Best supplements for women and men
Share
Men and women have different needs when it comes to dietary supplements. Of course, a healthy diet for both sexes is quite similar and includes fruits and vegetables, whole grains, dairy products, and protein, while avoiding unhealthy fats, too much salt, and sugar. Men need more calories than women, but women need more vitamins and minerals.
Women of reproductive age must ensure they get sufficient amounts of vitamin B9, also known as folate or folic acid. This is crucial to reduce the risk of developmental defects in the fetus's spine and brain during pregnancy.
Another important supplement for pregnant and breastfeeding women is DHA, a type of omega-3. DHA contributes to the normal development of the eyes, vision, and brain in the fetus and infant. This effect is achieved when the mother consumes 200 mg of DHA daily, in addition to the recommended daily intake for adults. You can, for example, try Aarja Health Omega3 krill oil!
Many women have iron deficiency due to blood loss during menstruation. Therefore, iron supplements are often recommended. Women who have recently given birth or are breastfeeding may also need extra iron.
Older and postmenopausal women do not need as much iron. Similarly, men do not need as much iron as women of reproductive age. This is because iron is stored in the body and can accumulate in organs.
In general, vegans and vegetarians may benefit from iron supplements. People with gastrointestinal diseases that impair iron absorption may also need this.
Another important supplement for women is calcium. Estrogen helps maintain strong bones, and calcium can help reduce bone loss after menopause. Calcium does not work alone – vitamins D and K2 are necessary for the absorption of calcium and phosphorus. Feel free to try Aarja Health's Premium Calcium D3 + K2 with blueberry.
Zinc is important for men because it helps maintain normal levels of the male hormone testosterone in the blood. An example is Vitamin C 500 with zinc, rose hips, and Arctic chaga, where each tablet contains 10 mg of zinc. Additionally, vitamin C helps reduce fatigue.
Testosterone levels in men increase during puberty and begin to decline around the age of 30. The hormone affects, among other things, sex drive, sperm production, bone mass, muscle mass, fat storage, voice, facial hair, and red blood cell production. Low levels can lead to low mood, hair loss, reduced energy, slower metabolism, weight gain, lower sex drive, and reduced self-confidence. Sleep apnea can also be a consequence, which in turn can lead to increased fatigue.
Some studies show that magnesium can support testosterone levels in the blood, especially in combination with exercise. Additionally, zinc, magnesium, and vitamin D support muscle health. This is especially important for men, as they naturally have more muscle mass than women. For both men and women who exercise, magnesium is important because the body loses magnesium during physical activity.
Try our Premium Magnesium 3, which contains three forms of magnesium: citrate, bisglycinate, and taurate. This supplement also contains zinc, vitamin B6, and lingonberry. Vitamin D3 4000 with wild lingonberry is an excellent source of vitamin D3. Each tablet contains 4000 IU of vitamin D3 along with 25 mg of lingonberry powder. Taken in the morning, it can help improve mood.
Although men and women have different needs when it comes to supplements, you also need to consider age, physical activity level, and any chronic illnesses to find the right balance and meet the body's needs.