ByDaniella Gray
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Millions of men say they want to lose weight, yet many abandon diets before they achieve lasting results
Researchers set out to find out why, and their answers challenged some assumptions about what motivates men to change their eating habits
A study, published in PLOS One, explored men’s attitudes towards weight loss and uncovered a common theme that repeatedly emerged during interviews with participants
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Researchers at Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) interviewed 24 men aged 30 and older in the United Kingdom who had previously been overweight, either taking part in weight-loss programs or planning to lose weight
Their findings suggest that many men associate dieting with deprivation and sacrifice, creating an immediate barrier to engagement
Participants frequently described the word “diet” itself in negative terms, linking it to restrictions on favorite foods rather than improved health or wellbeing
The perception that dieting is largely a female-focused activity emerged as another significant obstacle
Men in the study said diet culture is often discussed in settings they viewed as aimed primarily at women, such as lifestyle magazines and social media content
As a result, some felt uncomfortable or self-conscious about openly participating in dieting programs
The findings come as excess weight remains a major public health challenge
According to NHS England figures cited by the researchers, around 70 percent of men in England are overweight or living with obesity, compared with 62 percent of women
However, the study also identified factors that were more likely to motivate men to make lasting lifestyle changes
Rather than responding positively to traditional dieting messages, participants were more enthusiastic about weight-loss approaches framed as a challenge or goal-oriented activity
Programs that included an element of competition or achievement appeared to resonate more strongly with male participants
Support from partners also played a crucial role. Many participants described spouses as their biggesttted to healthier habits over time
Some men reported that dietary changes were largely initiated or supported by their partner’s knowledge and experience
The researchers say the findings highlight the need for weight-management programs that better reflect men’s experiences and attitudes toward food, dieting and health
Rather than focusing solely on restriction, interventions may be more successful if they emphasize sustainable lifestyle changes, personal goals and social support
While the study involved a relatively small number of participants, it is believed to be the first academic investigation specifically examining men’s motivations, experiences and preferences when it comes to weight loss
The authors hope the findings can help shape future public health strategies aimed at improving engagement among men who may otherwise avoid traditional dieting programs
Newsweek reached out to the researchers for comment
Reference
Cortnage, M., Lillis, J. and Roberts, J. (2026). Male perceptions and experiences of weight loss initiatives: Considerations for sustainable lifestyle practices. PLOS One, 21(8), p.e0348158. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0348158
Contact Newsweek editors on this story: Kara Dolman and Gray R. Thomas
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