Being underweight can imply that your body is not receiving enough nutrients to sustain healthy bones, skin, and hair. This condition may lead to health issues such as osteoporosis, anemia, persistent fatigue, among others.
While genetics or health conditions may prevent some individuals from gaining weight, medical interventions exist to assist with weight gain.
In this guide, we will explore how to determine if you are underweight, the underlying causes, possible treatments, and when to consult a healthcare provider.
Determining Underweight Status The Body Mass Index (BMI) is the standard metric used by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to assess if an individual is underweight, of normal weight, or overweight. BMI compares your weight relative to your height, thus providing a more personalized measure. For example, someone weighing 170 pounds may be of normal weight if tall but could be overweight if shorter.
The BMI ranges are as follows:
- Underweight: BMI less than 18.5
- Normal/healthy weight: BMI 18.5 to 24.9
- Overweight: BMI 25.0 to 29.9
- Obese: BMI 30 or higher
These ranges may not accurately reflect the weight status of athletes with substantial muscle mass since muscle tissue weighs more than fat.
Health Risks of Being Underweight While not all underweight individuals experience negative health outcomes, some may encounter issues such as:
- Increased risk of osteoporosis, particularly in women, leading to brittle bones.
- Dermatological and dental health issues due to insufficient nutrient intake.
- Weakened immune function, leading to frequent and prolonged illnesses.
- Chronic tiredness due to insufficient caloric intake.
- Anemia, which can cause dizziness and fatigue.
- Irregular menstrual cycles in women, potentially affecting fertility.
- Increased likelihood of premature births in pregnant women.
- Delayed growth and development in young people, sometimes referred to as ‘failure to thrive.’
Studies also suggest that being underweight can correlate with higher mortality rates and may impede recovery from accidents or illnesses.
Causes of Being Underweight The reasons for being underweight can vary and include:
- Genetic predisposition to a lower BMI.
- A fast metabolism which prevents weight gain, even with high-calorie diets.
- High levels of physical activity burning more calories than consumed.
- Illnesses that cause reduced appetite or increased metabolism, like cancer or thyroid disorders.
- Mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and eating disorders, which can impact eating habits and perception of body image.
A healthcare professional can diagnose the specific cause and recommend an appropriate weight gain strategy.
Treatment and Weight Gain Strategies Healthful ways to gain weight include dietary changes, sometimes with the guidance of a dietitian. Strategies for gaining weight healthfully encompass:
- Introducing nutrient-rich snacks, such as peanut butter crackers or trail mix.
- Eating smaller, more frequent meals if large portions are unmanageable.
- Adding calorie-dense foods to meals, like nuts or seeds.
- Avoiding high-calorie foods that are low in nutrients and high in sugars and fats.
Medical interventions may include prescribing anti-nausea medication or appetite stimulants when necessary.
When to Consult a Healthcare Provider Consult a doctor if you cannot gain weight or experience health issues due to being underweight, like irregular menstruation or infertility.
Mental health struggles or eating disorders require immediate professional attention. Warning signs include secretive behaviors, significant weight loss, social withdrawal, fatigue, and reluctance to eat publicly.
Outlook An underweight status may predispose individuals to certain health risks. Maintaining a healthy BMI is crucial, and working with healthcare professionals can support individuals in achieving and maintaining a suitable weight.