Posts tagged body composition | XY Files – Veedma's evidence-based men's health articles

How long does it take to lose muscle? The science of detraining

Dr. Bruno Rodriguez, DPT, CSCS: Strength, Recovery, and Physical Therapy Expert

Jan 17, 2026 · 11 min read

Taking a break from the gym can cause anxiety about shrinking biceps and lost strength. The clinical reality is that true muscle loss takes longer than you think, provided your hormones and nutrition remain dialled in. “Many men panic when they miss a week of training, assuming their gains will vanish overnight. The reality is ...

Is BRI better than BMI? The new longevity metric men need to know

Dr. Susan Carter, MD: Endocrinologist & Longevity Expert

Jan 15, 2026 · 12 min read

For decades, the Body Mass Index has labeled muscular men as overweight while missing the hidden risks in average-sized guys. Now, the Body Roundness Index offers a clearer picture of your shape, your visceral fat, and your future health. “We have relied on BMI for too long, even though we know it is a blunt ...

Should I lose weight before building muscle? A men’s guide to getting leaner without losing strength

Dr. Susan Carter, MD: Endocrinologist & Longevity Expert

Jan 11, 2026 · 12 min read

If you’re asking “should I lose weight before building muscle,” you’re really asking how to drop fat without sacrificing strength, testosterone, and long-term metabolic health. The best answer depends on your waistline, your health risks, and how you structure training and nutrition. By Men’s Health Editorial Team “Most men don’t need an extreme ‘cut’ or ...

Gut health and weight loss: the science behind why some men struggle to lean out

Dr. Susan Carter, MD: Endocrinologist & Longevity Expert

Jan 09, 2026 · 10 min read

Calories still matter, but your gut microbiome can change how your body handles food, hunger, and metabolic “efficiency.” Here’s what the evidence says and what to do next if your weight loss feels harder than it should. Expert reviewed by Dr. Susan Carter, MD “When a man’s gut microbiome loses diversity, it’s like an ecosystem ...

Does lifting weights burn fat? The science-backed answer for men who want visible results

Dr. Bruno Rodriguez, DPT, CSCS: Strength, Recovery, and Physical Therapy Expert

Jan 05, 2026 · 9 min read

Yes, but not in the simple “fat melts during your workout” way most guys imagine. Here’s what the research says about how strength training supports fat loss, how to set up your training week, and what to track so your effort shows up in the mirror. “If you’re asking ‘does lifting weights burn fat,’ the ...