Men may face greater obstacles in losing weight due to a perception that dieting is a primarily feminine endeavor, according to a study conducted by Anglia Ruskin University and published in the journal Plos One. Researchers interviewed 24 men aged 30 and older about their experiences with weight loss programs, revealing that many associate dieting with restriction, sacrifice, and significant willpower, viewing it as a negative concept.
Participants reported a reluctance to engage with "dieting culture," with one noting that conversations in social settings like pubs rarely revolve around weight or appearance. The study suggests that avoiding the term 'diet' in weight loss initiatives and instead framing them as competitive might encourage male participation. The researchers noted that diets and dieting are often perceived negatively by men, associated with expected effort and potential failure, and seen as a "feminized space" with restrictive, generalized approaches.
In the UK, approximately 70% of men are classified as overweight or obese, compared to 62% of women, according to NHS data. The study found that men often view diets as short-term crash programs that are difficult to maintain, linking them to the denial of enjoyable foods and potentially leading to a resistant attitude towards weight loss efforts. "As soon as you mention the word diet everybody automatically thinks restriction, restriction, restriction," one participant stated, while another added, "When I'm looking at doing any kind of restrictions or dieting, a part of me kind of rebels against it."
Support from partners played a significant role in men's weight loss success. Participants indicated that changes orchestrated or supported by their partners, such as grocery choices or gentle encouragement, were highly effective. Motivations for weight loss varied, with body image and aesthetics cited as primary drivers, alongside health concerns like the fear of heart attacks. Scientists suggest that emphasizing competition, aesthetic goals, and early rewards could be more effective in engaging men in weight loss programs.
Previous research from the same university indicated that middle-aged men often consider weight gain an inevitable part of aging, attributing it to family and career responsibilities. This can lead to feelings of resignation, despondency, and low self-worth, with comfort eating identified as a significant factor. However, awareness of nutritional factors like food types and portion sizes appeared limited.
The study concluded that for sustainable lifestyle changes applicable to men, weight-loss initiatives should focus on simplicity, quick wins, early rewards, and a degree of social competitiveness centered on aesthetic gains. Initiatives designed for couples or involving a 'buddy' or mentor were also identified as beneficial.