Men and women have different nutritional needs

The 2006 September issue of Harvard Men’s Health Watch reports that regarding optimal nutrition, there are some differences in men and women's considerations. Despite of the fact men and women have more similar needs than different, the distinctions are very subtle and they may influence the man health.

Here are some of the differences reported by Harvard Men’s Health Watch:

1. Fat. Monosaturated fats, especially found in olive oil, have a positive influence for both women and men's health. The same god influence for both sexes have the omega-3 fatty acids they may found in fish. On the other hand, the report claims that the vegetable-based omega-3 acid, known as alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), could be a problem for men. While ALA is good for the heart functioning, some studies suggest it may rise the risk of prostate cancer. ALA may be a positive nutritional option for men having heart risk, but men having concerns related to prostate cancer should get omega-3 acids from olive oil and fish.

2. Calcium. Women should prefer a high-calcium diet to protect them against osteoporosis, but large amounts of calcium may increase men's risk of prostate cancer. Then, the solution for male population is moderation and the possible calcium deficiencies may be covered by vitamin D in a daily multivitamin intake.

3. Iron. Men should avoid excess iron as they need less than women.

4. Alcohol. It is generally accepted that larger amounts of alcohol are the origin of many ills. Regarding low alcohol intake, studies found that it seems to reduce the risk of certain heart strokes in both men and women. General opinion is that drinking responsibly cannot induce any harms for average men, while even low doses of alcohol may rise the incidence of breast cancer in women.








Attention: The Information on this site is provided for information only, and is not meant to substitute for the advice or help of your own physician or other medical professional.



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