Q
QUERCETIN
Health Defender
This plant compound blocks the hormones that cause prostate-cancer cells to grow, according to Mayo Foundation research. Also, drinking quercetin-rich black tea daily reduces heart-attack risk.
Best dosage for men: Stick to natural sources until more research is completed.
Natural sources: Apples, onions, black tea, red wine
Interactions: Alters many antibiotics.
R
RIBOFLAVIN
Headache Helper
Riboflavin, or vitamin B2, helps with oxygen absorption and the production of red blood cells. A Belgian study also found that high doses reduce the length and frequency of migraines.
Best dosage for men: 1.3 mg daily; 400 mg for migraines
Natural sources: Dairy products
S
ST. JOHN'S WORT
Mood Lifter?
Research has wilted this plant's ability to stack up against prescription depression drugs. And in light of its interactions with numerous medications, the wort simply has too many warts.
SAM-E
Mind/Body Healer
SAM-e may keep you on your feet physically and emotionally. Researchers found that this amino acid compound can reduce the pain of osteoarthritis as effectively as NSAIDs, while a Harvard study indicates it reduces depression. And in Europe, it's used to treat liver disease.
Best dosage for men: Up to 1,200 mg, but start low (200 mg daily) and increase the dosage over a few days. Also take a B-complex vitamin to avoid a homocysteine buildup.
SAW PALMETTO
Flow Controller
It's a miracle plant for men suffering from benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). A German study reported that saw palmetto was as effective as the prescription drug Finasteride at reducing symptoms of BPH, such as painful urination, and had fewer side effects.
Best dosage for men: 320 mg standardized extract daily
SELENIUM
Free-Radical Fighter
Selenium is like kryptonite to cancer. Harvard researchers found that men with the highest levels of this mineral had a 48 percent lower risk of advanced prostate cancer. It may also ward off lung cancer.
Best dosage for men: 200 mcg from selenium yeast daily
Natural sources: Brazil nuts, meat
Interactions: May reduce the effectiveness of statins; high doses decrease vitamin C absorption.
» Health archive
Men's Health Philippines - May 2005 Issue
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[St. John's Wort] Worry Wort
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