You notice that summer is rolling around the corner, and you want to lose a few pounds with your partner. A month later, he’s already seeing outstanding results and you have barely scratched the surface of your weight loss. Why does it feel like men can do a hop skip and lose weight effortlessly? Although, it seems like women have a more difficult time losing body fat. According to a study conducted by the Journal of Pharmacology and Therapeutics for Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism, men and women were given the same mode of exercise and diet, and the men lost 16 percent more than the women. There are a few factors that come into play that explain the different rates at which women and men lose weight. Here are 4 reasons why it’s harder for women to lose weight:
Metabolism
Mainly, it’s our physiology. Our metabolic rates differ showing that we are simply not built the same way. Men have a higher metabolic rate making it easier for them to burn fat significantly quicker. According to Healthline, the more muscle mass you have, the more calories your body burns. Men need to consume more calories each day to reach their resting metabolic rate. Women that have more lean muscle mass also have a faster metabolism, making weight loss more attainable.
Post-pregnancy
The weight acquired over the duration of a 9 month pregnancy affects women and their ability to lose weight. Along with that weight-gain comes with a contract of new body fat. It’s important for women to consume foods and perform exercises that will increase their metabolism after pregnancy.
Hormonal Disorders
Disorders such as PCOS affect the rate at which women lose weight. Unfortunately, hormonal syndromes with insulin resistance and inflammation can make women feel like losing weight is hopeless. Although, just because it’s more difficult doesn’t mean it’s impossible. Women with hormonal health issues that want to lose weight should focus on protein, fiber and healthy fats and avoid added sugars to reduce inflammation.
Trendy Diets
If you find that each year you are following a new trendy diet, you will find it harder to lose weight. When women aren’t consistent with their nutrition, they might lose 20 lbs with Keto or some other fad diet, and then gain it all back plus more. This slows the weight loss process and creates low morale within the individual. Stick to a solid nutritional guide that allows you to eat some of the foods you like to avoid taking 10 steps back with each dietary set back.
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