The Word “Diet” May Put Men Off: Study Suggests Easier Ways for Them to Lose Weight

Men who are overweight may be more likely to view dieting as overly restrictive and associate it primarily with women, according to a study published in PLOS One.

Researchers interviewed 24 men over the age of 30 who were overweight or living with obesity and had either previously taken part in weight-loss programs or were planning to lose weight.

Participants said they commonly associated dieting with giving up their favorite foods and having to constantly monitor what they ate. Many felt that losing weight required an excessive amount of willpower and that even a minor setback could cause them to abandon their efforts altogether.

Another barrier was the perception of dieting as a “women’s activity.” Some participants believed that women tend to place greater emphasis on body size and appearance, making traditional approaches to weight loss less appealing to men.

However, the researchers identified several strategies that could make weight-loss programs more attractive to men. Short-term, clearly defined goals, visible results and elements of competition appeared to be particularly motivating. Physical challenges focused on strength or endurance could also help encourage participation.

Support from family members and partners was another important factor. Participants said their partners helped them stick to healthier eating habits, bought healthier foods and limited the availability of snacks at home. Friends and mentors could also provide valuable encouragement and accountability throughout the weight-loss process.

The researchers suggest moving away from the word “diet” and instead presenting weight loss as a positive personal challenge. Programs designed for couples or those that actively involve a partner may be especially promising, they say.

The authors caution, however, that the conclusions are based on a small group of participants. Larger studies involving more diverse groups of men will be needed to determine whether these findings apply more broadly.

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