Battle of the Sexes: How Foods Affect Women & Men Differently

The sexes are far more different than just the obvious anatomical differences. What's good for a man may not necessarily be good for a woman.

In general, women need fewer calories than men because of the differences in body structures. This also means that women and men need different types of foods and nutrients.

What foods should women be eating?

Women generally need foods that are rich in iron, especially when you're menstruating. Such foods include fish, meat, poultry and spinach. To better absorb iron, you should be pairing it with vitamin C.

Calcium is crucial for aging women to help lower risk of osteoporosis. If you aren't a fan of milk products, there are other types of food sources that provide calcium such as soy, rice or almond milk.

What foods should men be eating more of?

For men, it's important to eat foods that are healthy and can lower health risks such as prostate cancer. For example, foods that contain lycopene, a bright red carotene and carotenoid pigment found in tomatoes, red carrots and watermelons, are essential.

Are there specific foods that men and women should be avoiding?

Clinical nutrition manager at Medifast, Jennifer Christman, RD, LDN, shares why food affects men and women differently, as well as the types of food that men and women should eat and which they should stay away from.