Multivitamins: Are they different for men and women?

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Multivitamins play a big part in helping people stay healthy, and the fast pace of modern life can often take its toll on our daily intake of nutrients. But do men and women benefit from the same nutrients or are they different for each sex? Berocca examines exactly what nutrients are needed by the human body and whether men and women have different nutritional requirements, as well as how multivitamins can help…

Multivitamin benefits

Eating a healthy, balanced diet should be able to provide all the nutrients the body needs. However, some people in certain circumstances may require a little extra support, which is where multivitamins can come into play – supplementing any nutritional gaps to help ensure you get your necessary nutrients.

Of course, you may wish to consult a doctor or other qualified medical practitioner before starting to take multivitamins regularly.

Multivitamins for men

Physiologically speaking, men are different from women, therefore their bodies have different needs. When compared to women, men require more of some nutrients and less of others. Ingredients to look out for if you’re a man include:

• Selenium, which contributes to normal thyroid function and helps support normal function of the immune system
• Vitamin B12 contributes to normal energy-yielding metabolism
• Vitamin D helps to maintain normal muscle function

Multivitamins for women

Just as with men, women need the correct balance of nutrients in their diet. Ingredients to keep a lookout for if you’re a woman include:

• Vitamin C, which contributes to normal psychological function
• Vitamin E – contributes to the protection of cells from oxidative stress
• Vitamin B6 – contributes to normal energy-yielding metabolism
• Folate (folic acid) – helps reduce tiredness and fatigue
• Vitamin D – contributes to the maintenance of normal bones
• Vitamin K – contributes to normal blood clotting

You can always speak to a medical professional if you’re concerned about your nutritional levels and would like further guidance. 

And remember, if you’re pregnant, supplemental folic acid intake increases maternal folate status. Low maternal folate status is a risk factor in the development of neural tube defects in the developing foetus.