GNC Mega Men is a premium men’s multivitamin supplement produced in the GNC multivitamins range. Specifically designed for men, it claims to provide immune support, boost sexual functions and brain health, heart health, and prostate health, and generally improve overall wellness.
Given all GNC Mega Men offers and the many reviews giving it 5 out of 5 stars, I was keen to add it to my daily regimen. However, after deciding to purchase the multivitamin, I quickly found it was not the amazing supplement they said it was. I’ll show you why in the following GNC Mega Men review.
Pros
- Features a good selection of vitamins and minerals, as well as other ingredients
- One of the more reasonably priced multivitamins
- Subscriptions that offer a 10% discount and free shipping are available
- Dairy and gluten-free
Cons
- Many of the essential nutrients are included in very low or high doses
- Many previous customers have complained about side effects
- It seems to have minimal impact on your overall health
- Most of the B vitamins are present in ridiculously high doses
Quick Verdict
GNC Mega Men markets itself as one of the best-selling multivitamins on the market and a dietary supplement that consistently receives 5 out of 5 stars from past users.
Unfortunately, after our own review, it is clear that it’s not one of the better supplements for meeting daily needs.
Instead, we suggest you try Prime Male T Vitamins. This multivitamin is full of essential nutrients and other ingredients, all of which are present in their recommended daily value. It will help men enjoy all of the benefits that multivitamins are meant to provide.
GNC Mega Men Multivitamin Ingredients
Vitamin A – 1500 MCG
Vitamin A promotes growth, improves heart, lung, immune system, skin, and eye health, boosts reproductive organ and cellular functions, and keeps the body healthy [1].
Vitamin C – 300 MG
Vitamin C is one of the most important vitamins as it aids collagen and neurotransmitter production, enhances bone, cartilage, muscle, organ, skin, and tooth strength, growth, and repair, boosts immune health and metabolism, and prevents or combats diseases.
However, as more than 3 times the daily recommended intake is present here, it may also cause side effects [2].
Vitamin D – 50 MCG
Vitamin D helps support heart, bone, and muscle strength, provides mood and immune support, and prevents depression and low testosterone levels and production [3].
Vitamin E – 20.1 MG
Vitamin E is made up of multiple antioxidants that help maintain nerves and cells, improve blood, eye, skin, and brain health and functions, and prevent or reduce inflammation, oxidative stress, and damage [4].
Vitamin K – 80 MCG
Vitamin K makes vitamin D easier to absorb and more effective. It also boosts bone density and strength and improves muscle growth, testosterone levels, and production.
However, as the vitamin K1 used here is not as adequate as vitamin K2, it will not deliver these benefits as well as it could [5].
Thiamine – 50 MG
Thiamine aids cellular growth and development and the breakdown of certain nutrients. It also helps you focus, improves your energy production and nerve functions, and protects the nerves from damage.
Unfortunately, the insanely high daily dose will likely cause side effects [6].
Riboflavin – 50 MG
Riboflavin is vital in producing antibodies and blood cells, promotes muscle, organ, and skin growth and repair, boosts your metabolic rate, aids digestion and cellular respiration, and reduces inflammation. Again, though, the dosage present is far too high and puts your health at risk [7].
Niacin – 50 MG
Niacin improves brain, joint, organ, skin, digestive, and nervous system health and functions, as well as energy and cholesterol levels. Yet again, though, the dosage used is a bit high and liable to cause side effects [8].
Vitamin B-6 – 50 MG
Vitamin B6 gives you more energy, provides brain and immune support, aids amino acid, fat, and sugar metabolism and neurotransmitter biosynthesis, and combats fatigue. Unfortunately, the insanely high dosage used again puts you at risk of side effects [9].
Folic Acid – 400 MCG
Folic acid supports the production of DNA, RNA, and testosterone, improves amino acid metabolism, bodily tissue growth and repair, and sexual functions, and prevents anemia and its symptoms [10].
Vitamin B-12 – 50 MCG
Vitamin B12 improves brain and nerve functions, aids energy, DNA, bone marrow, nerve, red blood cell, and testosterone production, boosts your metabolism, and prevents select mental issues.
Yet again, though, the insanely high dosage will likely cause side effects [11].
Biotin – 300 MCG
Biotin improves bone, hair, nails, skin, eye, liver, and central nervous system health and functions, the metabolism of many nutrients, and blood sugar and enzyme levels.
Unfortunately, the product’s high biotin content makes it very unlikely that it would do any of this safely [12].
Pantothenic Acid – 50 MCG
Pantothenic acid aids fat metabolism and neurotransmitter production improves memory, brain and nervous system health and functions, and prevents mental fatigue.
As we have come to expect, though, the ridiculously high dose used is very likely to lead to complications [13].
Choline – 10 MG
Choline can boost brain health, functions, performance, memory, focus, motivation, muscle contractions, nutrient metabolism, cholesterol levels, and learning and loss of fat and weight. The issue is that the dose in this multivitamin is far too low to do any of this [14].
Calcium – 200 MG
Calcium improves the health and strength of the bones and heart, regulates hormone production and levels, and enhances muscle growth, weight loss, and general well-being.
Unfortunately, since so little has been put into the GNC multivitamin, it will likely not do any of this [15].
Iodine – 150 MCG
Iodine boosts metabolic rate, mood, brain, gut, and thyroid functions, as well as the production of certain hormones and the ability to lose weight [16].
Magnesium – 100 MG
Magnesium promotes relaxation, better sleep quality, bone and muscle strength, and testosterone levels while reducing pain and SHBG (sex hormone binding globulin) levels and preventing dehydration [17].
Zinc – 25 MG
Zinc promotes growth, healthy aging, better immunity, testosterone and DNA production, wound healing, blood clotting, eyesight, mood, metabolism, and reduces inflammation [18].
Selenium – 200 MCG
Selenium is an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory that supports numerous systems in the human body and keeps us healthy. However, this multivitamin contains more than three times the suggested daily dose, which may also cause side effects [19].
Copper – 2 MG
Copper improves the health and functions of the blood vessels, bones, hair, nerves, respiratory and immune systems, blood cell production, and nutrient absorption, and it prevents heart disease and osteopetrosis [20].
Manganese – 2 MG
Taking manganese in supplements improves the formation and growth of bones and your metabolism of nutrients, blood sugar levels, and brain and nerve functions, and prevents or reduces inflammation.
However, the dose used appears too low to produce these benefits to their full effects [21].
Chromium – 120 MCG
Chromium enhances neurotransmitter activity, insulin sensitivity, weight loss, libido, blood sugar levels, hunger control, muscle growth and strength, and metabolic rate, and prevents weight gain and depression.
However, with over three times the required amount present, it could cause side effects [22].
Molybdenum – 75 MCG
Taking molybdenum in supplements improves DNA and protein synthesis, which helps the body break down toxic substances and prevents them from harming [23].
Amino Acid Blend – 100 MG
The Amino Acid Blend consists of equal doses of l-arginine and l-glutamine.
Taking l-arginine in supplements can enhance blood flow and testosterone production, combat erectile dysfunction, diabetes, and low blood pressure, speed up recovery, boost heart and blood vessel health and functions, improve exercise and sexual performance, and make you more energetic.
Glutamine improves muscle growth, recovery, immunity, brain functions, and digestion.
Unfortunately, the doses of both these amino acids are far too low to produce any of these benefits here [24].
Fruit & Vegetable Blend – 62.5 MG
The Fruit & Vegetable blend is made from the extracts of numerous natural food sources rich in vitamins and minerals.
It has orange peel powder, spinach leaf powder, elderberry fruit powder, acai fruit powder, blueberry pomace powder, cranberry fruit powder, pomegranate fruit powder, broccoli powder, tomato powder, grape skin powder, carrot powder, papaya fruit powder, pineapple fruit powder, cauliflower powder, kale leaf powder, apple fruit powder, kiwi fruit powder, saw palmetto berry extract and pumpkin seed powder.
Unfortunately, while most of these are good for us and full of vitamins, many have not been proven in a lab test to be useful when powdered and put in multivitamins. Even those that are likely present in such small doses will be of no use, although we can’t tell for sure as they are in a proprietary blend.
Alpha Lipoic Acid – 25 MG
Alpha lipoic acid can enhance sugar metabolism, exercise performance, weight loss, reduced blood sugar levels, free radical activity, oxidative damage and stress, and inflammation, and combat diabetes. Still, it will do nothing in the low dosage seen here [25].
Inositol – 10 MG
Inositol may lower blood sugar and cholesterol levels, boost insulin sensitivity, weight loss, serotonin production, relaxation, sleep latency, and mood, and combat polycystic ovary syndrome, diabetes, and stress. Yet, it has not been proven that these benefits can be added to multivitamins [26].
Silica – 4 MG
Silica is hypothesized to improve the production, health, and functions of skin, blood, cartilage, eyes, muscles, and ligaments. Yet, no conclusive evidence exists that it can add these benefits to multivitamins [27].
Saw Palmetto Berry Extract – 3 MG
Saw palmetto berry extract is said to boost testosterone, suppress prostate growth, and combat existing prostate and urine flow issues. Still, it will do none of these when taken in multivitamins that use a low dose, as seen here [28].
Pumpkin Seed Powder – 3 MG
Pumpkin seed powder can improve bladder control, heart, prostate, and bladder health and functions, urinary flow, fertility, and sleep quality, and prevent or reduce nighttime urination, post-voiding residual urine volume, and select medical conditions, but it won’t when taken in the tiny doses seen here [29].
Boron – 2 MG
Boron enhances testosterone production and levels, blood flow, bone, brain, and testicle functions, and reduces inflammation and cholesterol, estrogen, and SHBG (sex hormone binding globulin) levels [30].
Lutein – 2 MG
Lutein can keep the eyes healthy, reduce inflammation, oxidative damage, and stress, and improve mental processing speeds, but not when taken in a dose as low as the one seen here [31].
Lycopene – 1 MG
Lycopene can help reduce inflammation and keep the prostate functioning correctly, but it will do nothing in the dosage seen here [32].
Zeaxanthin & Astaxanthin – 400 MCG & 50 MCG
Zeaxanthin and astaxanthin are isomers that come from the same sources as lutein. They can again produce the same results we saw above but will not be here due to the tiny dosages used [33][34].
Vanadium – 10 MCG
Vanadium can help reduce blood sugar levels and combat diabetes, but it will do nothing when taken in such a minuscule dose [35].
GNC Mega Men Multivitamin Price
| Multivitamin | One Time Purchase | Subscription |
|---|---|---|
| GNC Mega Men Multivitamin | $44.99 ($0.50 per serving) | $42.74 ($0.47 per serving) |
GNC Mega Men Multivitamin Benefits
Immune System Support
GNC Mega Men Multivitamin includes a potent vitamin and mineral blend that significantly supports the immune system.
Key components like Vitamin C, Vitamin D, and Zinc help fortify your body’s natural defenses, reducing the risk of infections and promoting overall health.
The time-released technology ensures a steady supply of these essential nutrients throughout the day, enhancing their effectiveness.
Energy Production
The multivitamin is designed to boost energy levels by providing essential B vitamins, such as B6 and B12, crucial for converting food into energy.
This helps reduce fatigue and increase vitality, making it ideal for those with busy lifestyles or who engage in regular physical activity.
Additionally, folic acid and biotin support metabolic processes that generate energy, keeping you active and alert.
Cardiovascular Health
GNC Mega Men Multivitamin supports heart health with ingredients like Vitamin B6, B12, and Folic Acid, which help lower homocysteine levels, a risk factor for heart disease.
Magnesium and calcium also help maintain healthy blood pressure levels and support overall cardiovascular function. Antioxidants such as Vitamin E further protect heart tissues from oxidative stress.
Prostate Health
The inclusion of ingredients like Selenium and Lycopene helps support prostate health, which is particularly important for aging men.
These nutrients have been shown to reduce the risk of prostate issues and support urinary function.
Saw palmetto extract is also included for its role in promoting prostate health and reducing symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
Mental Health and Cognitive Function
The multivitamin blend in GNC Mega Men is clinically proven to improve feelings of mental well-being and cognitive function.
B vitamins and antioxidants like Vitamin C and E help protect the brain from oxidative stress and support neurotransmitter function. This can lead to improved mood, focus, and overall cognitive health.
Muscle Function and Recovery
GNC Mega Men contains amino acids that fuel skeletal muscles, aiding in muscle cell repair and protein synthesis.
Electrolytes such as potassium and magnesium help prevent muscle cramping and support hydration, essential for muscle function and recovery, especially after exercise.
Who Is The GNC Mega Men Multivitamin For?
Active Men and Athletes
GNC Mega Men Multivitamin is particularly beneficial for active men and athletes who require additional nutritional support to maintain their energy levels, muscle function, and overall performance.
Including amino acids helps fuel skeletal muscles, enhancing muscle cell repair and protein synthesis, which is crucial for recovery and performance.
Electrolytes like potassium and magnesium help prevent muscle cramping and support hydration, which is essential during and after intense physical activity.
Men Over 40
As men age, their nutritional needs change, making it essential to supplement their diet with vitamins and minerals that support overall health and well-being.
GNC Mega Men Multivitamin is designed to address these needs by providing nutrients that support heart health, prostate health, and cognitive function.
Ingredients like Vitamin B6, B12, Folic Acid, and antioxidants such as Vitamin E help maintain cardiovascular health. Selenium and Lycopene support prostate health, reducing the risk of prostate issues common in older men.
Men with Busy Lifestyles
For men who lead busy lifestyles and may not always have the time to maintain a balanced diet, GNC Mega Men Multivitamin offers a convenient solution to fill nutritional gaps.
The comprehensive blend of 39 essential nutrients ensures the body receives the vitamins and minerals needed to function optimally.
This is particularly important for maintaining energy levels and overall health, helping busy professionals stay productive and focused throughout the day.
My Experience With The GNC Mega Men Multivitamin
I was immediately concerned after purchasing and receiving my bottle of GNC Mega Men.
This is due to the very high doses of most of the B vitamins the multivitamin contains and the long list of warnings listed in the small print at the bottom, which is quite unusual for multivitamins.
The includes cancer and reproductive harm warning, as well as the recommendation not to use the supplement for at least two weeks before surgery and to consult your physician before use if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have a medical condition.
As I am generally in good health and not on any medication, I decided to still add the vitamin supplement to my daily regimen for a month and see how things go, given how many people had ranked it 4 or 5 out of 5 stars. However, I wish I had gotten my vitamins from elsewhere.
While I did not experience significant side effects, my stomach did not feel right virtually the whole time I used the multivitamin.
Considering it did not appear to improve my health or wellness, I felt terrible for a month for no reason while wasting a fair bit of money.
Customers GNC Mega Multivitamin Reviews
GNC Mega Men holds an average review score of 4.5 out of 5 stars with previous customers who have made a verified purchase, which looks very good.
It is not always easy to draw conclusions when a supplement is only available for purchase on its own official website.
After digging a little deeper, it appears that almost all of the reviews that gave it 4 or 5 out of 5 stars are based on the large number of vitamins and minerals that the GNC supplement contains, as well as the added antioxidants and whole food extracts, rather than the effect it had on their health.
When studying the reviews that gave the multivitamin 1 or 2 out of 5 stars, things got even bleaker.
Not only did many men mention that they saw no noticeable improvement while taking GNC Mega Men, but a number also complained about both the taste and how much the multivitamin costs to purchase.
Some reviews that scored it 1 or 2 out of 5 stars even said the vitamin supplement caused them to experience side effects.
These included fatigue, body aches, stomach cramps, bloating, nerve issues, numbness and tingling in the extremities, hives, a temporary flushing reaction, and an upset stomach.
GNC Mega Multivitamin Alternatives
Prime Male T Vitamins
Prime Male T Vitamins is comfortably the best multivitamin for men over 40 today. From its diverse vitamin and mineral content and added nutrients to its high doses of all the vitamins and minerals and its ease of swallowing, it is superior to most other multivitamins in many ways.
Most past users have given it 5 out of 5 stars. It is especially useful for men who want to increase their vitamin intake to improve their testosterone levels or build lean muscle mass.
You can read more in my Prime Male review.
Optimum Nutrition Opti-Men
Opti Men, produced by Optimum Nutrition, is a multivitamin supplement designed for men.
It contains a broad spectrum of essential vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and herbal extracts to enhance overall health, particularly for active individuals.
Despite its promising formulation, my personal experience with Opti Men over 30 days was underwhelming.
While it initially seemed to boost energy levels, the high cost, inconsistent ingredient dosages, and lack of significant health benefits ultimately led to disappointment.
Additionally, many users have reported negative side effects and questioned the efficacy of several ingredients.
You can read my full Optimum Nutrition Opti Men review here.
MuscleTech Platinum Multivitamin
MuscleTech Platinum Multivitamin is fairly similar to GNC Mega Men in many ways, including its low price, the vitamins it contains, and its shortcomings.
However, while you may not score this multivitamin 5 out of 5 stars, its useful ingredients, like ginkgo biloba, and lack of risks compared to the GNC multivitamin make it a suitable alternative for people looking for budget multivitamins.
You can read my full MuscleTech Multivitamin review here.
Summary
GNC claims that Mega Men is the best mineral and vitamin supplement on the market today for most men and says it regularly scores 5 out of 5 stars with past users. However, after analyzing the multivitamin for ourselves, it is clearly not the potent best seller that they say it is for a number of reasons.
As a result, we suggest men looking for dedicated multivitamins purchase Prime Male T Vitamins instead. This multivitamin does everything GNC Mega Men claims to and more. It truly is a best seller that routinely scores 5 out of 5 stars and can fill the gaps left by any foods missing from your diet.
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