Underweight and looking to gain weight?
Hello, doctor: I previously took a large amount of weight loss pills, which caused my upper body to become emaciated.
I was not overweight to begin with (before losing weight, I was 167 cm and 52 kg).
I wanted to be slimmer, so I started taking weight loss pills, but the consequences were terrifying! My face has become so thin that my eye sockets and cheeks are sunken in, and I've only lost weight in my upper body (now 167 cm and 47 kg).
My body is now uneven, and I feel very upset! Doctor, how can I eat to gain weight back? What foods should I choose for my diet? Also, what would happen if I tried to gain weight quickly? Thank you!
Han Jie, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/07/25
Dr. Qi Minghua reply Nutrition
Hello: Based on your height of 167 cm, your ideal weight range is between 55 to 66 kg.
Your weight before taking weight loss medication was 52 kg, which is considered underweight and does not require weight loss.
Now that you have reduced your weight to 47 kg, it is important to stop taking the weight loss medication and gradually return to your original weight.
It is recommended to increase your weight slowly by eating smaller, more frequent meals.
Aim to increase your daily caloric intake by 500 calories (for example, by adding a cup of skim milk (80 calories) and 1-2 servings of fruit or 3-6 pieces of high-fiber crackers (70-140 calories)).
Maintain a balanced diet with the six major food groups during your three main meals, and incorporate appropriate exercise.
This should help you achieve a well-proportioned body.
Wishing you a healthy recovery.
Miaoli Hospital Nutrition Department, Qi Minghua.
Reply Date: 2004/07/25
More Info
Gaining weight healthily after experiencing weight loss due to diet pills can be a challenging yet achievable goal. It’s important to approach this process with care, focusing on balanced nutrition and gradual weight gain to avoid potential health issues. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to do this effectively.
Understanding Your Current Situation
Given your height of 167 cm and weight of 47 kg, you are currently underweight based on the Body Mass Index (BMI) scale. A healthy BMI typically ranges from 18.5 to 24.9, and your current BMI is approximately 16.9, which indicates that you need to gain weight for your overall health. The goal should be to achieve a balanced weight that supports your body’s needs without resorting to unhealthy methods.
Nutritional Recommendations
1. Increase Caloric Intake Gradually: To gain weight healthily, aim to increase your caloric intake by about 300-500 calories per day. This can be done by adding nutrient-dense foods to your meals rather than simply increasing portion sizes.
2. Focus on Nutrient-Dense Foods: Choose foods that are high in calories but also provide essential nutrients. Here are some categories of foods to consider:
- Healthy Fats: Incorporate sources of healthy fats such as avocados, nuts, seeds, olive oil, and fatty fish (like salmon). These foods are calorie-dense and can help you gain weight without excessive volume.
- Protein-Rich Foods: Include lean meats, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy products, legumes, and plant-based proteins like tofu and tempeh. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, especially if you are engaging in any physical activity.
- Whole Grains: Opt for whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, oats, and whole grain bread. These provide complex carbohydrates that can help increase your caloric intake while also providing fiber.
- Dairy Products: Full-fat dairy products such as whole milk, yogurt, and cheese can be excellent sources of calories and protein.
3. Frequent Meals and Snacks: Instead of three large meals, consider eating five to six smaller meals throughout the day. This can help you consume more calories without feeling overly full. Include snacks such as nut butter on whole grain toast, smoothies with protein powder, or trail mix.
4. Stay Hydrated but Avoid Empty Calories: While it’s important to stay hydrated, avoid filling up on low-calorie beverages. Instead, opt for smoothies or shakes that can provide both hydration and calories.
Avoiding Rapid Weight Gain
While it might be tempting to want to gain weight quickly, doing so can lead to unhealthy fat accumulation and other health issues. Rapid weight gain can also strain your body, especially after the effects of diet pills. Aim for a gradual increase of about 0.5 to 1 kg (1 to 2 pounds) per week. This approach allows your body to adjust and minimizes the risk of gaining unhealthy fat.
Monitoring Your Progress
Keep track of your weight and how you feel physically and mentally during this process. If you notice any adverse effects or if you struggle to gain weight despite following these recommendations, it may be beneficial to consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian. They can provide personalized guidance and support tailored to your specific needs.
Conclusion
Gaining weight healthily after losing it due to diet pills requires a balanced approach focused on nutrient-dense foods, gradual caloric increases, and regular meals. By prioritizing your health and well-being, you can achieve a balanced weight that supports your overall health. Remember, the goal is not just to gain weight but to do so in a way that enhances your health and vitality.
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