It is quite common to find that women tend to follow weight loss programs and try out various fad diets while men tend to focus more on exercise as a way of losing weight. However, it is important for men to realize that a nutritious and well balanced diet will also help in reducing weight along with an effective exercise regime.

With the onset of middle age, paying attention to ones diet becomes very important for men. As one grows older their calorie needs tend to decrease by around 2 to 4 percent with every passing decade. For an average sized man who measures 5 ft 9 inches and weighs 170 pounds, the appropriate calorie intake is usually around 2500 calories per day when they are in their youth and this intake tends to reduce to around 2200-2350 calories as they grow older.

One reason why the calorie intake reduces as men grow older is because their muscle mass decreases. Higher calories are normally required in order to circulate blood to the muscles, maintain internal body temperature and repair the damaged cells among other functions. However as men grow older, their muscle mass decreases and hence requires fewer calories.

Another important reason is because of the lowering of the natural metabolic rate. This rate determines the base or natural rate at which the body burns calories for all its functions even when a person is asleep. On an average this rate accounts to burning around 70 calories per hour for most men. The hormonal and other natural changes that occur with age tend to reduce this natural metabolic rate.

As one grows older, there is glandular reduction that results in the biological process known as aging. For example with age, the thyroid and adrenal glands among others tend to become less effective in their functions.

It is for these reasons that men should be careful not to consume excessive calories in their middle age. The excess calories get stored in Adipose Tissue and result in body fat. For most this body fat is considered highly unappealing and even increases the risk of developing health problems.

When it comes to the topic of Body Mass Index (BMI) those with a BMI above 30 should be concerned about their weight because it borders on obesity. A BMI of 40 or a waist circumference over 40 inches is considered obese for an average male.

Men should be careful about what they eat as they grow older. Reducing ones daily calorie intake by just 50-100 calories a day for every decade past 29 will be beneficial in the long run and reduce the risk of developing body fat or growing obese.

Alternatively, one can also burn around 50 to 100 calories a day just by walking an extra mile daily. This will help to maintain optimal health and prevent weight gain.

Thus, the key to keeping fit and healthy is to stay active and reduce calories.