Underweight? If so, you’re probably tired of hearing people say how lucky you are.
Being too thin can be risky to your health. You need the fat layer just under your skin to help protect you from cold and cushion your body from injury. That fat layer is a source of stored energy if you need it. If underweight comes from undereating, the chances of tiredness, irritability, lack of concentration, and the risk of infection go up.
If you need to gain weight, do it smart. Eat plenty of nutrient-rich foods (but still without too much fat). Try frequent meals and snacks; drink beverages 30 minutes before and after eating, not with meals (so they don’t fill you up); and yes, fit in physical activity, which builds muscle and stimulates appetite.
If you have a poor appetite for any reason including illness, fatigue, stress, medication, or disease—even if you’re normal weight—try this to stimulate your appetite and make eating more appealing:
- Eat five or six smaller meals instead of three bigger ones during the day.
- Add more appeal to food with more color, more texture, more aroma in your meal.
- Eat with friends.
- Drink a small glass of wine or beer before eating.
- Slow down. If rushing takes your appetite away, plan stressful activities away from mealtime.
- Walk before mealtime.
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