What is the man flu?

As commonly used, the term man flu could be describing a constitutional character flaw of men who, when felled by a cold or flu, embellish the severity of their symptoms, quickly adopt a helpless “patient role,” and rely heavily on others to help them until they recover.

Do men get sicker with the flu?

While the evidence is not definitive, they suggest that the flu may, in fact, be more severe in men. If it’s true that men get sicker with the flu, why? Some have suggested that early man evolved to require more prolonged rest while sick to conserve energy and avoid predators.

How to avoid getting man flu over winter?

The only real way to try and avoid getting man flu over winter is by giving your immune system a helping hand. Firstly, make sure you are eating the right things during the winter months. Foods full of immune-boosting vitamins include blueberries, watercress, kale, beetroot, garlic and ginger, which all taste delicious and are really versatile.

Why do men have fewer flu symptoms than women?

This may lead to fewer symptoms. The flu virus may not spread as quickly in women because of estrogen and how the female body reacts to it. Studies have not shown if the same thing applies to the cold virus. What’s more, the part of the brain that controls body temperature is larger in men because of testosterone.

What’s the difference between a man cold and a woman cold?

When a man gets a cold, everything shuts down. They’re on the couch in misery — unwilling to do anything (even go to the doctor). But a woman with a cold just bucks up and goes on about their day. Or so the story of the so-called “man cold” goes.

Why do flu viruses spread differently in men and women?

The flu virus may not spread as quickly in women because of estrogen and how the female body reacts to it. Studies have not shown if the same thing applies to the cold virus. What’s more, the part of the brain that controls body temperature is larger in men because of testosterone. This may lead to higher fevers in men vs. women, Templeton says.