Recession Pounds - Do Men Like Women With a Little Meat?

by Maggie Vink (Subscribe to Maggie Vink's posts)
Mar 19th 2009 4:00PM

Hey ladies! Are you trying to cut costs at the grocery store by buying low-cost junk like mac and cheese? It's not going to do your health or your hips any favors, but it just might get a date.

A 2005 study found that during times of "resource scarcity," men's preferences for female body types change. So exactly what does that mean? Are recession-weary men drooling over Botticelli-like rounded bellies and ample hips? Nothing quite so drastic. But men in the study did tend to find women who were a few pounds heavier more sexually attractive.

Researchers set up four situations to see what men find hot; two variables made the guys feel financially insecure while the other two variables tested them when they were physically hungry. The men who felt financially insecure chose women who were about two pounds heavier than those chosen by men who felt financially stable. And hungry guys tended to go for women who were about three pounds heavier than those chosen by men who were full.

I don't know whether to laugh or be offended.

Whatever this study might imply, I would hope no woman strives to put on a few extra pounds just for the sake of attracting a man. After all, sexual attraction is a tricky thing. Sure, a lot of men ogle women with a good bodies and a pretty faces. But a woman's confidence, intelligence and her connection with a man also play a role in sexual attraction.

Besides, the reasons for having a fit body should be a little more substantial than just looking good for someone else. Self-confidence, strength, health and energy ... now those are the real motivators for fitness. Even during these penny-pinching times, there's no reason to let your health and fitness go. We've got plenty of recession-friendly tips for staying fit, stress free, and eating healthfully.

Still, I can't help but wonder: Ladies, would you be willing to pack on a few pounds to look sexier?

[via Lemondrop]

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Comments (7)

Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)

DaleK 3-20-2009 @ 12:56AM

If my felt my purpose in life was to be eye candy, something put here on earth strictly for male viewing pleasure, I'd answer yes to your question. (This is a hot button for me..can you tell?)

I wouldn't gain or lose an ounce to please anyone but myself. I'm old. Been there done that. Trust me, it doesn't work long term and it might even make you a miserable wench.

Would I gain weight to please myself...ABSOLUTELY! And yes, pleasing myself does involve looking sexier.....
TO ME!!! Forget what men want. And besides, they aren't nearly as hard to please as women are!

I need to keep this G-rated, but feeling good in my own skin has benefits outside of being a visual stimulant for the man in my life. Do I want him to find me physically attractive? Of course. If he doesn't? I'll find someone who does. Or, (gasp!) fly solo!

That said, me, myself, and I, are the ones who determine what is sexy and what is not.

The outter reflects the inner! If I like me, I guarantee you...so does whoever happens to be lucky enough to have me! ;)

Maggie Vink 3-20-2009 @ 9:07AM

Well said!

M.M. 3-20-2009 @ 9:25AM

Yes, well said DaleK! Personally I have gained about 5 or 6 pounds since I started working out in January. I think I look healthier - and I have had a LOT more positive comments and pick up lines from men. However my boyfriend likes me skinny, too skinny. Actually we had a huge arguement over my weight last week.... Anyway, I agree re: flying solo ;) If he doesn't shape up soon, I am out of here!

Joy 3-24-2009 @ 8:44PM

The last time a man told me I needed to take off some weight, I told him that I would be happy to lose a few inches where ever he wanted me to as soon as he grew a few where I wanted him to!!!

Never discussed my weight again!!

Storm 3-26-2009 @ 8:52AM

LOL!!! Excellent reply!!! ;)

Alfredo 4-04-2009 @ 10:14AM

Well, excuse me the ladies for getting in this dialogue but I believe many men, not all off course, prefer their lady on the slim side of the equation. When I look to a woman with a lot of weight on I tend to lose interest in her. No attraction, even if she is the prettiest in town.

Probably the same happens from the other side of the fence. Women don´t like overweight men, they also lose sexual interest in them. The reason probably is that as you become fatter your sexual hormones go crazy and you feel no sexual desires.

Alfredo E.
www.Omega-3-fish-oil-wonders.com

James 5-03-2009 @ 2:02PM

Honestly, I don't care how heavy a woman is as long as it doesn't seriously compromise her health (that goes both ways, too). What bothers me more are things like being arrogant and bitchy. I'll be turned on on a dime if she throws me a compliment. Call me easy.