Struggling with Being Underweight: Seeking Solutions and Guidance

The issue of being underweight has been a persistent concern?

Hello, I am 24 years old and have struggled with being underweight since middle school.
I am currently 175 cm tall and weigh between 53-55 kg, which is considered too thin.
Could you please help me? I have the following medical conditions, but they are regularly monitored and stable: hepatitis B carrier and kidney stones.
I previously underwent an appendectomy during college.
I would like to know if I need a nutritionist to assist me at this point.
Does your hospital have doctors who can help me? Alternatively, is there any surgery that could help me gain weight to reach 70 or 80 kg? Thank you for your response.
Many doctors have mentioned that it might be a matter of constitution; how can I improve my overall health?

Mr. Zhu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/04/20

Dr. Hong Shouhong reply Family Medicine

Being overweight or underweight is related not only to age, diet, and lifestyle habits but also to one's constitution and genetics.
If there is a drastic change in weight over a short period, it may be associated with certain diseases, and a medical examination should be sought.
Your height is 175 cm, and your weight is approximately 54 kg, resulting in a body mass index (BMI) of about 17.69 kg/m², which is indeed on the lower side.
However, if your diet is balanced and your activity level is normal, there should not be significant issues.
For dietary concerns, it is advisable to consult a nutritionist to learn how to eat healthily.

Reply Date: 2004/04/20

More Info

Hello! Thank you for reaching out with your concerns about being underweight. It’s important to address this issue, especially since maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for overall health and well-being. Based on your height of 175 cm and weight of 53-55 kg, your Body Mass Index (BMI) falls below the normal range, indicating that you are underweight. This can lead to various health issues, including weakened immune function, decreased muscle mass, and potential nutrient deficiencies.

Given your medical history, including being a carrier of hepatitis B and having a history of kidney stones, it’s essential to approach weight gain carefully and under medical supervision. Here are some steps and considerations that may help you in your journey to gain weight healthily:
1. Consult a Healthcare Professional: It would be beneficial for you to consult with a healthcare provider, such as a primary care physician or a gastroenterologist, who can assess your overall health and provide personalized advice. They can evaluate any underlying conditions that might be contributing to your low weight.

2. Nutritionist/Dietitian: Working with a registered dietitian or nutritionist can be incredibly helpful. They can create a tailored meal plan that focuses on calorie-dense foods that are also nutritious. This may include incorporating healthy fats (like avocados, nuts, and olive oil), protein-rich foods (such as lean meats, dairy, legumes, and eggs), and complex carbohydrates (like whole grains and starchy vegetables).

3. Caloric Surplus: To gain weight, you need to consume more calories than your body burns. This can be achieved by increasing portion sizes, eating more frequent meals, and snacking on high-calorie foods. Smoothies and shakes can also be a great way to add calories without making you feel overly full.

4. Strength Training: Incorporating strength training exercises into your routine can help you build muscle mass, which is a healthy way to gain weight. Resistance training can stimulate muscle growth and improve your overall body composition.

5. Monitor Your Progress: Keep track of your weight and dietary intake. Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider can help monitor your progress and make necessary adjustments to your plan.

6. Addressing Underlying Conditions: Since you mentioned having hepatitis B and kidney stones, it’s crucial to ensure that these conditions are well-managed. Sometimes, chronic health issues can affect appetite and metabolism, making it harder to gain weight.

7. Avoid Quick Fixes: While it may be tempting to consider surgical options for weight gain, such as gastric bypass or other procedures, these are typically not recommended for individuals who are underweight. Surgical interventions should be approached with caution and only after thorough evaluation and consideration of all other options.

8. Lifestyle Changes: Ensure you are getting enough sleep, managing stress, and staying hydrated, as these factors can also influence your weight and overall health.

In summary, gaining weight in a healthy manner involves a combination of dietary changes, physical activity, and regular medical supervision. It’s essential to approach this process holistically and with the guidance of healthcare professionals who can provide support tailored to your specific needs. Please consider reaching out to a nutritionist and your primary care physician to discuss your situation further. Best of luck on your journey to achieving a healthier weight!

Similar Q&A

Understanding Weight Gain: Nutritional Strategies for the Underweight

I see many people asking this question, and it seems that those who want to gain weight are just as concerned about their bodies as those who want to lose weight. I am also quite thin, with a BMI of only 19.6, which is more than 10% below the normal range. Nutritionists typically...

Dr. Xie Huimin reply Nutrition
Based on experience, it is indeed more difficult for thin individuals to gain weight compared to overweight individuals losing weight. You have analyzed this issue very well. Diseases, personality, diet, and exercise are significant factors affecting body weight. If we exclude di...

Struggling with Body Image: The Dangerous Desire for Anorexia

I am 167 cm tall. Two years ago, I weighed 78 kg, and now I weigh 46 kg. Even though I am already too thin, I still constantly want to lose weight and feel that I am fat. This summer, I developed binge eating behaviors, going to all-you-can-eat cake and barbecue buffets four time...

Dr. Cai Xiuwen reply Nutrition
Hello, based on your height, your ideal weight should be at least 55 kilograms. Your current body mass index (BMI) is 16.49, which indicates that you are underweight. I believe you need psychological support; stop calling yourself "chubby." Every day, remind yourself, &...

Struggling with Weight and Self-Esteem: A College Student's Dilemma

I'm sorry to hear that you're feeling this way. It's important to talk to someone who can help you, such as a healthcare professional or a counselor. They can provide support and guidance tailored to your situation. Remember, you're not alone, and there are pe...

Dr. Hong Chuanqi reply Family Medicine
Hello, Yachuan. 1. The letter does not indicate height and weight; may I know your BMI? 2. Weight loss methods: Jogging for 30 to 45 minutes daily and incorporating other exercises, gradually reducing your meal portions to half of your current intake to allow your stomach to n...

Struggling with Low Weight: Seeking Solutions Beyond Metabolism Issues

Non-smoker; irregular exercise habits. Height 176 cm, weight 55 kg, BMI: 17.76 (underweight). Flexibility: 10 (poor), Muscle strength: 20 (poor) ------ (the above is the online assessment result) ------ I asked last time and followed the advice given, which was to see a metabolic...

Dr. Chen Qingbin reply Physical Fitness
If the examination shows no issues, it is likely related to one's constitution. Increasing physical activity and consuming more food can enhance flexibility, strength, and body weight.