10 Men's Health Books That Will Change How You Care for Yourself

Discover trusted insights from experts like Dinesh D'Souza, Ben Greenfield, and Jared DeFife in these top Men's Health books.

Dinesh D'souza
Ben Greenfield
Updated on June 23, 2025
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What if you could unlock a healthier version of yourself with guidance from those who've mastered men's health? Men often face unique health challenges that go unnoticed until they become urgent. From prostate concerns to mental wellness and muscle building, the landscape is complex and ever-changing.

Experts like Dr. Patrick Walsh, a pioneering urologist at Johns Hopkins, Ryan Howes, a clinical psychologist specializing in men's mental health, and fitness authority Michael Matthews have shaped powerful resources that cut through confusion. For instance, Walsh's guide demystifies prostate cancer with clarity and compassion, while Howes offers creative mental health journaling tailored for men.

While these expert-curated books provide proven frameworks, readers seeking content tailored to their specific health goals, lifestyle, or experience might consider creating a personalized Men's Health book that builds on these insights. Personalized approaches can bridge the gap between general advice and your unique journey.

Best for men facing prostate cancer diagnosis
Publisher's Weekly, an authority in book reviews, highlights how this guide by Johns Hopkins urology professor Dr. Patrick Walsh and medical writer Janet Worthington demystifies prostate cancer. They emphasize the detailed coverage from prostate function to genetics, diet, and diagnosis, noting its reassurance amid the often frightening diagnosis. Their recommendation underscores the book's comprehensive nature, useful for anyone confronting this disease. This perspective is echoed by Booklist, which praises the collaborative expertise and accessible structure, recognizing the book as essential given rising diagnoses and treatment advances. Together, these expert views frame the book as a vital resource for men and those who care about them.

Recommended by Publisher's Weekly

Walsh, professor of urology at Johns Hopkins University, and Worthington, a medical writer, offer a thorough guide to one of the most frightening diseases for men. Starting with an explanation of how the prostate works surprisingly, it's not an essential organ. Walsh then discusses why prostate cancer is prevalent in the U.S. and other developed Western countries, but not in Asia. He also details the reasons men develop prostate cancer, including age, race, family history, and diet. The book describes a variety of symptoms, some of which indicate ailments other than cancer, and what steps should be taken to get a proper diagnosis. Complete with diagrams and charts detailing biopsy results, the book provides an exceptionally complete overview of the disease. Many of these details, like not taking aspirin prior to a biopsy or taking antibiotics ahead of time, should be routine information doctors provide, but having it in this guide is reassuring. Similarly comprehensive explanations are provided for treatments, side effects, postsurgical complications, and more, along with a glossary and resource section. While not a substitute for medical check-ups, this is one of the best all-inclusive books on the subject. All men and loved ones concerned about prostate cancer should read it.

Dr. Patrick Walsh's Guide to Surviving Prostate Cancer book cover

by Patrick C. Walsh MD MD, Janet Farrar Worthington, Edward M Schaeffer MD PhD··You?

What if everything you knew about prostate cancer treatment was incomplete? Dr. Patrick Walsh, a leading urologist at Johns Hopkins, alongside medical writer Janet Worthington, unpacks the complexity of prostate cancer with meticulous detail in this extensively revised guide. You learn not only about the biological and genetic factors influencing the disease but also practical considerations like diagnostic tests, lifestyle changes, and managing post-treatment health. Chapters break down topics such as genetic testing, risk factors for African American men, and support tailored for transgender individuals with prostates. If you're facing prostate cancer or supporting someone who is, this book provides a thorough and accessible understanding of navigating the disease's many facets.

Published by Balance
5th Edition Release
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Best for men improving mental wellness
Jared DeFife, a clinical psychologist and advocate for adult ADHD, highlights the brain's complexity as "the world’s most complex supercomputer" that comes without a manual. After years of working with men struggling to navigate their mental health, he found Ryan Howes's journal a refreshing, humorous guide that turns introspection into a "gut checking, butt-kicking, eureka-moment generator." Jared appreciates how this journal moves mental wellness from abstract to practical, helping men build clarity and confidence starting from page one. Mental health advocate Therese Borchard also praises Howes's blend of research, creativity, and relatable storytelling, calling it a roadmap for any man wanting to better understand and manage his mental state with ease.

Recommended by Jared DeFife

Clinical Psychologist and Adult ADHD Advocate

Listen up guys: that single square foot of real estate between your ears is home to the world’s most complex supercomputer. The problem is, it doesn’t exactly come with a handy user manual (but who has time for instructions anyway, right?). So grab your favorite Montblanc, colored pencil, Sharpie, or Space Pen and let Ryan Howes be your humorous, wise, and encouraging guide on this inner journey. Use this journal as a gut checking, butt-kicking, eureka-moment generator as you connect the dots toward greater clarity, confidence, and creativity. The work of building a better YOU moves from the inside out, and your first step starts on page 1. Let’s hear you say ‘challenge accepted!’

2020·172 pages·Mental Health, Health, Men's Health, Journaling, Stress Management

What if everything you knew about journaling for mental health was wrong? Ryan Howes, a clinical psychologist and cofounder of The Mental Health Boot Camp, developed this journal specifically for men to tackle the unique pressures they face with emotional expression and self-care. You’ll find creative prompts like designing a movie poster of your life or mapping your stress triggers, which break away from traditional journaling routines and invite you to explore feelings beyond numbness or anger. This book is designed less for therapists and more for men willing to engage with their mental landscape in an approachable, often humorous way. If you’re looking to build mental clarity and confidence through practical reflection, this journal offers a refreshing and candid path forward.

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Best for tailored men's health plans
This AI-created book on men's health is written based on your background, current health status, and specific goals. You share which aspects of men's health you want to focus on—from fitness and nutrition to mental wellness and prostate care. The book is then created to fit your unique context, providing targeted strategies rather than generic advice. That way, you get a personalized guide that speaks directly to your health journey.
2025·50-300 pages·Men's Health, Physical Fitness, Nutrition, Mental Wellness, Hormonal Balance

This personalized men's health book provides a tailored approach covering key areas including physical fitness, nutrition, mental wellness, hormonal balance, and disease prevention. It offers practical strategies designed to fit your unique health profile, lifestyle, and goals, cutting through generalized advice to focus on what matters most for you. By integrating personalized assessments and actionable recommendations, it addresses common men’s health challenges such as prostate care, muscle maintenance, stress management, and cardiovascular health. The book’s tailored framework helps you build a sustainable health plan that aligns with your specific needs, optimizing lifelong wellness with evidence-informed guidance.

Tailored Blueprint
Hormonal Optimization
1,000+ Happy Readers
Best for holistic prostate health seekers
William Sears, author of The Baby Book, brings a trusted voice to men's health with his endorsement of Healing the Prostate. After witnessing the impact of prostate conditions on many men around him, Sears emphasizes this book as "every man’s must-read," highlighting its value not just for men but also for women concerned about the men in their lives. He praises the book's science-based, holistic plan that supports prostate and overall organ health, reflecting how it changed his perspective on preventative care. Alongside him, Ross Pelton, known as The Natural Pharmacist, also endorses the book for providing a thorough overview of both conventional and holistic treatments, reinforcing its educational strength.

Recommended by William Sears

Author of The Baby Book

Healing the Prostate is every man’s must-read. It’s also a riveting book for women concerned about the health of the men in their lives too. Many men eventually need their prostate radiated, medicated, or operated on for various conditions, many of which could have been partially prevented. As an added perk, the science-based self-help tools in this healthy prostate plan will help keep many other organs healthy. I highly recommend this book!

Unlike most men's health books that focus solely on conventional treatments, Dr. Mark Stengler brings over 25 years of naturopathic expertise to present a holistic approach to prostate health. You’ll explore integrative methods addressing benign prostatic hyperplasia, prostate cancer, prostatitis, and hormone balance, along with bladder function insights rarely covered in similar titles. The book details how combining conventional and natural therapies can reduce risks and side effects, with chapters dedicated to diagnosis, treatment options, and lifestyle strategies. If you're seeking a broad yet focused guide to maintaining prostate functionality beyond standard medicine, this book offers clear, science-backed guidance without unnecessary jargon.

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Best for men wanting tasty healthy eating
Andie Mitchell, bestselling author and healthy lifestyle blogger, found that Serena Wolf's approach in The Dude Diet challenged her assumptions about "healthy eating" for men. After seeing how the recipes retain crave-worthy flavors without empty calories, she remarked, "With The Dude Diet, Serena Wolf proves that being nutritionally conscious doesn’t mean giving up delicious, crave-worthy comfort food." This book helped her embrace nutrition without sacrificing enjoyment. Similarly, Daphne Oz, award-winning television host, appreciates how the book respects cravings while promoting better choices, showing you don’t have to give up indulgence to feel good.

Recommended by Andie Mitchell

Bestselling author and healthy lifestyle blogger

With The Dude Diet, Serena Wolf proves that being nutritionally conscious doesn’t mean giving up delicious, crave-worthy comfort food.

2016·352 pages·Food, Men's Health, Nutrition, Healthy Cooking, Comfort Food

Unlike most men's health cookbooks that push strict, joyless diets, Serena Wolf brings a refreshing blend of delicious comfort food and nutrition savvy. Drawing from her culinary training at Le Cordon Bleu Paris and experience as a private chef, she crafts over 125 recipes that cleverly transform indulgent favorites—like Philly cheesesteaks and nachos—into cleaner, nutrient-rich versions. You’ll also learn to decode basic nutrition principles that empower smarter food choices, whether dining out or cooking at home. This book suits anyone tired of bland "health food" but eager to improve diet without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.

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Best for men needing practical health guidance
Dinesh D'Souza, an author and filmmaker with a broad platform, found himself prompted to consult a urologist after reading this guide, saying, "Thanks Dr. David Samadi. Great book! Now I’m being dispatched to a urologist to check my you-know-what. Thanks a LOT!" His candid reaction highlights how the book can spark immediate self-awareness and action. Samadi’s extensive experience as a prostate surgeon and men's health expert underpins the practical advice, making this book a credible resource for men ready to confront their health head-on. Christopher Ruddy, CEO of Newsmax Media, also points to Dr. Samadi’s unmatched knowledge in men’s health, reinforcing the book’s value for men and their partners alike.
DD

Recommended by Dinesh D'Souza

Author and Filmmaker

Thanks Dr. David Samadi. Great book! Now I’m being dispatched to a urologist to check my you-know-what. Thanks a LOT! (from X)

2020·256 pages·Men's Health, Healthy Living, Health, Sexual Health, Urology

What if everything you knew about men's health was wrong? Dr. David Samadi, a world-renowned urologist and prostate cancer surgeon, challenges common neglect men show toward their health and offers a detailed look at how men can reclaim their well-being. You’ll find concrete guidance on improving sexual function, managing urinary health, and optimizing nutrition tailored specifically for men’s needs. The book even includes a two-week meal plan and recipes designed to support male health. If you're looking to take control of your health with expert-backed, straightforward advice, this book offers insights that go beyond typical wellness advice but might be too focused for those seeking general health books.

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Best for rapid health gains
This AI-created book on men's wellness is crafted based on your specific health background and goals. By sharing your current lifestyle, skill level, and the exact areas you want to improve, you receive a custom guide focused on daily actions that matter most to you. Personalization matters here because men's health is multifaceted and highly individual, so this book delivers the precise steps you need to jumpstart your wellness journey effectively.
2025·50-300 pages·Men's Health, Daily Actions, Nutrition Plans, Exercise Routines, Stress Management

This personalized book offers a tailored approach to men's health by focusing on actionable daily practices designed for rapid wellness improvements. It provides a step-by-step guide that aligns with your unique background and goals, cutting through generic advice to deliver relevant strategies for enhancing vitality, fitness, nutrition, and mental well-being. By emphasizing quick, practical interventions across nutrition, exercise, stress management, and recovery, this book creates a personalized framework that fits your specific context. It addresses common male health challenges with targeted routines that can yield noticeable benefits within 30 days, blending foundational concepts with focused daily actions for sustainable health gains.

Personalized Framework
Daily Action Blueprint
3,000+ Books Created
Best for aging men managing health
Michael Osterholm, Regents Professor and McKnight Presidential Endowed Chair in Public Health at the University of Minnesota, highlights the importance of this book for men's health. After years of watching aging colleagues struggle to find straightforward advice, he says, "I wish someone had written this amazing book 15 years ago and had made it required reading." This honest yet humorous guide helped him see his own aging journey with clarity and confidence. Alongside him, Jed Diamond, an author specializing in men's wellness, praises its blend of humor and practical knowledge, calling it a "unique lifeline for aging well."

Recommended by Michael Osterholm

Regents Professor, Public Health University of Minnesota

I wish someone had written this amazing book 15 years ago and had made it required reading. I could not put Man Overboard! down. This book was written for me and all the other aging men by a wise and brilliant physician who I have come to trust due to his factual and humorous approach to coaching me through my aging health journey. This book provides a roadmap for all of us who have ignored the reality of growing old and what that means for us, our families, our friends, colleagues and even our healthcare team.

2022·300 pages·Men's Health, Aging, Geriatrics, Health, Exercise

When Dr. Craig Bowron, a practicing internist and medical educator, developed this book, he aimed to cut through the noise surrounding men's health with straightforward, engaging guidance. You’ll learn to navigate aging with clear explanations on topics like andropause, heart disease risks, exercise routines dubbed “sexercise,” and even managing thinning hair, all delivered with a dose of humor that makes the material approachable. This book suits men keen to understand their bodies better and take control of their health without jargon or overwhelm, as well as partners who want insight into the male aging journey. For example, chapters such as “Cuckoo for Cocoa Puffs” dive into nutrition myths, while “Move It or Lose It” encourages practical fitness strategies.

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Best for men building muscle and losing fat
Ben Greenfield, an athlete and CEO of Kion known for his expertise in health and longevity, praises this book for cutting through the confusion surrounding fitness and nutrition. After years of navigating conflicting advice, he found Matthews’ blend of practical experience and scientific research refreshing, stating, "Nobody cuts through the fitness and nutrition confusion and clutter like Mike Matthews. And in Bigger Leaner Stronger, he draws on a powerful combination of time in the trenches and hard-core research to give you the straight talk about what actually works." This endorsement highlights how the book helped Greenfield clarify his approach to building strength and muscle. Similarly, James Clear, an author focused on habits and decision-making, calls it "a highly actionable book" that provides clarity amid noise, underscoring the book’s appeal to those seeking straightforward, effective fitness strategies.
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Recommended by Ben Greenfield

Athlete and CEO of Kion

Nobody cuts through the fitness and nutrition confusion and clutter like Mike Matthews. And in Bigger Leaner Stronger, he draws on a powerful combination of time in the trenches and hard-core research to give you the straight talk about what actually works. This book is easy to read and incredibly effective. I highly recommend.

2019·457 pages·Men's Health, Exercise, Strength Training, Muscle Building, Fat Loss

Unlike most fitness books that lean heavily on trendy diets or exhaustive gym routines, Michael Matthews cuts through the noise to lay out a straightforward science-based approach to building muscle and losing fat. You’ll learn why obsessing over "clean eating" and endless cardio isn’t necessary, and instead discover how to use resistance training and smart nutrition to gain 25 to 35 pounds of lean muscle efficiently. The book offers detailed workout plans and debunks common myths, such as the need for "muscle confusion" or punishing workouts. If you want a realistic plan that fits into a busy lifestyle and avoids gimmicks, this book is for you.

International Bestseller
4th Edition Released
600,000+ Copies Sold
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Best for men seeking sexual health clarity
Jason Jameson, a urologist and men’s health specialist, highlights how Dr. Aaron Spitz’s expertise shines through in this book, calling it "a valuable resource to patients and providers alike." He appreciates how the book offers contemporary insight into penile health as a marker of overall health, helping men understand their bodies better and fostering improved relationships with women. This perspective aligns with Spitz’s role as a leading men’s health expert featured on The Doctors TV show. Robert Brannigan, professor of urology at Northwestern University, praises the book's clarity and humor, noting its broad appeal to both male and female readers seeking straightforward knowledge about male health.

Recommended by Jason Jameson

Urologist and men's health specialist

Dr. Spitz’s The Penis Book is a valuable resource to patients and providers alike, providing important contemporary insight to penile health as a marker of overall health and other men’s health issues in 2018. Men who read this book will have a new sense of understanding of their body, and women who read the book will appreciate the frank, open discussion of this often misunderstood male anatomy, leading to overall better relations between men and women. As he does on The Doctors show on TV, Dr. Spitz offers straightforward explanations of various male issues and has become one of the leading men’s health experts in America.

What if everything you thought about penile health was incomplete? Dr. Aaron Spitz, drawing on 15 years as assistant clinical professor at UC Irvine's Department of Urology and his media experience, confronts widespread myths and provides concrete understanding about the penis, from blood flow science to STI prevention. You’ll find a holistic five-step plan emphasizing plant-based nutrition and targeted exercises that promotes overall sexual wellness. The book is especially useful if you want clear, medically informed insights without euphemisms, whether you’re a man seeking to understand your body better or a partner wanting to support sexual health. For example, the chapter on pornography explores its physiological and psychological effects with nuance rarely seen elsewhere.

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Best for fat loss via strength training
Dr. Ellington Darden, PhD, is an exercise researcher and author of over fifty books, including The New High-Intensity Training and The Bowflex Body Plan. Named one of the top ten health leaders by the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition, he drew on decades of research to develop the 30-10-30 method outlined here. His expertise offers you a muscle-based approach to fat loss, emphasizing metabolism and strength rather than just dieting, making this book a solid guide for men aiming to lose stubborn fat and improve fitness.
2019·320 pages·Men's Health, Fitness, Weight Loss, Strength Training, Muscle Growth

Unlike most men's health books that focus solely on diet or cardio, this one zeroes in on muscle growth as the key to fat loss. Dr. Ellington Darden, with decades of experience and over fifty fitness titles, shares his 30-10-30 strength training method to build muscle and boost metabolism effectively. You learn how to use thermodynamics principles to burn stubborn belly fat, complemented by superhydration and tailored meal plans. This book suits anyone serious about fat loss through scientifically backed strength training rather than quick fixes or fad diets.

Author of 50+ fitness books
Named top ten health leader by President’s Council
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Best for men wanting balanced wellness
Jesse Mills MD, a specialist in men's health with decades of experience and leadership roles at UCLA and Colorado, wrote this book drawing directly from his clinical practice focused exclusively on men. His expertise as a consultant to major sports teams and a prolific medical educator informs the practical, no-frills guide presented here. This book aims to empower you with medically sound, actionable advice on everything from diet to sexual health, reflecting Dr. Mills' mission to help men take control of their health without complicated or fad-driven plans.
2022·256 pages·Men's Health, Health, Nutrition, Exercise, Cardiovascular Health

Unlike most men's health books that focus narrowly on fitness or nutrition, this guide by Dr. Jesse Mills draws from his extensive clinical experience treating over 3,000 men annually to present a balanced approach to lifelong wellness. You learn concrete strategies for maintaining cardiovascular health, optimizing diet with a clear macronutrient formula, and tailoring exercise by decade, alongside candid guidance on sexual health and managing stress. The book’s chapters on sleep hygiene and vitamin D highlight often-overlooked pillars of health, making it a holistic manual rather than a fragmented advice collection. If you want straightforward, medically grounded advice that covers the full spectrum of men’s health concerns, this book fits the bill.

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Conclusion

The 10 books here emphasize three clear themes: understanding your body's unique health needs, integrating mental and physical wellness, and adopting practical, science-backed strategies. If you face prostate health concerns, start with Dr. Walsh's guide and Healing the Prostate for holistic insights. For mental clarity and emotional resilience, Ryan Howes's journal offers approachable tools. Meanwhile, fitness-focused men will find actionable plans in Bigger Leaner Stronger and Men's Health Killing Fat.

For rapid implementation, combining The Ultimate MANual with The Dude Diet can help you shape daily habits that support long-term vitality. Aging men seeking humor-infused guidance should turn to Man Overboard!, while those wanting a candid sexual health resource will benefit from The Penis Book.

Once you've absorbed these expert insights, create a personalized Men's Health book to bridge the gap between general principles and your specific situation. Taking charge of your health starts with the right knowledge, and these books provide a solid foundation to do just that.

Frequently Asked Questions

I'm overwhelmed by choice – which book should I start with?

Start with a book that matches your immediate concern. Facing prostate issues? Begin with Dr. Walsh's guide. If mental wellness tops your list, try the Mental Health Journal for Men. For fitness goals, Bigger Leaner Stronger offers clear steps. Tailoring your read to your needs makes the journey manageable.

Are these books too advanced for someone new to Men's Health?

Not at all. Many books, like The Dude Diet and Man Overboard!, use approachable language and practical advice. They’re designed to guide beginners through complex topics with clarity and humor, making health knowledge accessible regardless of your starting point.

What's the best order to read these books?

Consider your priorities first. You might start with foundational wellness in A Field Guide to Men's Health, then explore specific areas like mental health or prostate care. Mixing a practical guide with a fitness or nutrition book keeps your progress balanced and engaging.

Do I really need to read all of these, or can I just pick one?

You can absolutely pick the book that fits your current focus. Each offers valuable insights on its own. However, combining a few—for example, one on physical health and another on mental wellness—can provide a more holistic approach.

Which books focus more on theory vs. practical application?

Books like The Ultimate MANual and Healing the Prostate blend medical theory with actionable advice, while Bigger Leaner Stronger and Men’s Health Killing Fat lean heavily into practical workouts and meal plans. The Mental Health Journal for Men emphasizes hands-on exercises and reflection.

How can a personalized Men's Health book complement these expert recommendations?

Personalized books build on expert foundations by tailoring advice to your unique background, goals, and challenges. They help apply general principles in ways that fit your lifestyle perfectly, making your health journey more effective. Learn more by creating your own tailored Men's Health book.

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