Gender differences in eating habits and sports preferences across age groups: a cross-sectional study

• DOI: 10.1186/s12967-025-06311-x
• Publication Date: 2025-03-12T09:42:49Z
• Authors: Stefania Gorini; Elisabetta Camajani; Edda Cava; Alessandra Feraco; Andrea Armani; Isaac Amoah; Tiziana Filardi; Xinyan Wu; Rocky Strollo; Massimiliano Caprio; Elvira Padua; Mauro Lombardo
• Keywords: Cross-sectional study; Food habits

Gender differences in dietary habits, physical activity and body composition are key determinants of health disease risk. Although these well documented, their variation across age groups remains poorly explored. This study examines gender-specific patterns eating behaviours, sport preferences metrics, with the aim providing evidence for tailored public interventions. A cross-sectional was conducted on 2,276 participants (1,349 females 927 males) aged 18–75 years. Recruitment combined an online survey clinical assessments. Body evaluated bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) habits were investigated detailed weekly food diaries. between five statistically analysed using chi-square t-tests (p ≤ 0.05). The protocol approved by Lazio Area 5 Ethics Committee. Significant observed genders: men had a higher lean mass basal metabolic rate, whereas women showed fat all groups. Eating varied significantly: preferred salty protein-rich foods, consumed alcohol more frequently prevalence meal skipping uncontrolled behaviour. Women greater regularity, preference sweet tastes likelihood alone older Sports participation differs markedly group 30–39 years, which predominantly involved team sports, while favoured strength training skill activities. highlights strong gender disparities lifestyle behaviour, evolve age. These findings underline that strategies, responding to requirements, needed promote healthier lifestyles reduce inequalities. Future studies should use longitudinal designs explore causal relationships. is registered ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT06661330; 22 October 2024, retrospectively). Available at: https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT06661330 .