Knowing exactly what your body needs, and what you should and shouldn’t be taking to attain optimal health, can sometimes get difficult. With so many fad diets, opinions and the next “new thing”, getting healthy can be a confusing task for some and men are no exception. Everybody’s body is different and everyone’s needs are unique, but there are a few things that remain the same amongst men. These things are adequate water intake, whole foods, exercise and quality vitamins for men’s health. Men require, for example, more zinc than women, while women require more iron than men. Gender specific vitamins at the right developmental stage can be very helpful in maintaining daily nutrient requirements.
In this article, we will discuss essential vitamins for men’s health.
Zinc
Zinc is the second most abundant mineral in the human body. It plays an important role in digestion and metabolism. It speeds the healing of wounds and bone fractures and supports the immune system against free radical damage. In terms of men’s health, Zinc plays a key role in the proper development of reproductive organs and the normal functioning of the prostate gland. Zinc supports the production of testosterone which is directly related to proper sexual function and relations. Things like alcohol, smoking and poor diet can deplete zinc levels in the body. Adult males should get at least 11mg of Zinc daily, which can be found in supplement form, or in foods like pumpkin seeds, lentils, seafood and baked beans.
Saw Palmetto Berries
This tart flavoured berry is renowned for its support of the prostate gland and the prevention of prostate cancer. The prostate sits between the bladder and penis and is responsible for the maintenance of sperm health. Many studies confirm that Saw Palmetto can stop the growth of cancer cells by deactivating specific receptors that are involved in its development. According to the American Cancer Society, Prostate Cancer is the second most common cancer in men. About 1 in 8 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime and Saw Palmetto berries have rendered themselves to be a great preventative. Supplementation is usually found in capsule and tincture form.
B Complex
B Complex is an umbrella term for all B vitamins, which include folic acid, thiamine (B-1), riboflavin (B-2) and B-12 just to name a few. These water-soluble vitamins are crucial in supporting our energy pathways and nerves. An important factor for men with active lifestyles or for those who want to maintain their energy levels and zest. Noor’s Energy + Multivitamin, is a complex blend of B vitamins along with essential minerals for sustained energy throughout the day. B vitamins are manufactured by bacteria in the intestinal tract but pharma drugs, constipation, and gut issues can inhibit its production. B vitamins are not stored in the body and its need increases with the use of alcohol, tobacco, recreational drugs and chronic stress. Foods rich in these vitamins include seafood, liver, poultry, leafy greens, nutritional yeast and legumes.
Vitamin C
This common antioxidant is usually taken to boost the immune system, and although it is amazing at this job, it has many more. Vitamin C is an anti-aging agent. It is necessary for the formation of collagen, which keeps the skin youthful, supports the skeletal system and aids in wound healing. Vitamin C helps in red blood cell formation, products against heavy metal exposure but depletes in production as we age, so supplementation is key. Vitamin C is rich in citrus fruits, broccoli, strawberries and pineapples but is also offered by Noor in a vitamin C chewable and convenient form.
Multivitamin
Whether male or female, elderly or a child; we could all use a dose of goodness to fill those nutritional gaps. Multivitamins are a great way to top on essential nutrients and maintain optimal body functions. They consist of an array of vitamins and minerals which makes it great for eye health, bone health, heart health, muscle and nerve function, as well as immunity.
Omega 3
Essential fatty acids, are key for both genders and one of the most important vitamins for men. Omega 3 is crucial for cognitive function and is known to prevent mental imbalances like dementia and Alzheimer’s. Omega 3 is not manufactured in the body and must be obtained through foods such as salmon, avocado and nuts or a high quality vitamin like Noor’s Ultra Omega.
All in all, men’s health supplements are just as important as the water we drink and the food we eat. Filling daily nutritional gaps and taking gender specific vitamins like Zinc, and herbs like Saw Palmetto, help to keep the male reproductive system healthy, while supporting energy levels and brain health in men’s everyday lives.
