Here are the top three vitamins and minerals men need.

Vitamins and minerals are essential to overall health. They perform many critical roles in the body, from producing energy to ensuring proper function of bodily systems. Not getting enough of certain nutrients can negatively impact your health and even contribute to certain diseases. Here are the top three vitamins and minerals men need:

1. Vitamin D – By some estimates, more than 75% of Americans are deficient in vitamin D. This vitamin is crucial for men’s health.  Studies have shown that vitamin D may boost testosterone levels in men.  Because low testosterone puts men at risk for a variety of health issues, such as sleep apnea, low metabolism and fatigue, maintaining proper levels of vitamin D is extremely important. Vitamin D also supports bone and heart health, which is important as men get older.
   
2. Magnesium – According to the USDA, 57% of the US population does meet the recommended daily intake of magnesium.  This is a problem since magnesium is critical for blood glucose control, protein synthesis, nerve function and more.  Recent research suggests that magnesium supplementation can support blood levels of testosterone, especially when combined with exercise.
   
3. Omega-3’s – Omega-3’s are polyunsaturated fatty acids known for their anti-inflammatory effects. They have been shown to help support cardiovascular health, joint health and brain health.  Consuming omega-3’s helps maintain the proper ratio of omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids.  Most men consume far more omega-6 fatty acids than is considered healthy.  Therefore, men should aim to increase their intake of omega-3’s by eating foods such as flaxseeds, fish and walnuts or taking a high quality supplement.