A recent study has revealed significant gender-based differences in the effectiveness of the ketogenic diet (KD) for weight loss, with men achieving better results than women despite following identical protocols. In a 45-day clinical trial, men lost an average of 11.63% of their body weight, compared to just 8.95% in women.
اضافة اعلان
The ketogenic diet, which is based on reducing carbohydrate intake and increasing fat consumption, triggers a metabolic state called ketosis, where the body uses ketones instead of glucose for energy—promoting fat burning and weight loss. However, the study showed that men’s response to ketosis tends to be more efficient, due to several factors including hormonal differences, body fat distribution, gut function, and energy metabolism.
Findings suggest that testosterone in men enhances fat breakdown (lipolysis), while estrogen in women may slow the process. Additionally, hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle can impact women’s response to ketosis, affecting appetite and energy-regulating hormones.
Animal studies reinforced these observations: male mice experienced weight loss and improved insulin sensitivity on a ketogenic diet, while female mice showed adverse outcomes—unless their estrogen levels were reduced.
The study suggests that these differences are the result of a complex interplay between genetics, hormones, gut microbiota, and brain mechanisms that regulate appetite and energy. It highlights the importance of adopting personalized dietary approaches based on gender, age, and hormonal status for more effective obesity treatment.
Source: Frontiers in Nutrition
