If you’re a man wanting a ripped looking chest, wanting to get rid of man boobs is certainly understandable. Not only is it embarrassing to be seen shirtless, some men feel that it deflects from their masculinity. However, the truth is man boobs, or gynecomastia, isn't a reflection of masculinity but is caused by these two common conditions:

1. Hormone fluctuations. Teenage boys experience these changes when in puberty. These hormone fluctuations can cause breast to become enlarged and sensitive. The best thing to do in this case is nothing – time will get rid of man boobs.

2. Being overweight. Man boobs occur when excess fat is settled on your chest. If you’re well past puberty and still need to get rid of man boobs, more than likely it’s your diet, not hormones, causing your trouble. .

The good news is that there are steps you can take to get rid of man boobs once and for all.

Change your diet

Many experts recommend that your diet consist of 60% carbohydrates, 35% protein and 15% fat. Choose only whole wheat breads and grains -- stay away from processed sugars and white flour. . You’ll boost your metabolism if you eat smaller meals more frequently – eat 5 to 6 meals a day. And portion size is important. You could be eating rabbit food all day, but if you're eating pounds of it you’re not going to drop the weight. Using a smaller plate will make your portions look bigger.

Weight training

There is a reason cut looking men workout with weights to maintain their body shape -- it's an excellent fat burning strategy. When you use weights with strength training, you burn lots of calories. Plus, you’ll build muscles that continue to burn calories even when you're not using them. The best part is when you get rid of the excess fat, you’ll have tone and sculpted chest muscles revealed.

Aerobics

Aerobic exercise has many benefits: uses up calories, is good for your heart and other organs, as well as your overall mental and physical health. Many men choose aerobics because there are so many different exercises to choose from. You can play basketball, racquetball, go for a run, swim laps, play a brisk game of tennis, or use the different machines you can find in a gym. A high intensity work out for at least 20 minutes three times a week will get you on your way. When you combine aerobic exercises with weight training and diet, it will just be a matter of months before you get rid of your man boobs.

You could choose a fourth option but it should be your last resort. Some men choose surgery such as breast reduction or liposuction. While surgery will help you reach your goal more quickly, lifestyle changes is less risky.

Plus, a healthy diet and working out consistently will help get your entire body into shape, not just your chest. Putting forth the effort to get rid of man boobs the "old-fashioned" way will reap the most benefits for you in the long run – a good looking, ripped and chiseled chest.