Men are statistically less likely than women to take supplements — yet research consistently shows significant nutritional gaps in the average British man’s diet. Here’s what you’re likely missing and why it matters.

Why Men’s Nutritional Needs Differ

Men generally have higher caloric needs, greater muscle mass to maintain, and face specific health risks — cardiovascular disease, prostate issues and testosterone decline — that women don’t face in the same way. Despite this, men are less likely to seek health advice or take preventive action, including supplementation.

The Most Important Vitamins for Men

  • Vitamin D — Supports bone density, testosterone production, mood and immune function. UK men are chronically low, especially October–April. 10–25mcg daily is a sensible range.
  • Vitamin B12 — Essential for energy metabolism, nerve health and red blood cell production. Men over 50 absorb B12 less efficiently.
  • Zinc — Critical for testosterone production, sperm health, immune function and wound healing. Intense exercise depletes zinc through sweat.
  • Magnesium — Supports muscle recovery, sleep quality, energy and reduces stress. Heavily depleted by exercise and alcohol consumption.
  • Omega-3 (EPA/DHA) — Heart health, anti-inflammatory, joint support, cognitive function. Most UK men consume far below recommended levels.
  • Selenium — Antioxidant, supports thyroid function and has been linked to prostate health. UK soils are selenium-depleted.
  • Vitamin C — Immune support, antioxidant, collagen synthesis. Often low in men with limited fruit and vegetable intake.

Vitamins for Men Over 50

As men age, specific concerns emerge:

  • Prostate health — Selenium and Lycopene (from tomatoes) are associated with prostate health
  • Heart health — CoQ10 (involved in cellular energy production; declines with age), Omega-3, B vitamins for homocysteine management
  • Bone density — men lose bone density too, particularly from their 70s. Vitamin D + K2 + Calcium
  • Cognitive health — B vitamins (B6, B12, Folate) support brain function

Vitamins for Active Men

Regular exercise increases the need for several nutrients: Vitamin D (muscle function), Magnesium (muscle contraction and recovery), Zinc (testosterone, immunity), Iron (oxygen delivery), B vitamins (energy metabolism) and antioxidants (C and E) to manage exercise-induced oxidative stress.

Men’s Supplements at Chemist 2 Customer

Browse our Men’s Health section for a curated range of supplements designed for men. Also see our guide to Men’s Health OTC Treatments and Joint and Muscle Pain Relief.