His and Her Health Differences

In case you didn't already know, men and women are different! So different, in fact, that we have surprisingly dissimilar symptoms of some of the same physical and psychological conditions. Since a healthy body and mind create the groundwork for great sex, it's important to address any health conditions — and the first step is learning what to look for.

Heart disease
The number-one killer for men and women alike, heart disease is likely to affect women an average of 10 years later than men. Symptoms of a heart attack are far subtler in a woman, often including dizziness, anxiety, and nausea, and women are more likely to suffer second heart attacks within a year of their first.

Autoimmune diseases
Women account for 75 percent of sufferers of autoimmune diseases, such as lupus, multiple sclerosis, and rheumatoid arthritis.

Common medications
A woman's lower body weight and higher percentage of body fat affects her reaction to commonly prescribed drugs. Oral contraceptives and hormone replacement therapy can further change the way these drugs affect women.

Smoking, alcohol, and drugs
Once again, less is more. Women are more susceptible to the negative effects of smoking, drug use, and alcohol abuse. Women experience stronger withdrawal symptoms and a higher risk of related diseases.

Depression
Women are affected two to three times more often than men, and they are more likely to complain of physical symptoms in addition to their emotional symptoms. Sleep disturbances, changes in appetite, and even pain are commonly reported ailments.

These variations in symptoms serve as a good reminder that the basic physiologies of the male and female bodies differ, and, furthermore, what’s good for the goose isn’t always good for the gander! For example, while your partner might be able to polish off a six-pack, BBQ wings, and half a pepperoni pizza on game day without gaining a pound, you might find that your similar indulgences leave you with extra weight — not to mention fatigue and overeater’s regret! Sadly, women often have the short straw when it comes to such weight battles. Men have higher metabolisms than women; this means they can eat more and gain less — and that they can lose weight faster than their female counterparts if, say, they just cut out soda pop and junk food for a couple weeks.

What’s more, the difference in metabolism can also cause your libidos to become mismatched. If you indulge with your partner and pig out on pasta and wine for dinner, not only will you be more likely to bulk up, but you will also be more likely to turn down sex after the meal. All that extra food will have you feeling lethargic and bloated. So while your partner is amorous and ready to go, all you will be able to think about is your ever-expanding waistline. Eek! So much for a romantic date night.

Keeping gender differences like this in mind, you will find it is far better to “eat like a woman” and order a filling, nutritious dish like a perfect piece of sole or a turkey burger. This will ensure that you’ll keep your waistline trim and have the energy and desire you need for romance. Remember, men and women might be equal — but when it comes to health, we have unique concerns that require a little bit of know-how and common sense.