Men’s Health Supplements – The B.S. Free Version

June is Men’s Health Month, which means that gents, it’s your time to shine! 

And shine you will, with a new firm grasp on strategic supplementation — freed from skeevy sales tactics and pigeonholed multivitamins that aren’t worth the convenience. 

Men’s health is about more than chugging down supplements or hopping on the latest fad herbal bandwagon, though. It’s about creating an unshakeable foundation of wellness through holistic actions that support your whole being. 

But the right supplements can still make all the difference. 

So, fellas, let’s skip the magic pills the marketing machines say will boost your virility and cure all ails in one fell swoop. It’s time to take control of your health and conquer the world, one bicep curl at a time. 

In This Article: 

• Why men’s health is important
• A holistic approach to men’s health
• Lifestyle changes for a healthier self
• The best supplements for men’s health

Why is Men’s Health Important?

Did you know that men are less likely to seek medical care than women?

Despite having a higher risk of developing all sorts of health conditions, from heart disease to gout, and even being more prone to cancer, men can be stubborn when it comes to seeing a doctor.

But here’s the deal — ignoring those little warning signs and brushing off symptoms can lead to serious consequences. Delayed diagnosis, missed opportunities for treatment, and potentially some not-so-fun outcomes, to name a few.

So, it’s time to break the cycle and start prioritizing your health, because your life literally depends on it.

We’re not talking about some magical potion that will make you invincible (we wish!). But we are talking about making the right choices first and then getting the key nutrients and supplements that can give your body a fighting chance.

That, gentlemen, is what we call a holistic approach.

A Holistic Approach to Men’s Health

Because, as great as supplements can be when taken appropriately and strategically, you can’t vitamin your way out of a couch-potato lifestyle or malnourishment.

Didn’t we warn you this blog would be B.S. free?

A holistic approach to men’s health involves taking into account all aspects of a man’s life (physical, mental, and emotional) in order to promote optimal health and virility. We get our framework for holistic well-being — the Wellness Pyramid — from our founder and supplement savant, Dr. Neal.

After 20 years of clinical practice, the loud-mouth, boat-rocking, holistic pharmacist created the Wellness Pyramid to simplify what is typically an arbitrary approach to health and wellness.

Men’s Lifestyle Factors for Good Health – Tier 1 of the Wellness Pyramid

1. Diet

Yep, the rumors are true: what you put on your plate matters. If you genuinely want to improve your virility, live an active life, and establish long-term health — look at your fuel first.

Fill your cart with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and don’t forget those healthy fats that keep your engine running smoothly.

Now, we’re not saying you can’t indulge in a burger or a slice of pizza every now and then (life’s too short, right?), but it’s all about finding that sweet spot.

So, fuel up with the good stuff, but remember that it’s not about restriction or boring salads. It’s about diversifying your nutrient intake through delicious foods that build a strong foundation for your physical health.

2. Sleep

Sleep is no joke when it comes to men’s health and well-being — that magical restoration process is where virility dreams come true. Our nightly snooze is essentially like pressing the reset button for our bodies and minds.

Without it, we’re risking a one-way ticket to the land of health issues, lowered cognitive function, and just generally bad vibes.

Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep every night. Every. Single. Night.

But it’s not just about the quantity of nights you’re sleeping 7-9 hours, it’s about the quality of those snoozes, too. Getting deep, uninterrupted slumber is critical for optimal health physically, emotionally, and mentally.

Learn More: B.S. Free Guide to Holistic Sleep Support

3. Exercise

Now, when we say exercise, we’re not just talking about pumping iron like a Schwarzenegger wannabe (though, hey, if that’s your thing, go for it!).

We’re talking about activities that get your heart pumping and your body sweating. Think brisk walks, cycling adventures, swimming like a champ, or even some good ol’ strength training.

So, strap on those running shoes, hop on that bike, or dive into the pool — just 30 minutes a day, five days a week is enough.

Learn More: The Truth About Exercise: Ditch the Myths

4. Stress Management

Let’s talk about the big bad wolf called stress. We all know it’s part of life, but when it starts camping out in your brain for way too long, it can wreak havoc on your health and happiness.

But fear not, because Dr. Neal‘s got some tricks up his sleeves to show that stress who’s boss. Meditation, yoga, breathing exercises — ever heard of ’em? These simple tools are actually secret weapons in your stress-fighting arsenal.

The key is to find what works best for you, stress-slaying comrades, and make stress reduction a regular part of your routine.

5. Lifestyle Changes

Lifestyle changes are simple but serious moves that’ll have a major impact on your health and well-being. So, buckle up — we’re dropping some lifestyle changes that will, in fact, change your life.

1. Quit smoking: Your whole body will thank you.
2. Reduce alcohol consumption: Toast to moderation and give your liver a break.
3. Avoid exposure to environmental toxins: Create a clean and green environment.
4. Maintain a healthy weight for you: Ditch diets, embrace nourishing food.
5. Stay up-to-date on health screenings: Catch any potential issues before it’s too late.

Men’s Health Supplements: Essential Nutrients – Tier 2

It bears repeating that if you try to skip over tier 1 of the Wellness Pyramid because buying a pill seems easier than taking a daily walk…

You’re going to end up wasting a lot of money.

But! If you’ve optimized the 5 lifestyle domains and you’re ready to advance from that health plateau, tier 2 — strategic supplementation — is the answer for your wellness and your wallet.

Before diving into our top picks for men’s health supplements, let’s just note that we’re all unique creatures with different nutritional needs.

Your age, lifestyle, and overall health play a role in what supplements might work best for you.

The Vital5

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach, but Dr. Neal has cracked the code on five crucial categories of nutrients that we could all benefit from. Or at least most of us — these 5 nutrients are severely lacking in modern diets, yet they’re key to keeping your body firing on all cylinders.

Meet the Vital5, the dream team and rock-solid starting point for anyone looking to boost their nutritional intake.

1. Omega-3 Supplements

Buckle up, ’cause we’re about to embark on a fishy adventure! Omega-3s are essential fatty acids that cannot be produced by the body and must be obtained through diet or supplementation. 

Why are they so important?

Heart Health. Omega-3s are the knights in shining armor, riding in to lower your triglycerides, kick blood pressure’s butt, and keep those arteries free from nasty plaque buildup. And since guys are at higher risk of heart disease, it’s a no-brainer to give our tickers some love.

Brain Health. But that’s not all, folks! Omega-3s also have a VIP ticket to the brain party. They’re like the brain’s best friend, boosting cognitive function and waving the flag for better memory and attention.

Disease Prevention. And here’s the kicker: omega-3s are critical when it comes to disease prevention. With their anti-inflammatory powers, they swoop in to combat inflammation and fend off chronic diseases like arthritis, diabetes, and even the big C-word, cancer.

How much is enough?

Now, if you’re a seafood aficionado, the American Heart Association (AHA) suggests channeling your inner Poseidon and devouring at least two servings of fatty fish per week.  

That’s your ticket to around 500 milligrams (mg) to 1,000 mg of those mighty EPA and DHA omega-3s, the dynamic duo that can shield your heart from harm. But, if you ask Dr. Neal, the cutting-edge research actually points to 2,000mg-3,000mg a day being the optimal dose.

Hence, supplementation! Look for omega-3 supplements that have the dose of EPA and DHA on the label so you know how many capsules to take to hit roughly 2,000mg.

Learn More: Omega-3 Supplement Buying Guide: 3 Things to Look For

2. Probiotics

Let’s talk gut buddies and the wonders of probiotics for your manly health.

Improved digestive health. These tiny warriors restore balance in your gut, kicking bloating, gas, and constipation to the curb like true champions. Say goodbye to belly troubles, friends.

Enhanced immune system function. Probiotics also have your back when it comes to your immune system. They’re like the bodyguards of your body, helping the good bacteria flourish and giving your immune system a high-five.

Potential reduction in inflammation. Now, let’s talk inflammation. Certain probiotic strains have the power to reduce inflammation, giving arthritis and other inflammation-related conditions a run for their money.

Improved mood. But wait, there’s another hidden benefit! Probiotics might just be the secret to a better mood, too.

Just remember, not all probiotics are created equal. Be a discerning consumer and choose a high-quality supplement with strains that have been scientifically studied for their specific health benefits. Don’t settle for second-rate bacteria.

How much is enough?

The recommended dosage of these gut superheroes can vary depending on the supplement and the bacteria strain it packs. Generally, for adults, aim for a range between 1 and 10 billion colony-forming units (CFUs) per day. 

But hey, some supplements may kick things up a notch and recommend higher doses. Take our Probiotic Complete, for example. It’s a heavyweight with a whopping 30 billion CFUs.

3. Bone Support

Introducing the dynamic duo of bone support: Calcium hydroxyapatite and the sunshine supplement, Vitamin D. These bad boys are essential for keeping your bones strong and sturdy as you age.

Calcium hydroxyapatite is like the bricklayer, building and maintaining those bone fortresses. Vitamin D, on the other hand, is the master architect, helping your body absorb and utilize calcium like a pro.

Learn More: Vitamin D: Sunshine Supplement for Bones, Blood, and The Blues

But hey, it’s not just about bones. These two superheroes also come with a sidekick squad of health benefits. Think: improved muscle function, a healthier heart, and even a boost to your immune system.

How much is enough?

When it comes to calcium, you’re aiming for a daily dose of 1,000 to 1,200 milligrams (mg). That’s the sweet spot for keeping those bones in tip-top shape.

For Vitamin D — shoot for 600 to 800 IU (International Units) per day.

4. Protein

It’s not just about building those biceps and showing off at the gym, although we won’t judge if that’s your motivation. Protein is the MVP when it comes to repairing tissues, boosting your immune system, and even keeping those hunger pangs at bay.

Now, when it comes to protein supplements, the stereotypical options are:

• Whey protein
• Casein protein
• Soy protein
• Pea protein
• Rice protein

But tbh, collagen peptides steal the spotlight. 

Collagen peptides are the real deal, offering high-quality protein with essential amino acids your body needs to function properly. These peptides are crucial for maintaining healthy joints, strong muscles, and even promoting that youthful glow.

Learn More: Why Our Collagen Peptides is Vital

How much is enough?

Aiming for around 10 to 20 grams per day is a good place to start.

5. Multivitamins and Minerals

Unfortunately, our modern Western diet often falls short when it comes to delivering all the essential micronutrients we need to live and thrive.

Micronutrient deficiencies might seem small, pun intended, but they can impact nearly every body system and can lead to a variety of health issues. 

Multivitamins are like an insurance policy for your health, then, filling in the gaps left by our not-so-perfect diets. They can help to prevent what Dr. Neal calls those pesky “diseases of deficiency.”

How much is enough?

When it comes to the dosage of multivitamins and minerals, age, gender, and specific health needs all come into play.

But just be sure to not fall for the “men’s multivitamin” marketing schemes — those products are typically more fluff than Jet Puffed marshmallows.

So here’s the game plan: chat with your team of pros. Consult with your trusty team of healthcare experts — doctors, pharmacists, dieticians, our squad — to nail down the perfect dosage for your unique situation. 

Additional Men’s Health Supplements

But hey, we’re not saying these Vital5 are the be-all and end-all of supplements! They’re just the ones you’re most likely to be deficient in, and would most likely benefit from taking.

When it comes to specific health concerns, though, there’s a whole universe of supplements out there. Our three favorites for men’s health and virility, aside from the Vital5, are:

CoQ10

Coenzyme Q10, or as we cool cats like to call it, CoQ10, is a powerful antioxidant. This supplement revvs up cellular engines, boosts energy production, and tends to the heart, too.

It can also decrease muscle pain and have a positive impact on damaged or aging skin. 

But that’s not even the best part: CoQ10 might just be the key nutrient for male fertility. It’s like a cheerleader for testosterone production, giving it a boost and keeping things in the baby-making zone thanks to a “positive influence” on the hormone creation process.  

Zinc

Zinc: the unsung hero of men’s health supplements. This little powerhouse does so much more than you’d think. 

First off, zinc is the immune system’s BFF — boosting defenses and keeping gross germs at bay. This mineral is also a healer extraordinaire that helps your cuts and scrapes zip up faster than light.

But the real magic of zinc for men? Studies have shown that zinc supplementation may help improve sperm quality and fertility in men with low levels of the mineral. (And it’s linked to improvements in erectile dysfunction!)

L-arginine

The amino acid known as L-arginine is a true superstar when it comes to boosting your blood flow and showing some love to your heart.

You see, L-arginine supports the blood vessels by helping nitric oxide production, which dilates those pipes and gets your circulation pumping.

And when your blood flow is on point, it’s not just your heart that benefits — it can also give a helping hand in the battle against erectile dysfunction.

Putting It All Together: Creating a Holistic Approach to Men’s Health

So let’s take June to get our crap together, okay dudes? It is Men’s Health Month, after all, and health is about more than just taking supplements or going to the doctor when something goes wrong. 

It’s about living a healthy, nutritional lifestyle day in and day out. Take control of your health, take care of yourself, and build the foundation for a long, happy life.

And if you need us, we’ve got your back, bro! You can chat all things men’s health supplements for free, anytime, with our Counterside Consults.