Is Weight Loss Really Easier for Men? Do our male counterparts have an easier time with weight loss? This is a question that many women have asked over the years as they see their husbands and male friends easily shed pounds while they struggle to even maintain their weight. We looked at studies and articles that dealt with the issue, and have made some fascinating realizations. Men and women are very different when it comes to weight loss – and weight gain!
Food Preferences
Men and women like different foods, and that had much to do with the type of weight they gain and how quickly they can lose it. Katherine Tallmadge, RD, the author of Diet Simple says that “Men love their meat, and women are attached to carbohydrates.” This doesn’t inherently make men more likely to stay fit, but meat generally contains more protein. This means that when a man starts exercising, he may build muscle more quickly and effectively. Carbs are burned quickly during a cardio work-out or a marathon, but they do not convert into muscle like protein does.
Tallmadge says that extremes of both of these preferences lead to excessive weight gain and poor health. She says that both groups should seek healthy alternatives. For men, she frequently recommends lean meats such as turkey rather than rare steaks. For women, she replaces starches with grains.
Additionally, men tend to be less informed about calories and fat content. As soon as the men start paying attention to healthier food choices, they tend to get quick results.
Physical Differences
In short, men are larger and have more muscle than women due to the hormone called testosterone. They are genetically designed to have a higher percentage of muscle and less fat. Muscle burns calories, so they can typically consume more calories than a woman can and not see as many negative consequences. This is a disadvantage that can surely be overcome. The key is to build muscle and exercise regularly.
One advantage in terms of weight loss is that women tend to put on weight on the hips and thighs, while men put on weight in their middle area. The “pear” shape is much healthier for cardio health.
What’s for dinner?
Women, in general, tend to spend more time in the kitchen than men do. They plan meals, menus, do grocery shopping, and food preparation. All that exposure to food is sure to lead to nibbling and tasting, the kind of snacking that nutritionists advise us to avoid. If this seems to be a problem, try to equalize the workload and minimize the temptations by getting your husband and/or the kids involved in preparing quick and healthy meals. They will all benefit, and so will you.
Positive attitude.
Many men are simply problem solvers. When they see that their weight has gotten out of hand, they cut back. They go for a run. They solve the problem. Women tend to take it personally, letting their self-worth get tied up in both their weight gain and weight loss. We suggest getting the support you need, celebrating the little victories, and staying positive. For some, weight loss is a long process. But it’s worth it when you feel healthy and look your best.