When it comes to losing weight, are men from Mars and women from Venus? Unfairly, the odds appear to be firmly stacked against the fairer sex. It seems as if women can just look at a decadent dessert and feel the hips widening, while all men have to do is to cut back the portions a little and watch the numbers on the scale drop!

Here’s what’s at play:

• Men have more muscle. The more muscle you have, the greater your calorie burn. Not only are men’s bodies generally bigger, they tend to carry more muscle than women.
• Men’s bodies respond quicker to exercise because of greater muscle mass. Women’s bodies go into starvation mode, slowing the metabolism to hang on to more fat.
• Women are predisposed to store and retain fat. Women have higher levels of oestrogen, a hormone that increases the storage of body fat.
• Women may have lower tolerance for exercise. Women have smaller lung capacity than men, which can make women feel as though they are working harder than men, even if the level of work out is the same.
• Emotions play a big role. Men tend to find out how an eating plan works and then just get on with it. Women are more likely to get distracted by life’s events, sometimes sabotaging their slimming plan.

Tips for women to lose weight fast:

• Weight train and do aerobics. This will help to build or preserve muscle mass and speed up metabolism.
• Keep a food record. Because a woman’s caloric needs tend to be less than most men, every bite you eat counts. A food record will help you keep track of what you’re eating.
• Make taking care of yourself a priority. Get enough sleep, exercise regularly, plan healthy meals and snacks, and don’t go too long without eating.
• Don’t become frustrated on your path to lose weight. Keep in mind that slow and steady wins the race!

Tips for men to lose weight fast:

• Always eat a decent sized breakfast – you want some protein and fat. Scrambled eggs and sausage is one option that will keep you fuller for longer.
• Eat more! We’re talking three healthy meals and three good snacks. Leave the chip and dip and go for nuts, especially almonds. They will satisfy your craving and build muscle.
• No to starches. Food like pasta, white bread and potatoes can pack on the pounds. Try sweet potato fries - you'll never look back!
• Lift weights. Yes, you have to hit the gym. Muscle building will stoke your metabolism, burning calories long after your work out is over.
• Choose good fats – they makes you feel full and help to control your appetite.
• Never drink sweetened or fizzy drinks. Water is still the best bet and if you need to make it more interesting, try adding fruit pieces or lemon slices.
• Have fun once in a while. If you stifle those cravings for too long, you’ll be miserable. Two slices of pizza, not the whole thing!

By now you should understand why it seems as if men lose weight faster. Men and women burn calories in different ways but if you follow our tips on losing weight, you can be living a healthier happier life in no time at all.

Want to know why opposites seem to attract? Why the messiest person always ends up with a neat freak? Find out more here.

DISCLAIMER: The information on this website is for educational purposes only, and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you are experiencing symptoms or need health advice, please consult a healthcare professional.