We test and review fitness products based on an independent, multi-point methodology. If you use our links to purchase something, we may earn a commission. Read our disclosures.

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 your 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?
  • 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 

Best Creatine: Transparent Labs Creatine HMB

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

Best Creatine

Transparent Labs Creatine HMB

GGR Score: 4 starstarstarstarstar

Product Highlights

  • Uses research-backed doses 
  • Available in 10 fruit flavors as well as an unflavored option
  • Free from artificial sweeteners, colored dyes, fillers, and harmful additives

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • 10 flavors, 1 unflavored option
  • Includes B-Hydroxy B-Methylbutyrate (HMB)
  • 5 grams of creatine monohydrate per serving
  • Contains no added sugar, artificial sweeteners, dyes, or fillers

Cons

  • No stimulant (for those looking for pre-workout boost)

Bottom Line

Transparent Labs’ Creatine HMB puts a unique twist on the more traditional creatine monohydrate by adding HMB to more effectively build strength, stamina and recovery.

Transparent Labs Creatine HMB stands above the hundreds, possibly thousands, of other creatine supplements out there due to how easily absorbed it is. It contains a compound called BioPerine, a form of piperine (found in black pepper) that can increase the rate of absorption of other compounds it’s paired with. 

In this case, BioPerine helps boost the bioavailability of creatine and HMB. Creatine, as most people probably know, is linked with improved strength, recovery, and muscle mass2

“HMB is a metabolite of the amino acid leucine, which helps to prevent the breakdown of muscle protein and can help speed up the recovery process from strenuous exercise,” explains sports nutrition expert Dr. Krissy Kendall. 

To be honest, Transparent Labs Creatine HMB is far from the most affordable creatine supplement at $1.50 per serving—other companies have it for $1 or less per scoop. That said, their supplement may not be as effective as Transparent Labs’.

transparent labs creatine

Our recommendation for the best budget-friendly creatine supplement is Optimum Nutrition Micronized Creatine Monohydrate, but you can see our top picks for best creatine for other recommendations. 

There are 10 flavors of Transparent Labs Creatine HMB, plus an unflavored option. 

Nicole Davis, GGR senior editor and expert product tester, wasn’t the biggest fan of the Black Cherry flavor. “It tasted a bit watered down, even with the right amount of water. Some people may prefer this though! There were floaties after I finished mixing, but it didn’t interfere with the overall drinking of it.”

Price per serving$1.50
IngredientsCreatine monohydrate, beta-hydroxy beta-methylbutyrate (HMB), BioPerine
Flavors Unflavored, Sour Grape, Peach Mango, Fruit Punch, Watermelon, Black Cherry, Blue Raspberry, Orange, Tropical Punch, Hawaiian Splash, and Strawberry Lemonade

Best Protein Powder for Men: Kaged Re-Kaged

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

Best Protein Powder for Men

Kaged Re-Kaged

GGR Score: 4.1 starstarstarstarstar

Product Highlights

  • Recovery blend includes L-glutamine, digestive enzymes, and creatine HCI
  • Formulated to build lean muscle and improve recovery time 
  • Scientifically-researched ingredients at appropriate ratios
  • Unique flavors: strawberry lemonade, iced lemon cake, and orange kream
  • Banned-substance free

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Mixes well
  • Unique flavors
  • Reportedly highly effective
  • Only 1 gram of sugar
  • Contains L-glutamine and creatine

Cons

  • Too sweet for some people
  • Contains sucralose
  • May cause digestive issues

Bottom Line

If you are looking for a post-workout product that not only improves recovery but also is designed to build muscle mass, Kaged Re-Kaged may be the right option for you.

Kaged Re-Kaged was an easy choice for the best protein powder for men because of its high protein content—28 grams per serving—though that’s hardly the only reason. It also includes creatine and betaine, two ingredients not commonly found in protein powders but that have potent benefits on muscle mass and endurance. 

Creatine is one of, if not the most researched supplement in the world and the International Society of Sports Nutrition in 20172 said almost every study linked it with improved strength and muscle mass, and it supported better recovery from weightlifting and other resistance training exercises. 

re-kaged on counter

Betaine is another well-researched supplement, and an August 2013 study3 said it may support strength and muscle endurance.  

It also contains glutamine, which more than 50 studies have linked to improved muscle tissue repair and immune health, according to an April 2019 meta-analysis4

Re-Kaged is one of the more expensive protein powders, at $2.25 per serving. If you’re looking for the best budget-friendly protein powder, our choice is Optimum Nutrition 100% Gold Standard Whey.

For more choices, check out our roundup of the best protein powders for men

Re-Kaged comes in three flavors: Strawberry Lemonade, Orange Kream, Iced Lemon Cake. I tested the Orange Kream and it’s still one of my favorite protein powders when it comes to taste because it tastes like a vanilla ice cream float made with orange soda. 

Price per serving$2.25 
FlavorsStrawberry Lemonade, Orange Kream, Iced Lemon Cake 
Protein28 g 
Carbs2-3 g (varies by flavor) 
Fat 1 g 

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: 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 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.  

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 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 Omega-3 Fish Oil Supplement for Men: Kaged Omega-3

Good for: Men looking after their heart health (and potentially their sexual health, too) 

For Heart Health

Kaged Muscle Omega-3

GGR Score: 4.5 starstarstarstarstar

Product Highlights

  • Clean formula with fully disclosed ingredients 
  • 2-step process to purify oil
  • No fish burps
  • Formulated with triglyceride fish oil

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • 100% wild caught
  • Fish burp-free
  • Easier to digest and absorb than other formulas
  • Sustainably caught and ethically stored

Cons

  • Comparably expensive
  • Out of stock often

Bottom Line

Kaged Muscle Omega-3 softgels are an innovative take on a classic supplement for those looking for something different.

Kaged Omega-3 is a high-dose fish oil supplement that contains 3,000 milligrams of fish oil, with 1,000 milligrams coming form eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and 900 milligrams from docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)—both of which are so-called “good fats.”

You’re probably familiar with some of the overall benefits of EPA and DHA fatty acids, such as improved heart and blood health, healthy blood pressure levels, and reduced inflammation. It goes without saying that those are beneficial to everyone, men and women, but there are also some potential benefits specific to men. 

Kaged Omega 3

A May 2019 review14 of 16 studies on fish oil supplements found they may help improve sperm quality in infertile men, and a January 2020 study15 conducted on more than 1,600 Danish men saw improvements in testicular function. Researchers for both studies, however, clarified that more information was needed on how fish oil supplements could be used to treat men’s sexual health. 

Some fish oil supplements may cause burping, though Kaged doesn’t have that side effect. They also use 100 percent wild-caught anchovies to source their omega-3 fatty acids and have a number of certifications from sea life organizations for following safe fishing practices and reducing any dangers to other sea creatures, such as dolphins. 

Our choice for the best budget-friendly fish oil supplement goes to Kirkland Fish Oil, but you can find other options in our best fish oil supplement roundup.  

Dose instructions2 softgel capsules/day with food
Primary source(s)Fish oil; 100% wild-caught anchovies
EPA + DHA per serving1,100 mg of EPA900 mg of DHA
Cost per serving$29.99/30 servings = $1.00/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 

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

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 Creatine for Men: Transparent Labs Creatine HMB
– Best Protein Powder for Men: Kaged Re-Kaged
– Best Hydration Supplement for Men: Transparent Labs Hydrate V3
– Best Multivitamin for Men: Onnit Total Human
– Best Multivitamin for Men Over 50: Ritual Essential for Men 50+
– Best Fiber Supplement for Men: Transparent Labs Prebiotic Aquatic Greens + Fiber
– Best Omega-3 Fish Oil Supplement for Men: Kaged Omega-3
– Best Gut Health Supplement for Men: Biotics 8
– Best Pre-Workout Supplement for Men: Kaged Pre-Kaged

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.

Experts Who Contributed to This Article

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

Further reading

NÜOBELL vs Bowflex (2023): Battle of the Classics Cover Image
NÜOBELL vs Bowflex (2023): Battle of the Classics

Which adjustable dumbbell is right for your needs? We break down the similarities and differences of these top brands in our NÜOBELL vs Bowflex comparison. Read more

The Best Home Saunas (2023): A Heated Approach to Recovery Cover Image
The Best Home Saunas (2023): A Heated Approach to Recovery

From infrared to traditional saunas, you can up your recovery with our picks of the best home saunas. Read more

Transparent Labs BCAAs Review (2023): One Of Our Favorite Supplements For Better Workouts Cover Image
Transparent Labs BCAAs Review (2023): One Of Our Favorite Supplements For Better Workouts

In this Transparent Labs BCAAs review, we’ll dive into the supplement’s formulation and highlight our personal experience with the product. Read more

Kaged Muscle Pre-Kaged Review (2023): When It’s Time to Unleash Your Workout’s Potential Cover Image
Kaged Muscle Pre-Kaged Review (2023): When It’s Time to Unleash Your Workout’s Potential

In this Kaged Muscle Pre-Kaged review, we’ll let you know how this pre-workout supplement stacks up to the rest—straight from an R.D. Read more