A balanced diet is the best way to protect your health, but it's not
always easy to eat right. If you've been known to splurge on pizza, fried
chicken, or potato chips, men's vitamins can help you get the nutrients
your body needs.
Men's vitamins generally contain many of the same nutrients as other
vitamins, with dosages that best meet a man's unique health concerns.
Your physician or a registered dietician can provide you with assistance
selecting the vitamin supplement that is most appropriate for your needs.
Selenium is an important ingredient in men's vitamins. Selenium helps
reduce the risk of lung, prostate, and colorectal cancers. The average
daily allowance is 70 mcg, although doses of up to 200 mcg may be taken
for increased benefits.
Men over the age of 50 should choose men's vitamins that include additional
amounts of vitamin B12. This vitamin protects the heart against nerve
damage. The recommended daily value of vitamin B12 is 6 mcg, but you
may choose men's vitamins with doses up to 100 mcg. Older men can also
benefit from additional calcium and vitamin D to promote strong bones.
Men's vitamins should not contain iron. Men who consume too much iron
are at an increased risk of developing heart disease and certain cancers.
However, there are exceptions to this rule. Vegetarians, endurance athletes,
and people on reduced calorie diets may need iron supplements. If you
think you need an iron supplement, ask your physician for advice.
Some men's vitamins include extra ingredients such as saw palmetto to
promote prostate health. Most of these herbs aren't present in a large
enough dosage to provide substantial benefits. Some herbs may even interact
with your prescription medicines.
Men's vitamins are available in several forms. Capsules and tablets
are the most common, although you can also find men's vitamins in chewable,
liquid, or powdered forms. Each form provides the same health benefits,
so choose the one that is easiest for you to take. |
