While certain foods are packed with the essential vitamins and minerals you need for a healthy body, you often need more of those nutrients than food can offer. This is where supplements come in. These healthy additions to your diet can provide you with the proper dosage of vitamins and minerals that your body needs. But when it comes to women and men, there are certain nutrients that men may need more of than women. Here are some of the most important vitamins and supplements that men should be taking:
Vitamin D
You can get this vitamin from soaking up the sun, but if you're not outside much, you need to find another way to get vitamin D into your diet. According to Discovery Health, 61 percent of the population doesn't get enough vitamin D. Aside from being available in a supplement, vitamin D can be found in foods like fatty fish, fortified cereals, oysters, eggs and mushrooms. This vitamin is essential for the proper absorption of calcium, bone development, control of cell growth and proper immune system health.
Vitamin K
By consuming herbs, dark leafy greens, spring onions and Brussels sprouts, you'll be getting a healthy dose of vitamin K. But if you're not a big vegetable lover, you can also get this essential vitamin via supplement. Vitamin K works to rebuild bones and protecting against bone fractures. It's also great for protein modification and blood clotting.
Chromium
Chromium is a trace mineral that helps with burning carbohydrates and fat. It also assists in providing blood sugar to cells and may curb cravings if you're prone to a sweet tooth every now and again. Taking chromium may lower insulin levels to maintain optimum health. It's advised to take at least 35 micrograms a day.
Fish oil
Omega-3 fatty acids are found in fish like salmon and tuna. These fatty acids reduce fats in the body called triglycerides, which are associated with poor heart health. Taking fish oil supplements may help to lower blood pressure and assist in maintaining a healthy heart. Other foods with a high amount of omega-3 fatty acids include avocados, edamame, wild rice, walnuts, canola oil, flax and beans.
Vitamin C
Don't forget to drink your orange juice – this vitamin boasts a whole lot of health benefits. It's most commonly used to prevent and treat the common cold, but it's also great for men who work out regularly because it aids in bone strength. Its antioxidant properties also help to maintain optimal health. You can find this popular vitamin in supplement form as well as bell peppers, guavas, kiwi, dark leafy greens, oranges, clementines and strawberries, making it an easy vitamin to incorporate into any diet.
Vitamin B12
This less commonly known vitamin works to produce normal activity in the nerves. It also helps make DNA in your body, enables you to grow and develop naturally and even maintains your energy levels if you're feeling particularly sluggish. You can find vitamin B12 in clams, oysters, mussels, fish, crab, lobster, beef, lamb, cheese and eggs.
