Regardless of whether you are a man or a woman, you probably want to eat the healthiest foods and maintain your fit physique for as long as possible. However, a diet that works for one person may or may not work for another, especially when those people are of different genders.
Most people who are concerned about their physical fitness eventually ask whether or not there are different nutritional needs based on gender. So, what is the answer? Do women and men have separate dietary needs, or are they both relatively the same?
The Specs of the Female Form
The female body has quite a few unique nutritional needs, and some of them are nowhere near what a male counterpart would require. For example, the average woman needs to make up for lost nutrients during menstruation. On top of that, a female needs a bit more fat per pound to keep her bodies working properly. If a female eats the same type of diet as a man, she could not only lose her feminine appeal but she could also begin to suffer from hormonal imbalances, among other things.
The Workings of the Male Body
When you break it down, you will see how true it is that there are different nutritional needs based on gender. In stark contrast to the female, the average male usually needs some sort of high-protein diet to make up for his own bodily functions. On top of that, men typically need help building and maintain muscle mass through nutrient supplementation. To eat like a female may be healthy enough, but it definitely won’t give you that rugged and chiseled look you want.
The Importance of a Customized Diet
Figuring out what kind of diet is right for you has a lot to do with your own personal nutritional needs, but there must still be some consideration of the different gender specifications. Not all people are created equally, and some dietary plans might resemble one another despite the gender differential. However, using your own good judgment when it comes to what you eat is your best bet.
Speak with your healthcare professional or with a certified nutritionist if you have specific questions regarding nutritional needs based on gender. Structuring a diet based solely on your personal tastes or on your gender will not get you the body you want. It is only when you find balance that you can truly call yourself a healthy man or woman.