New Study Highlights Differences in Metabolic Response to Breakfast Between Sexes

A recent study from the University of Waterloo reveals that metabolic responses to meals vary significantly between men and women, offering insights that could inform personalized dietary strategies for integrative health practitioners. The research uses a mathematical model to simulate metabolic reactions in men and women, focusing on how different types of breakfast meals influence metabolism after a fasting period.

The findings, published in Computers in Biology and Medicine, suggest that men’s metabolisms are more responsive to high-carbohydrate meals, such as oats and grains, following a fast. In contrast, women benefit more from meals higher in fats, like omelets and avocados. 

“We live busy lives, so it’s important to understand how seemingly inconsequential decisions, such as what to have for breakfast, can affect our health and energy levels," said lead author Stéphanie Abo, a PhD candidate in Applied Mathematics.

The study highlights a broader issue in medical research: the gap in data concerning how women’s bodies metabolize fat differently from men’s. The research team aimed to bridge this gap by leveraging mathematical models that allow for testing hypotheses more efficiently and developing experiments beyond what is practical with human participants.

Interestingly, the study challenges some common assumptions about fat metabolism. “Since women have more body fat on average than men, you would think that they would burn less fat for energy, but they don’t," said Anita Layton, a professor of Applied Mathematics at University of Waterloo. "The results of the model suggest that women store more fat immediately after a meal but also burn more fat during a fast.” 

Looking ahead, the researchers plan to expand their models to incorporate variables such as weight, age, and menstrual cycle stages, providing even more precise dietary recommendations for both men and women.