What is the approximate body water percentage in men compared to women?

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Prepare for the UCF APK4163 Final Exam in Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism. Challenge yourself with multiple choice and flashcard questions, each providing hints and detailed explanations. Ace your exam and boost your confidence!

The approximate body water percentage is indeed higher in men compared to women due to several physiological factors. Generally, the average body water content is around 60% in men and about 55% in women. This difference can be attributed to variations in body composition; men typically have a higher muscle mass and lower body fat percentage than women. Muscle tissue contains more water than fat tissue, which is why men tend to have a greater overall water percentage.

Moreover, hormonal differences also play a role in body composition and water retention, further solidifying the distinction between the two sexes. Children's bodies have a different composition, often with a higher percentage of water compared to adults, but that does not directly relate to the comparison between men and women. Thus, understanding these physiological distinctions helps clarify why men generally have a higher body water percentage.