 60.
With the needs of older guys in mind, the formula also incorporates antioxidants aimed at supporting energy production and reducing fatigue. It’s worth mentioning that it contains green tea, which contains caffeine and can serve as a stimulant, making it an excellent choice for pre-workout consumption. On the flip side, it’s advisable not to take these capsules before bedtime.
Read more: Best Muscle-Building Supplements
Pros
- Optimized for athletes
- Contains methylfolate
Cons
- Expensive, compared to similar formulas
| Type | Tablet |
|---|---|
| Dosage | 2 tablets |
| Price per dose | $1.47 |
| Age range | 18+ |
| Certification | NSF Certified for Sport |
Klean Athlete’s multivitamin is designed to provide nutritional support for athletes and active individuals in a vegetarian formula. It boasts the full spectrum of essential vitamins and minerals one would expect from a multivitamin, including vitamin C, calcium, magnesium, zinc, and selenium. But what makes it great for athletes is its inclusion of amino acids, which play a crucial role in supporting muscle recovery and repair, particularly after intense exercise. It also contains methylfolate, a more easily absorbed alternative to folic acid, which aids in nutrient absorption.
The NSF Certified for Sport designation adds another layer of confidence, indicating that it’s safe for use by competitive athletes. At a price point of nearly $1.50 per serving, it’s one of the priciest multis we tested, but its specialized formulation makes it an attractive choice for active guys who don’t mind paying a premium for a vegetarian option.
Read more: Best Creatine Supplements
This ‘high-potency’ formula contains a range of antioxidants to help protect against free radical damage and support healthy aging, which nutrients such as including vitamin C, vitamin D, and zinc support immune function.
Its inclusion of digestive enzymes and probiotics supports not only healthy digestion but also may promote optimal nutrient absorption. The best part of this supplement is that it contains 100mg of Theracurmin, a highly bioavailable form of curcumin, which research suggests can support cognitive function and offer relief from minor osteoarthritis symptoms.
Read more: Best Whey Protein Powders
Pros
- Great price
- Contains methylfolate
Cons
- May not be suitable for vegans
| Type | Tablet |
|---|---|
| Dosage | 1 tablet |
| Price per dose | $0.80 |
| Age range | 18+ |
| Certification | NSF |
This multivitamin is specifically designed for men to support immune function and overall health for men of all ages. The formula is one of the more comprehensive on this list, including at least 100% of the daily recommended value for more than 20 vitamins and minerals such as 50 mcg (2,000 IU) of vitamin D3, zinc, B vitamins and potent antioxidants like beta-carotene. Note that this multivitamin does not contain iron, as men typically have sufficient iron levels.
A daily dose is just one pill once daily, so it’s a good choice for those looking to scale down from other multis that require 2+ pills to be taken daily. It’s been independently verified for content accuracy, purity, and freedom of contaminants with the gold-standard NSF seal of approval. So you can know that what’s advertised on the Nutrition Facts Panel is what’s actually inside the pill itself.
Read more: Best Vitamins for Your Immune System
If you prioritize organic foods, this pick from Garden of Life might be a good choice for you. Men’s Once Daily is made from a blend of organic fruits and vegetables, which provides a wide range of natural vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants and ensures you aren’t unintentionally consuming pesticides and preservatives.
Containing 15 essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, D, E, K, and a range of B, it’s a broad spectrum choice that can supplement a healthy diet effectively. The formula is designed specifically for older men to support prostate and heart health.
It’s free from synthetic additives, fillers, and binders, which are commonly found in many other supplements. You won’t find GMO ingredients or gluten in this formula either, as the brand is committed to ensuring the highest quality and purity.
Read more: Best-Tasting Protein Powder
| Type | Tablet |
|---|---|
| Dosage | 1 tablet |
| Price per dose | $0.10 |
| Age range | 18+ |
| Certification | USP |
You get at least 100 percent of the USDA recommended daily allowance of vitamins C, D, and E in a capsule that’s much smaller than some of the horse pills you’ll find in the supplement aisle. Plus, a blend of other essential vitamins and minerals that men need, including thiamin, pantothenic acid, and iodine.
This formula has a mix of additional antioxidants such as selenium and beta-carotene, which can help protect cells from oxidative damage caused by free radicals. It contains folic acid (which is a plus), but unfortunately, not in the form of methylfolate. Best of all, at just 10 cents per dose, it’s the cheapest supplement on this list.
Read more: Best Superfoods Powders
What Else to Consider
Talk to Your Healthcare Provider
If you have any concerns, questions or health conditions, talk to your healthcare provider. They can help you choose a multivitamin that is right for you based on your individual needs and health status.
Check the Label
You want a formula that contains 100% of the Daily Value (DV) for most vitamins and minerals. And then, specifically, choose a multivitamin that contains the active (and more beneficial) form of folate called methylfolate, not folic acid. Avoid mega-dose multivitamins, which can contain far more than the recommended daily intake and may be harmful.
What Are the Benefits of Taking a Multivitamin?
A 2019 Tufts and Harvard study found that despite the $43-billion supplement industry marketing that states otherwise, people who took a multivitamin lived no longer than those that didn’t.
And, in fact, popping a multivitamin may backfire when it comes to your daily diet.
“Some people who take a multivitamin use them to justify less healthy eating habits,” says JoAnn Manson, M.D., professor at Harvard Medical School. Vitamin-takers may become complacent about diet, thinking they’re covered by nutrients in the vitamin.
The above information considered, science does show a benefit for reducing cancer risk, says Michael Roizen, M.D., Chief Wellness Officer Emeritus at Cleveland Clinic.
A randomized clinical trial (the gold standard in research) found an 18 percent reduction in cancer risk among initially healthy older men who took a daily multi for more than a decade. It may seem like 18 percent isn’t significant, but still: cancer.
“The data on multivitamins in the short-term isn’t beneficial for otherwise healthy men,” says Dr. Roizen. So if you take a supplement for a few months, and then stop for a few years, and then repeat, you’re simply forking over your cash to supplement companies. (The top four companies spent a collective $155 million on advertising in 2014 alone.)
So if you’re healthy and have no major dietary restrictions—diagnosed or self-imposed (vegan, gluten-free, Keto, etc.)—you don’t need a multivitamin.
If you do have a highly restricted or poor diet, suffer from a gastrointestinal problem that impairs nutrient absorption such as celiac disease, or take certain medications including proton pump inhibitors for heartburn, then you may need a multivitamin and/or a specific nutrient supplement.
This is the kind of situation where if you haven’t already talked to your doctor about a multivitamin, it’s time.
Which Vitamins and Minerals Do Men Need (and How Much)?
According to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, adult men should consume the following vitamins and minerals daily:
Vitamin A: Men need 900 micrograms of vitamin A per day to support vision, immune function, and skin health. Good sources of vitamin A include liver, sweet potatoes, carrots, and spinach.
Vitamin C: 90 milligrams of vitamin C per day to support immune function, wound healing, and antioxidant protection. Good sources of vitamin C include citrus fruits, strawberries, broccoli, and bell peppers.
Vitamin D: 15 micrograms of vitamin D per day to support bone health, immune function, and overall health. Good sources of vitamin D include fortified dairy products, fatty fish, and exposure to sunlight.
Vitamin E: 15 milligrams of vitamin E per day to support antioxidant protection and skin health. Good sources of vitamin E include nuts, seeds, vegetable oils, and leafy greens.
Vitamin K: 120 micrograms of vitamin K per day to support blood clotting and bone health. Good sources of vitamin K include leafy greens, liver, and fermented foods.
Calcium: 1,000 milligrams of calcium per day to support bone health and muscle function. Good sources of calcium include dairy products, leafy greens, and fortified foods.
Magnesium: 400-420 milligrams of magnesium per day to support muscle and nerve function, heart health, and bone health. Good sources of magnesium include nuts, seeds, whole grains, and leafy greens.
Zinc: 11 milligrams of zinc per day to support immune function, wound healing, and reproductive health. Good sources of zinc include oysters, beef, beans, and nuts.
Iron: 8 milligrams of iron per day to support oxygen transport in the blood and energy production. Good sources of iron include red meat, poultry, beans, and fortified grains.
How Often Should a Multivitamin Be Taken (and When)?
Most multivitamins are designed to be taken once or twice a day, every day, to help fill any nutrient gaps in your diet and provide ongoing support for overall health.
It’s important to follow the instructions on the label of your specific multivitamin, though, as some may be designed to be taken more or less frequently.
Timing matters, too. Taking a multivitamin with food can help your body better absorb and utilize the nutrients it contains, since food can help stimulate the release of digestive enzymes that break down the vitamins and minerals. Which is why many instructions on the bottle indicate to take the vitamin with food.
Consider taking half of your multivitamin in the morning and half in the evening to keep vitamins and mineral levels steadier, Dr. Roizen says.
Some formulas may even contain added ingredients such as caffeine or anti-inflammatory compounds, so be diligent by reading ingredient labels to ensure you aren’t taking caffeine at night, for example.
Why You Can Trust Us
At Men’s Health, we take great pride in providing our readers with reliable and trustworthy product recommendations. We believe that our readers deserve the best, which is why we always make sure to conduct thorough research and testing before making any recommendations.
For this story, we spent hours interviewing medical doctors and registered dietitians, researching recommended daily vitamin and mineral values for men and, reading nutrition labels, and testing 5 of these multivitamins firsthand. Our writers and editors are experts in their own right, using their informed opinions to select products and ensuring that our content is of the highest quality.
The products that made it onto this list undergo third-party testing, hold an NSF, USP, or Informed Choice certification, and contain the vitamins and minerals essential to men in adequate or near-adequate amounts. Our product recommendations are purely editorial, and while we may receive free products to test and review, we only recommend the products we are most impressed by. We never let retailers or public relations contacts dictate our content or product coverage, which is why you can trust us to provide you with reliable and unbiased product recommendations.
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Paul is the Food & Nutrition Editor of Men’s Health. He’s also the author of two cookbooks: Guy Gourmet and A Man, A Pan, A Plan.
Abby Langer, RD is the owner of Abby Langer Nutrition, a Toronto-based nutrition consulting and communications company.
This article was originally published by a www.menshealth.com . Read the Original article here. .