Multivitamins have become increasingly intelligent and scientifically sound in the last decade, moving from a ‘one-size-fits-all attitude’ regarding human health to a far more clear recognition of the different biological requirements of separate individuals.
Whereas previously we could only buy multivitamins that were designed for the general population, now it is ever easier to find tailored formulas for each of our unique physiological needs.
Because…the reality is that we are all very different. Men need far different amounts of key nutrients than women, and children require far different than adults or seniors. It would be impossible for us to all consume the same amount and type of food and be nutritionally fulfilled, and in the same way it is impossible that we could consume similar multivitamins and achieve optimal health.
It is imperative that we are aware of what our bodies need to operate well when we are searching for a nutritional supplement. Thankfully we don’t have to guess at these amounts and specifics, as science has (and continues to) outline these values so that we can then respond to the needs of our bodies with intelligent products.
When it comes to the best multivitamins for men, there are some key characteristics to take into consideration regarding nutrient content and dosage. We know that men’s bodies require higher levels of particular vitamins and minerals in order to support energy production, hormone regulation and metabolic regulation, so when you’re shopping for a new supplement make sure that you check these first:
1. Does it have enough zinc?
Zinc is a key mineral for testosterone production and overall hormone balance, and not to mention it’s importance in digestion, mood regulation and detoxification. Many of us around the world are chronically depleted in zinc, and this can result in something smaller like a disturbance in skin elasticity or lower energy, but may also be a contributing factor in the development of more prominent imbalances such as heart disease and cancer. Especially if you exercise a lot, make sure that your multivitamin contains your daily recommended intake of Zinc.
2. Is there magnesium?
Magnesium is another essential mineral that we are all often deficient in, and this lack can have dire consequences for our overall well-being. Magnesium is needed for hundreds if not thousands of reactions in our bodies, regulating everything from sleeping patterns to hormone output. Especially for men (and again, especially for those men who exercise a lot or have high stress levels), magnesium can make the difference in your physical energy, mental outlook, and overall functioning.
3. But then…is the formula also compatible?
Not that magnesium and zinc are the only minerals necessary for optimal male health, but they’re the two that we’re going to focus on right now because they draw attention to a key quality that must be considered when purchasing a multivitamin: is it compatibly designed?
A revolutionary concept fully supported by all scientific evidence, compatibility refers to the interactions that may potentially occur between vitamins and minerals in a supplement form. Some nutrients just can’t be combined together in the same pill and still be utilized, as they inhibit absorption and/or react in our bodies to cause damage and potentially increase allergenic response.
Zinc and magnesium are two such ‘incompatible’ supplements, as if they are taken together they will actually stop the absorption of each other, even if the proper amount is made available in your multivitamin.
The best multivitamins for men will make sure that the design of the product keeps these two nutrients apart for optimal utilization and safety. This is essential.
