Researchers Confirm What We Always Knew: Man Flu is Real!

When we’re stuck under the duvet, with the cold grasp of flu holding onto our noses, and soup needs to be served in bed? It turns out we actually have a valid excuse.

Forget about being called whiny — now science backs up that men genuinely feel worse when they’re sick. And it’s not just something we say to get another scoop of chicken soup or a free pass to the remote control.

Testosterone – Your Tough Buddy with a Weak Immune System

A doctor known as Dr. Joe on Instagram dropped an explanatory bomb in the debate about man flu. According to him, there is a real, biological difference in how men and women react to illnesses like the flu.

Women have estrogen in their bodies, which boosts the immune system and gives them a better chance to fight off viruses quickly. As for men? Our testosterone dampens the immune response, which actually worsens our symptoms. Yes, you read that right.

At the same time, we release more inflammatory cytokines, which means more pain, fatigue, and a feeling of being hit by a small bus.

We’re Not Drama Queens – We’re Just Biologically Set Up to Feel Worse

There’s also something about women being more used to “gritting through the pain” — from menstrual cramps to childbirth — which may make them appear to have it easier. But according to research, it’s not about weakness — it’s about physiology.

Harvard Health also confirms that women have stronger immune systems and respond better to vaccines. Men, on the other hand, are more likely to be hospitalized with the flu and have higher mortality rates in certain cases.

So next time someone rolls their eyes when you’re lying on the couch with the blanket over your head watching Die Hard for the 14th time, remember: It’s not whining — it’s biology.

Our team may have used AI to assist in the creation of this content, which has been reviewed by our editors.