Gender Differences in Taste and Food Habits: Implications for Personalized Nutrition ^†

Abstract

Research into the optimal diet’s impact on health and the environment underscores the value of a plant-based diet, rich in plant foods and linked to health benefits and sustainability. However, long-term dietary adherence remains a challenge due to individual variation. A study with 3016 participants examined gender-specific differences in dietary behaviors and taste preferences. Women favored whole grains, vegetables, and salty foods, while men consumed more meat. Water and sugary drinks were more common among women. Tailored gender-specific strategies for promoting healthy lifestyles are crucial. These findings highlight societal influences and the potential for precision nutrition strategies integrating genetics, taste, and gender differences to enhance personalized interventions’ effectiveness.

1. Introduction

Understanding the optimal diet for human health and its impact on the planet has been the subject of extensive research [1,2]. In recent years, a consensus has emerged that a plant-based diet, rich in vegetables, whole grains, fruits, legumes, nuts, and seeds, offers significant health benefits and contributes to environmental sustainability [3,4]. This dietary pattern has been linked to the prevention and management of chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular conditions, diabetes, and certain types of cancer. Furthermore, adopting plant-based eating habits can help to mitigate the environmental impact of food production by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and preserving natural resources [5]. However, despite the availability of well-defined dietary guidelines, the long-term adherence and effectiveness of nutritional therapies remain challenging [6]. Individual variability in response to dietary interventions necessitates a personalized approach to nutrition, considering factors such as genetics, metabolism, and lifestyle. Within the realm of personalized nutrition, exploring gender differences in taste preferences and food habits holds significant potential for tailoring dietary recommendations to improve compliance and achieve desirable health outcomes.

2. Methods

This study was an observational study conducted on men and women aged between 9 and 90 years. Data were collected over a period of 6 months using a questionnaire that focused on dietary habits, including food preferences, taste preferences, and meal frequency, as well as lifestyle factors such as physical activity and smoking habits. Anamnestic data were also collected, including weight, abdominal circumference, and body composition. Statistical analyses were performed using StatTech v. 3.1.6 (StatTech LLC). Stratified analyses and interaction models were employed to assess the impact of gender on dietary behaviors and taste preferences.

3. Results

The study included 3016 subjects, with a majority of 60.2% being women. The average age of the participants was 39 years. Among them, 23.8% identified as smokers. In terms of occupation, 42% were employees, 14% were students, 3.5% were retirees, 18.4% were unemployed, and 21.1% fell into other categories. Looking at income distribution, 19.4% earned less than EUR 20,000 per year, while 65% fell within the EUR 20,000 to EUR 40,000 range. Additionally, 13.2% reported an annual income of EUR 40,000 to EUR 60,000, while only 2.6% earned more than EUR 60,000 annually. Statistically significant gender differences were observed in various dietary and lifestyle habits. Women reported higher consumption of plant-based foods like legumes (p = 0.049) and cooked vegetables (p < 0.001), while men had higher consumption of red meat (p < 0.001) and processed meat (p < 0.001). In lifestyle habits, 60.2% of men engaged in sports compared to 49.2% of women (p < 0.001). Among those who practiced sports, 38.2% of men did so for 5–10 h a week, compared to 19.2% of women (p < 0.001). However, for several food items like dairy milk and fish, no statistically significant differences were observed.

4. Discussion

The results revealed significant gender-specific differences in dietary habits and taste preferences. Women showed a higher preference for whole grain foods, cereals such as barley, cooked vegetables, and liked salty foods more than sweet foods. On the other hand, men had lower consumption of eggs, meat, and processed meat. Women consumed more water, sugar-sweetened beverages, and alcoholic drinks compared to men. Men exhibited faster eating habits, more nighttime eating, and poorer sleep quality (Figure 1). Additionally, women reported missing more meals and experiencing more uncontrollable eating episodes. Men tended to eat out more frequently and had a tendency to be hungrier later in the day (Figure 2). These findings emphasize the need for gender-specific approaches to promote a healthy lifestyle. Tailored programs considering the distinct dietary habits, taste preferences, and eating behaviors of men and women could prove more effective in supporting individuals in achieving their health and wellness goals. Furthermore, this study highlights the influence of societal perceptions, such as body weight ideals, on nutritional behavior and underscores the importance of considering social factors in understanding and addressing gender-related differences in eating behavior. Integrating the knowledge obtained from nutriomics approaches with the investigation of gender differences in taste and food habits offers a holistic understanding of the complex interactions between genetics, diet, and gender-specific responses [7,8]. These gender-specific results offer a basis for more comprehensive personalized nutritional strategies. By understanding how gender differences in dietary habits and taste preferences interact with other individual factors such as genetics, metabolism, and lifestyle, more effective and personalized nutritional interventions can be designed.