Let’s get this out of the way: No supplement can replace a good diet and an effective workout program. But if you are already eating right and training consistently, supplements can help fill the gaps in your diet. While no product on this list is necessarily superior for a specific gender, there may be a few that can suit your fitness and general health goals.
Our team of BarBend experts has tested the best creatine supplements, protein powders, and BCAAs (to name a few) to help provide all the supplements we think an athlete may need in their routine. Instead of taking the trial and error into your own hands, read on to learn about all the best supplements for men and athletes as a whole.
The 10 Best Supplements for Men of 2024
- Best Pre-Workout for Men: Transparent Labs BULK
- Best Creatine for Men: XWERKS Lift
- Best Protein Powder for Men: Jacked Factory Authentic ISO
- Best Gut Health Supplement for Men: Onnit Total Gut Health
- Best Multivitamin for Men: Ritual Essential Multivitamin
- Best Omega-3 Supplement for Men: Legion Triton
- Best Greens Powder for Men: Athletic Greens AG1
- Best BCAAs for Men: Momentous Vital Aminos
- Best Testosterone Supplement for Men: Transparent Labs Vitality
- Best Electrolyte Supplement for Men: Liquid IV
How We Tested and Chose the Best Supplements for Men
Our team of BarBend experts, including personal trainers and athletes, has been testing supplements (and everything else gym-related) for years. For this article, we evaluated supplements based on price, taste, and effectiveness, among other things. Here are the factors we considered:
Effects
Before recommending any supplements, our team likes to give them a first-hand try. For this list, we tried each product for its intended purpose, noting any benefits or side effects we felt. We also ran these products by our registered dietitian to make sure they’re safe for the general population.
Flavor and Solubility
Where applicable, we noted the flavor of the supplements we tested. For pre-workouts and protein powders, for instance, we made sure to choose supplements that tasted appetizing (or offered many flavor options) and diluted well in water. After all, who wants to sip on an awful-tasting, grainy supplement?
Dosage
Not all of the products on this list have an established clinically effective dose. Where it applies, we selected products that actually provide adequate amounts of the supplement (or active ingredients) at hand. We also made sure to point out where we thought products lacked in the dosage department.
Third-Party Testing
Our team values transparent companies and products. We also understand that the FDA doesn’t regulate some supplements as closely as it does others. So, we prioritized third-party-tested supplements. This helps ensure that readers are getting products with accurate labels that reflect the product.
Price
Adding a few supplements to your daily routine can cost a pretty penny. That being said, you don’t have to make a huge investment in order to add some high-quality products to your diet. We tried to balance price with well-produced, safe products.
Best Pre-Workout for Men: Transparent Labs Bulk
Transparent Labs BULK contains all-natural ingredients and big doses of L-citrulline malate and beta-alanine to promote muscle gain for your next workout.
Specs
- Form: Powder
- Highlights: 8,000mg of citrulline malate, 4,000mg of beta-alanine, 2,500mg of betaine, 180mg of caffeine
- Flavors: Strawberry Kiwi, Piña Colada, Blue Raspberry, Black Cherry, Peach Mango, Tropical Punch, Watermelon, Sour Grape, Green Apple, Orange, Strawberry Lemonade, Lemon Lime
- Servings: 30
- Price: $44.99
Pros
- There’s 180mg of caffeine in this pre-workout, which is great for those who only want a moderate caffeine kick.
- This supplement contains all-natural flavoring with zero artificial ingredients.
- There are 12 flavor options.
Cons
- If you want creatine in your pre-workout, you’ll have to look elsewhere.
- 200mg of caffeine may not be enough for some athletes.
- If you don’t like skin tingles, the 4,000mg of beta-alanine may not be right for you.
After trying about 70 different options, our team definitely considers Transparent Labs BULK among the best pre-workout supplements. “Bulk gets a 4.25 out of 5 for its formulation,” according to Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RDN. “It gets high scores for its ratio of ingredients and deductions for the proprietary blends and sodium content.”
Our tester tried Transparent Labs BULK for three separate workouts, including upper- and lower-body exercises. “After having BULK, I definitely felt focused throughout my whole workout,” he said. “I’ve definitely felt higher energy levels while training.” Our tester also noticed a pump, thanks to the ingredients in this product.
After shaking up this formula in a standard blender cup, we gave it a 5 out of 5 for solubility. Our team noticed zero clumping or floaties, which is exactly what you want with a pre-workout. Unfortunately, though, we had mixed opinions on flavors. While one of our testers absolutely loved the Blue Raspberry (and gave it a perfect score), our other product tester thought the Strawberry Lemonade didn’t taste as described, giving this one a 3.5 out of 5.
Luckily, neither of our testers noticed any unwanted side effects, so we gave this category a 5 out of 5 as well. “I did notice some slight tingling but nothing too strong,” our tester said. “I’ve definitely tried other pre-workout supplements where this sensation was overwhelming. That wasn’t the case here.”
Unfortunately, though, we did have to give this product a 3.5 out of 5 for price per serving. One 30-serving container costs $49.99, which is about $1.66 per serving. You can definitely find less expensive pre-workout supplements out there. So, if you’re shopping on a budget, you might prefer a more cost-friendly pick.
Read our full Transparent Labs BULK review.
Best Creatine for Men: XERKS Lift
Lift is Xwerks' creatine monohydrate supplement. One bag comes with 80 five-gram servings of micronized creatine monohydrate, making it easy to mix into water, or with other supplements in a stack.
Specs
- Form: Powder
- Highlights: 5,000mg of creatine monohydrate
- Flavors: Unflavored
- Servings: 80
- Price: $49
Pros
- 5,000mg of creatine monohydrate has been shown to be the effective dosage.
- This product only costs $0.61 per serving, which is more cost-friendly than others.
- The formula has no added ingredients or fillers.
Cons
- There’s only one flavor option.
- Some athletes may want a creatine with some additional workout-focused ingredients.
Sometimes the simplest supplements are the best. And if you’re looking for a creatine supplement for men with few added ingredients, XWERKS Lift is a solid choice. “XWERKS Lift gets a 4.5 out of 5 for formulation,” according to Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RDN. “The micronized creatine is easily digested and the supplement doesn’t contain any unnecessary stuff.”
Our team enjoyed the straightforward formula and also the product solubility. “The product doesn’t have any texture or graininess when you sip it,” our tester said, giving the solubility a 4.75 out of 5. “I couldn’t give a perfect score, though, because there was a little bit of residue at the bottom of my glass.”
Unfortunately, this product doesn’t have any flavor options. However, that’s actually pretty common for creatine. “I actually prefer an unflavored creatine supplement,” our tester said, giving the flavor a 5 out of 5. “That makes it easy to mix with other supplements. In coffee or protein, I didn’t even notice the powder.”
We do wish this product were third-party tested, though. After scouring the XWERKS website, we weren’t able to find any certifications or indication of third-party testing. While our testers do consider XWERKS a pretty transparent brand, we would have liked to see some validation.
Where the price per serving is concerned, XWERKS earned an absolutely perfect score. One 80-serving container costs $49, which is only about $0.61 per serving. Whenever you can find any supplement that’s less than a dollar per serving, it’s a steal.
Read our full XWERKS Lift Creatine review.
Best Protein Powder for Men: Jacked Factory Authentic ISO
Dig into this easily digesting grass-fed whey isolate that provides 25 grams of protein with each lean 110 calorie scoop. It comes in three tasty flavors at a cost-effective price making it a solid choice for nearly anyone.
Specs
- Form: Powder
- Highlights: 25g whey protein isolate, 0-4g carbohydrates, 0-1g fat
- Flavors: Unflavored, Vanilla Oatmeal Cookie, Vanilla, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Cinnamon French Toast, Chocolate, Cookies & Cream, Fruity Cereal
- Servings: 30
- Price: $34.99
Pros
- The low fat and carbs in this protein are ideal for athletes who want to add lean muscle.
- There’s an unflavored option, which is great for mixing into smoothies.
- At under $40 for a month’s supply, this is a reasonable price for whey isolate.
Cons
- This is a milk-based protein, so vegan athletes should try a different protein.
- There are artificial flavors in this protein, so if you’re looking for an all-natural option, look elsewhere.
Protein is the main building block for muscle, and the best protein powders can help athletes build more strength. “Jacked Factory Authentic ISO earns a 4.25 out of 5 for its formulation with deductions for its sodium content and lack of third-party testing,” according to Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RDN.
This formula has 25 grams of protein, a maximum of 1 gram of fat, and 4 grams of carbohydrates, making it an ultra-lean option. Its low fat and carb content makes this protein powder ideal for those prioritizing weight loss, too.
“I tried the vanilla flavor and I think it definitely tasted accurate,” our tester said, giving the taste a 4 out of 5. “It was a little bit sweeter than I’d like, though.” Our testers have also tried the Fruity Cereal flavor, which we thought also tasted pretty true to the description.
We also gave the solubility a 4 out of 5. The product mixed pretty well, and we didn’t notice an undesirable texture. However, our product testers noticed a little bit of powder still floating around their shaker cups.
This formula isn’t the cheapest but it also isn’t the most expensive. We gave the price per serving a 4 out of 5, as it costs about $1.49 per serve. You can definitely find less expensive protein powders out there, but this formula has solid macros and no questionable ingredients
[Related: Best Whey Protein Powders]
Best Gut Health Supplement for Men: Onnit Total Gut Health
This supplement is packed with pre- and probiotics, as well as fiber from Jerusalem artichoke and dandelion root. The convenient single-serving packets make it easy to take it on the go.
Specs
- Form: Capsules
- Highlights: 250mg Saccharomyces boulardii, 450mg probiotic blend, 900mg organic Jerusalem artichoke, 600mg organic dandelion root, 500mg betaine HCl, poprietary digestive blends
- Servings: 15
- Price: $37.95
Pros
- This gut-focused supplement has 15 billion CFU of probiotics in it.
- The capsules have prebiotics, which are helpful for your gut health.
- Onnit Total Gut Health also has digestive enzymes.
Cons
- There are seven capsules per serving.
- This isn’t the most cost-friendly supplement.
Gut health can be an overlooked aspect of fitness, but when you’re having digestive issues, you’ll wish you’d taken better care of your microbiome. Gut health supplements are generally made up of probiotics, a selection of beneficial bacteria and yeast that live in your stomach that can help you digest your food and keep you healthy.
We like that Onnit Total Gut Health takes their supplement a step further, including both prebiotics and digestive enzymes in addition to the 15 billion CFU of probiotics. Of course, it’s important to note that the =digestive enzymes are part of a proprietary blend. The brand recommends you take one packet with your largest meal of the day to help aid digestion. While we do like the formula here, we had to give it a 4 out of 5, as you can find gut health supplements with higher probiotic levels.
According to the brand, most users see pretty instant results. However, we don’t love that the serving size is seven capsules. While they do come conveniently pre-packaged, we wish the serving size were smaller. For athletes who are pill-averse, we definitely recommend going with another product.
Our team also had to give the price per serving a 3.5 out of 5. One 15-serving box costs $37.95, which is about $2.53 per serving. If you’re looking to save a little money, you can definitely find a more cost-friendly probiotic supplement.
[Related: The Best Post-Workout Supplements for Muscle Recovery, Mass Gain, And More]
Best Multivitamin for Men: Ritual Essential Multivitamin
A handsome multivitamin that delivers a range of nutrients men tend to fall short on.
Specs
- Form: Capsule
- Highlights: Provides more than 100 percent of your daily value for vitamins and minerals like vitamin D3 and vitamin B12, includes omega-3s
- Flavors: Mint essence
- Servings: 30
- Price: $26.40
Pros
- These multivitamin capsules provide essential vitamins and essential nutrients.
- This supplement provides zinc, a micronutrient that’s important for athletes.
- Compared to other similar supplements, this one is pretty cost-friendly.
Cons
- There’s no vitamin C in this multivitamin.
- You don’t get any sodium in this supplement, which is another nutrient many athletes need and lack (especially if they sweat a lot).
When your balanced diet falls short of some essential vitamins and nutrients, a multivitamin supplement is a great solution. And the Momentous Essential Multi is sure to fill those gaps for your overall health — and then some.
This product packs plenty of the best vitamins and nutrients, including vitamin A, vitamin D3, vitamin E, folate, vitamin B12, magnesium, and zinc. And unlike most multivitamin supplements, this formula also includes 330 milligrams of omega-3s. We did have to give the formulation a 4 out of 5, though, as it’s missing vitamin C. However, Ritual claims this is because some research has found that we actually get sufficient vitamin C from our food.
Unlike some other multivitamins, this daily supplement for men only requires two capsules per serving, which we liked. And our testers actually liked the aftertaste Ritual added, giving the flavor a 5 out of 5. It has a slow-releasing minty essence, which helps hide the fish oil. Plus, if you’re looking for one of the best multivitamin supplements for men over 50, Ritual makes that version, too.
“I’d say the most notable thing about these is the flavor of the pills,” according to Kate Meier, BarBend editorial member and certified personal trainer. “It seems a little unnecessary but I think it’s a good touch, too. The first bottle I took of this product tasted minty but the one I have now is a little lemon-y.”
The price per serving for this product is pretty affordable, which our team also enjoyed, giving this factor a 5 out of 5. One 30-serving bottle is $26.40, which is only about $0.88 per serving. “My only complaint is that the label on the bottle is impossible to read,” Meier added. “The brand uses white text on a clear bottle with gold pills, which is impractical. And the letters are TINY.”
Best Omega-3 Supplement for Men: Legion Triton
A high-potency, molecularly distilled fish oil with additional vitamin E and lemon oil, this supplement from Legion meets stringent purity standards and is sourced from sustainable fisheries.
Specs
- Form: Softgel
- Highlights: 1440mg EPA, 960mg DHA, 48 IU vitamin E
- Flavors: N/A
- Servings: 30
- Price: $49.99
Pros
- This omega-3 supplement packs 2400mg of EPA/DHA, which may be helpful for heart health.
- There are no artificial flavors or additives here.
- Legion’s fish oil is sustainably sourced and third-party verified.
Cons
- You can likely find less expensive fish oil supplements.
- You have to take four soft gels per serving, which may be a lot for some.
Omega-3 fatty acids are common in fish and seafood. Their positive health benefits on the cardiovascular system are well-documented, but it can be hard to eat enough to get those benefits (especially if you don’t like seafood). That’s where supplementation comes in.
This supplement is our favorite because it’s loaded with 4000 milligrams of fish oil, which is more than the more common 2,000-milligram dose you’ll find in others. This is good news because omega-3s may reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes, particularly in those with an elevated risk of heart disease or cardiovascular issues. (3)
More good news: This contains 2400 milligrams of EPA/DHA, which may reduce the risk of nonfatal heart syndromes, as well as lower inflammation (in other words, your knees will thank you). (4)(5)
“Personally, I split the four-capsule serving into two servings per day with meals,” according to our tester, Kate Meier, CPT, BarBend editorial member and certified personal trainer, who gave side effects a 4.5 out of 5. “I didn’t experience any fishy aftertaste or burps.” However, she did notice a fishy smell of the capsules but not nearly as bad as she has experienced with other fish oil supplements.
Our team gave Legion a 5 out of 5 for third-party testing, too. Legion is a transparent brand that presents all the research they did to create this supplement. We also liked that it’s sustainably sourced and certified by Friend of the Sea, a project of the World Sustainability Organization.
We do wish the product were just a smidge less pricey, though. One 30-serving bottle costs $44.99, which is about $1.50 per serving. For price per serving, our team had to give this product a 3.5 out of 5, as it may not fall within every athlete’s budget — you can find cheaper omega-3 supplements out there. However, we love the transparency, dosage, and sustainability factor.
Best Greens Powder for Men: Athletic Greens AG1
This nutritious greens powder is NSF certified for sport and includes 75 absorbable ingredients and is free of gluten, sugar, dairy, eggs, and peanuts. It is compatible with vegan, keto, and paleo diets.
Specs
- Form: Powder
- Highlights: 555mcg vitamin A, 420mg of vitamin C, 22mcg of vitamin B12, 118mg of calcium, 300mg of potassium, 154mg of digestive enzymes, 38mg probiotics
- Flavors: Pineapple Vanilla
- Servings: 30
- Price: $79
Pros
- This greens powder has essential vitamins and nutrients in high doses.
- AG1 adds probiotics and digestive enzymes for gut health.
- This product doesn’t taste half bad, especially for a greens powder.
Cons
- $79 for a month’s worth of product is a tough pill to swallow.
- There’s no vitamin D in this formula.
- Some ingredients come in proprietary blends, so it’s hard to say how much of everything you’re getting.
It can be hard for athletes to get everything they need just from the food they eat, which is where greens powders come in. Basically a selection of vegetables that are dehydrated and powdered for easy consumption, greens powders are intended to boost your vegetable intake and fill in your nutritional gaps.
We love Athletic Greens’ AG1 exhaustingly long list of vitamins, minerals, prebiotics, digestive enzymes, and nootropics. You get more than 100 percent of your daily requirement for vitamin C, most B vitamins, and zinc. Some of the ingredients are in proprietary blends, though, so you don’t know exactly how much of each ingredient you’re getting.
“AG1 Athletic Greens gets a 3 out of 5 for its formulation, with major deductions for its proprietary blends and cost,” according to Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RDN. “For many, the cost doesn’t match the purported benefits.” At about $2.63 per serving, this formula definitely isn’t the most affordable.
However, compared to other greens powders, the plant-based taste actually isn’t too earthy. I drank this supplement consistently for a few months, and the Pineapple Vanilla definitely cuts the bitter taste of the greens. Overall, I’d give the flavor a 4 out of 5.
I do have to knock AG1 down a few points for the solubility, though, to a 3 out of 5. I tried mixing my greens with an electric stirrer and a shaker bottle, but neither mechanism was able to keep the drink from settling. However, I sipped mine with a straw, which enabled me to mix pretty consistently.
Read our full Athletic Greens AG1 review.
Best BCAAs for Men: Momentous Vital Aminos
This supplement blends nine essential amino acids to help build strength and improve your performance. One bag costs $44.95 and comes in a tropical punch flavor.
Specs
- Form: Powder
- Highlights: 2,500mg L-Leucine, 725mg L-Lysine, 625mg L-Isoleucine, 50mg L-Methionine, 20mg L-Tryptophan, 625mg L-Valine
- Flavors: Tropical Punch
- Servings: 30
- Price: $44.95
Pros
- This supplement packs all nine essential amino acids with few added ingredients.
- There are no artificial sweeteners or colorings.
- It’s third-party tested and Informed Sport certified.
Cons
- It only has one flavor option.
- The $1.49 per serving price tag is a bit pricey.
Branched-chain amino acids can help your body build muscle, reduce soreness, and even stave off fatigue during workouts. Momentous Vital Aminos packs 13 amino acids, which can go a long way in reducing soreness and speeding up recovery after hard workouts. (8)
“Our bodies can’t make essential amino acids, so we have to get them through our diet,” explains Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RDN. “While you can get them from a variety of foods, Vital Aminos makes it easy. You get all nine in one scoop. And it’s also Informed Sport certified!”
While we do like the inclusion of all the essential aminos, Bourgeois did have to give the overall formulation a 2.5 out of 5. The amount of each ingredient leaves you wanting more, she says. “Adding small portions of a few specific foods can give you more [BCAAs] than you get in this formulation — and at a lower cost,” she explains.
That being said, we do like the third-party testing and certification, so Momentous gets a perfect 5 out of 5 in that category. And we like that the brand uses no artificial flavors, sugars, or colorings, which you won’t find with most other BCAA products.
Our team does wish this product were a little more budget-friendly, giving it a 3 out of 5 in the cost category. One 30-serving bag costs $44.95, which is about $1.49 per serving. While you can subscribe to monthly deliveries for $35.96 per bag, you can still find cheaper BCAA supplements on the market.
[Related: Best BCAA Supplements]
Best Testosterone Supplement for Men: Transparent Labs Vitality
Each two-capsule serving provides 600 milligrams of organic ashwagandha alongside 15 milligrams of zinc. It is free of artificial sweeteners, colorings, gluten, and GMOs.
Specs
- Form: Capsules
- Highlights: 15mg zinc, 600mg Organic Ashwagandha Extract, 250mg Shilajit Extract, 250mg Quercetin Dihydrate, 5mg Boron
- Flavors: N/A
- Servings: 30
- Price: $54.99
Pros
- The DAA may increase testosterone production.
- Indole-3-carbinol (I3C) may suppress an enzyme that lowers testosterone levels.
- It’s made in FDA-registered, cGMP-certified facilities.
Cons
- The capsules contain gelatin, so this is a no-go for vegans.
- You have to take six pills daily, which may be a hard pill to swallow for some.
One big concern for some adults, especially as they get older, is dropping testosterone levels. One way to combat this is with a supplement geared towards helping testosterone increase. For this purpose, our team likes Transparent Labs Vitality.
“I’d score this a 4.25 out of 5 for its formulation,” according to Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RDN. “The research is there — Vitality uses clinical doses of proven ingredients.” Vitality packs 15mg of zinc (136 percent of your daily value), an essential mineral. Although this ingredient isn’t going to skyrocket your testosterone instantly, zinc deficiency may reduce testosterone levels. (7)
“Many testosterone boosters are available over the counter, but the FDA doesn’t regulate these products, so I love that Transparent Labs has Vitality tested by a third-party lab to be Informed-Sport certified,” Bourgeois said. So, naturally, our team gave this product a 5 out of 5 for third-party testing.
Bourgeois also liked the use of ashwagandha, which has been linked to improved testosterone levels. (6) And the iindolylmethane (DIM) in Vitality is a bioactive metabolite of indole-3-carbinol (I3C), which can prevent drops in testosterone. (10) Plus, there are no artificial sweeteners or colorings in this product, so it’s safe for those following gluten-free or vegan diets.
We did have to give this product a 3 out of 5 for price per serving, though. One 30-serving container costs $54.99, making it about $1.83 per serving. Realistically, you can buy a lot of these ingredients on their own for less than $54.99 total. However, if you don’t want to be taking a bunch of individual capsules, this is a good choice.
Best Electrolyte Supplement for Men: Liquid IV
Liquid IV's hydration multiplier is ideal for athletes who like to take their workouts on-the-go, thanks to the convenient single-serving packets. These also contain additional vitamins and nutrients.
Specs
- Form: Powder
- Highlights: 40-50 calories per serving, 11-13g of carbs
- Flavors: Strawberry Lemonade, Seaberry, Tropical Punch, Pina Colada, Concord Grape, Golden Cherry, Acai Berry, Guava, Lemon Lime, Passion Fruit, Strawberry, Watermelon
- Servings: 16
- Price: $24.99
Pros
- This supplement is packed with electrolyte ingredients, including potassium and sodium.
- The carbs in this formula are fast-digesting, so you get some extra energy.
- This comes in tons of flavors, including a variety pack option.
Cons
- You do get 11 grams of added sugar.
- Those who want a calorie-free electrolyte supplement may need to look elsewhere.
In our opionion, Liquid IV is among the best electrolyte supplements on the market — and for good reason. Our team absolutely loved the product in and out of training. “Liquid IV gets a 4 out of 5 for its formulation,” according to Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RDN. “It contains essential vitamins and electrolytes that can support your best workout and recovery.” We just wish it didn’t have the 11 grams of added sugar but these additional carbs may offer some extra workout energy.
After plenty of Liquid IV-fueled bike rides and runs, I definitely think this product does its job. My long endurance workouts can be incredibly depleting but with this powder in my water bottle, I definitely felt more energized. As far as the product’s effects are concerned, I’d give it a 4 out of 5.
Personally, I didn’t notice any issues with this powder’s solubility. However, our other tester did have a tip. “Don’t try to mix this powder with less than 16 ounces of liquid,” she said. “If you use too little liquid, the texture is grainy and too strong.” That being considered, we gave the solubility a 5 out of 5.
I’ve only tried the Lemon Lime flavor myself and it honestly wasn’t my favorite. I think it tasted really artificial, so I’d have to give it a 3 out of 5. I also think there’s a little too much sodium (another thing our RD called out, too) and it really comes out in the flavor. During a 60-mile bike ride, this supplement left my mouth feeling too salty, despite the fact that I was sweating a ton. So, I’d actually suggest mixing it with even more water than recommended.
When it comes to overall value, we thought this one was pretty pricey. One 16-serving bag costs $24.99, which is about $1.56 per serve. We had to give this category a 3 out of 5, as you can definitely find more cost-friendly electrolytes.
What to Consider When Buying the Best Supplements for Men
The category of best supplements for men is a far-reaching one. In order to hone in on all the supplements you may need, take your personal health, fitness goals, and activity levels into account. Here are a few factors to consider:
Ingredients
For a lot of supplements, the ingredient list should be fairly straightforward. For example, if you’re buying a protein supplement, its first ingredient should be (you guessed it) protein. But even with protein, there are nuances — different types of proteins, additives, etc. Try to opt for a formula that’s as simple as possible. Or, at the very least, adds ingredients that may benefit your goals (or won’t harm them).
Dosage
Having the right ingredients doesn’t mean much if you don’t have an effective dosage. So, in addition to the ingredients, also check for effective doses. For example, studies show that 5,000mg of creatine can be effective in amplifying athletic performance and muscle hypertrophy, so we chose a creatine supplement that had 5,000mg of creatine. (2)
For supplements like protein powder that are designed to boost your macronutrient intake, we looked for supplements that had higher doses. A protein supplement that had 20 to 25 grams of protein per scoop received more consideration than, say, a protein powder with 10 to 15 grams of protein.
When possible, research the recommended daily value of a supplement or look into the common amounts you should be getting each day.
Third-Party Testing
Whenever possible, put an emphasis on brands and products that present some sort of third-party testing. This helps ensure that the product you’re buying is safe and presents an accurate nutritional label.
We gave preference to products that are certified by reputable organizations like U.S. Pharmacopeia (USP) or the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF), as well as the NSF International Certification for Sport, which certifies that a product does not contain any prohibited substances.
Fitness Goals
Athletes with different fitness goals will have different nutritional needs. Therefore, consider what types of supplements may benefit your training most. If you’re looking to hit a new squat PR, some creatine and protein may be good to include in your supplement stack. Or, if you’re someone who lives a busy lifestyle and doesn’t often have time for diverse meals, a greens powder may be able to help fill some nutritional gaps.
[Related: Best Supplements for Muscle Growth]
Physician Guidance
Everyone’s body is different, and what works for one athlete may not be best for your needs. The supplements on this list are pretty well-researched and should be safe for the general population. Nevertheless, if you have any pre-existing conditions or just general health concerns, it’s best to follow the guidance of a personal physician or registered dietitian.
How Much Do the Best Supplements for Men Cost?
Supplements for men can come in a variety of forms — from protein and creatine powders to multivitamins and probiotics — and the prices of our picks represent that diversity. The following chart puts the prices of our picks side by side.
Best Pre-Workout for Men | Transparent Labs BULK | $44.99 for 30 servings |
Best Creatine for Men | XWERKS Lift | $49 for 80 servings |
Best Protein Powder for Men | Jacked Factory Authentic ISO | $34.99 for 30 servings |
Best Gut Health Supplement for Men | Onnit Total Gut Health | $37.95 for 15 servings |
Best Multivitamin for Men | Ritual Essential Multivitamin | $26.40 for 30 servings |
Best Omega-3 Supplement for Men | Legion Triton | $49.99 for 30 servings |
Best Greens Powder for Men | Athletic Greens AG1 | $79 for 30 servings |
Best BCAAs for Men | Momentous Vital Aminos | $44.95 for 30 servings |
Best Testosterone Supplement for Men | Transparent Labs Vitality | $54.99 for 30 servings |
Best Electrolyte Supplement for Men | Liquid IV | $24.99 for 16 servings |
Benefits of Supplements for Men
As the name suggests, supplements are intended to supplement a healthy diet and a consistent, effective workout regimen. Nothing on this list is going to get you to your goals if you’re not eating right and putting the hours in at the gym. But, if you’re taking care of the essentials, supplements can help you in many areas of health and fitness. Some of the biggest ways supplements can benefit men are by filling in gaps in your nutrition, providing nutrients that men are commonly deficient in, and helping to bolster your performance in the gym.
Pre-Workout
Designed to be taken before your workouts, pre-workouts are meant to give you an energy boost and improve your focus during exercise. This can help you get in a more intense workout and push you through days when you’re feeling sluggish. Most often, these supplements use caffeine and other stimulants like beta-alanine, which not only delivers those fun skin tingles but can also stave off fatigue during long sets. (11)
Protein Powder
One of the more simple supplements, protein powder is for people who want to add protein to their diet without adding a lot of fat and carbohydrates to their daily macros. As the main building block for muscle, adding protein powder to one’s diet can help speed up the recovery process, helping men pack on muscle and get back in the gym sooner after a tough workout. (12)
Creatine
One of the most studied and vetted supplements available, creatine provides fuel for your muscles in the form of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). Studies have shown that adding a creatine supplement can not only help build strength but may also help the body increase muscle mass as well. (2)
Omega-3s
Commonly found in fatty fish and other seafood, omega-3 fatty acids can reduce the risk of negative cardiac events like strokes and heart attacks. (3) But it can be hard to get enough omega-3s to have this effect. A good omega-3 supplement can help bolster your intake.
BCAAs
Branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) are essential amino acids that can help your body build muscle, reduce soreness, and speed up recovery after exercise. (8) While you can get some BCAAs through your diet, supplementing with BCAAs may increase their effect.
Greens Powders
At its most basic, a greens powder is a selection of nutrient-rich vegetables that have been dehydrated and ground into a powder. This concentrates the micronutrients in those vegetables, so you can get a solid dose of them by mixing the powder in water and slugging it down.
Supplementing with fruit and vegetable concentrate can help prevent non-communicable diseases, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, and chronic respiratory disease. (9)
Testosterone Boosters
Increasing your testosterone can have positive effects on a man’s energy, strength, muscle growth, and even sex drive. A test booster may help with that, especially in older men. Often, they’ll use ingredients like vitamin D, which studies suggest may influence testosterone levels. (1)
Probiotics
Made up of beneficial bacteria and yeast that reside in your digestive tract, probiotics can be taken to bolster your microbiome. Increasing the amount of good bacteria may help your body digest food better and fight off illness. Studies have also suggested that probiotics may even help some people digest milk products (which can come in handy if you’re taking in a lot of whey protein). (13)
[Related: Best Supplements for Weight Loss]
Final Word
Supplements can’t replace a good diet and exercise, but they can be a helpful tool for men who want to round out their nutrition or boost their performance in the gym. While there’s not one supplement that can do everything, there is a supplement in just about every category, so it’s best to know why you’re taking a supplement before you start shopping.
When looking for the right supplement for you, think about what needs you want the supplement to fulfill, then look for supplements in that category that have ingredients that are proven to be effective and are priced within your budget. You can use this list to help you get started.
FAQs
What is the best supplement for men?
Supplements come in many different categories, so it really depends on what effect you’re looking for. But right now, our current favorite is Transparent Labs BULK pre-workout. In addition to being an effective way to boost energy before a workout, it’s loaded with a good amount of ingredients that may help boost testosterone levels.
What vitamins actually work for men?
While all of the supplements on this list have scientific research backing their effectiveness, some men may not need creatine or extra protein. However, studies have shown that men tend to lack certain vitamins, like vitamins B and D, so it could be beneficial to find a multivitamin or greens powder that contains those vitamins.
Are supplements for men safe?
The FDA doesn’t approve dietary supplements, so you’ll have to look for other certifications like a USP or ISF certification to ensure a supplement’s quality. Even then, you should check with a physician when considering a supplement to make sure that it doesn’t contain anything that you may have a bad reaction to.
Resources
- Monson NR, Klair N, Patel U, et al. Association Between Vitamin D Deficiency and Testosterone Levels in Adult Males: A Systematic Review. Cureus. 2023;15(9):e45856. Published 2023 Sep 24. doi:10.7759/cureus.45856
- Naderi A, de Oliveira EP, Ziegenfuss TN, Willems MT. Timing, Optimal Dose and Intake Duration of Dietary Supplements with Evidence-Based Use in Sports Nutrition. J Exerc Nutrition Biochem. 2016;20(4):1-12. doi:10.20463/jenb.2016.0031
- Khan SU, Lone AN, Khan MS, et al. Effect of omega-3 fatty acids on cardiovascular outcomes: A systematic review and meta-analysis. EClinicalMedicine. 2021;38:100997. Published 2021 Jul 8. doi:10.1016/j.eclinm.2021.100997
- So J, Wu D, Lichtenstein AH, et al. EPA and DHA differentially modulate monocyte inflammatory response in subjects with chronic inflammation in part via plasma specialized pro-resolving lipid mediators: A randomized, double-blind, crossover study. Atherosclerosis. 2021;316:90-98. doi:10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2020.11.018
- Bernasconi AA, Wiest MM, Lavie CJ, Milani RV, Laukkanen JA. Effect of Omega-3 Dosage on Cardiovascular Outcomes: An Updated Meta-Analysis and Meta-Regression of Interventional Trials. Mayo Clin Proc. 2021;96(2):304-313. doi:10.1016/j.mayocp.2020.08.034
- Lopresti AL, Drummond PD, Smith SJ. A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Crossover Study Examining the Hormonal and Vitality Effects of Ashwagandha ( Withania somnifera) in Aging, Overweight Males. Am J Mens Health. 2019 Mar-Apr;13(2):1557988319835985. doi: 10.1177/1557988319835985. PMID: 30854916; PMCID: PMC6438434.
- Te L, Liu J, Ma J, Wang S. Correlation between serum zinc and testosterone: A systematic review. J Trace Elem Med Biol. 2023 Mar;76:127124. doi: 10.1016/j.jtemb.2022.127124. Epub 2022 Dec 23. PMID: 36577241.
- Martinho, D., Nobari H., et al. Oral Branched-Chain Amino Acids Supplementation in Athletes: A Systematic Review (2022). Nutrients. 2022 Oct; 14(19): 4002
- Lorenzoni G, Minto C, Vecchio MG, et al. Fruit and Vegetable Concentrate Supplementation and Cardiovascular Health: A Systematic Review from a Public Health Perspective. J Clin Med. 2019;8(11):1914. Published 2019 Nov 8. doi:10.3390/jcm8111914
- De Santi, M., Carloni, E., et al. Inhibition of Testosterone Aromatization by the Indole-3-carbinol Derivative CTet in CYP19A1-overexpressing MCF-7 Breast Cancer Cells (2015). Anticancer Agents in Medical Chemistry. 2015;15(7):896-904. doi: 10.2174/1871520615666150121123053.
- Trexler, E., Smith-Ryan, A., et al. International society of sports nutrition position stand: Beta-Alanine (2015). Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition.Published online 2015 Jul 15. doi: 10.1186/s12970-015-0090-y
- Cintineo, H., Arent, M., et al. Effects of Protein Supplementation on Performance and Recovery in Resistance and Endurance Training (2018). Front Nutr. 2018; 5: 83.
- Tegegne, B., Kebede, B. Probiotics, their prophylactic and therapeutic applications in human health development: A review of the literature. (2022). Heliyon. 2022 Jun; 8(6): e09725.