The Pep Talk: Underweight

All skinny people must be tired of hearing passing comments like,”Do you even eat?” or “I can see your ribs poking out”. The trend for size zero is slowly moving out. Everyone loves a healthy fit figure.

Although being lean is often related to being healthy, being extra skinny and underweight has its own health issues. It may be a symptom of underlying health condition or being underweight may cause other health deterioration.

Food is fuel to the body. The body needs the energy to grow and do work. Inhibited growth and development in children and teens is the most common problem of malnutrition. If one does not take in sufficient nutrients, problems like osteoporosis and anemia may occur. The body will be more susceptible to diseases as the immune system weakens. And you can then blame your weight for all the hair fall and tooth problems too.

If your BMI tells you that you are underweight, it may be because of the following reasons:

• Are you recovering from a sickness?
• Are you physically or emotionally stressed or depressed?
• Are you regularly skipping meals because of lack of time?
• Are you trying to lose weight to look thin rather than healthy?
• Do you feel anxious or worried when you think about food?

Just like losing weight can be difficult, gaining weight also needs counseling and attention. Talk to your doctor and nutritionist.

For all skinny people it’s crucial to understand that just because you are thin it does not give you a free ticket to any amount of junk anytime. Gaining weight should be a gradual process where you gain weight through good muscle build up. Fatty foods, empty calories can have a more negative impact on health. Go for energy dense nutrition packed options.

If you have been thin since a kid and everyone in your family looks just like you, it’s probably genetic. Eating limitless also might not help, unless you exercise too. Yes! Hit the gym. Avoid cardio, lift weights, push yourself and get stronger. Increase your appetite and sleep well.

Post by Zohra Sada

Also read The pep Talk: Obesity and The pep Talk: Obesity vs Underweight in the Diet Corner