Weight gain is not the only major health concern; being underweight or falling below the normal range is an independent health issue as well.
It may be linked to osteoporosis, frequent colds, or other conditions. But what causes underweight in the first place? And how can it be treated in adults?
What is Being Underweight in Adults?
Being underweight or having a low body weight means it is below the healthy range for an individual, implying the body lacks the nutrition it needs.
This is typically indicated by a Body Mass Index (BMI) of less than 18.5 for most adults.
What are the Causes of Being Underweight in Adults?
Some people tend to be thinner than others due to genetics, what they eat, or their lifestyle. However, certain health problems can also contribute to being underweight, such as:
1. Mental Health Disorders
Mental health conditions, such as eating disorders and mood disorders like depression, can lead to self-deprivation of food. Additionally, severe stress or dementia can make a person more likely to forget to eat.
2. Physical Difficulties in Eating
Certain diseases or medications may cause nausea or loss of appetite, making it difficult to consume enough food. Some conditions may also cause problems with chewing or swallowing.
3. Malabsorption Disorders
Health issues, such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), can make it difficult to absorb enough calories from food. Chronic diarrhea, for example, can deplete the calories the body needs.
4. Increased Calorie Requirements
Excessive exercise can increase the body's need for calories.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding are also reasons for needing more calories than usual; if these needs are not met, being underweight can be a logical result.
Risks of Being Underweight
There are several health problems associated with being below the normal weight range or being underweight, such as:
1. Osteoporosis
Underweight is linked to an increased risk of osteoporosis, where bones become brittle and more prone to fracture, especially in women.
2. Frequent Illness
If a person does not get enough energy from their diet to maintain a healthy weight, they may also not get enough to fight off infections.
Consequently, illnesses like the common cold may occur more frequently or last longer than usual.
3. Skin, Hair, or Teeth Problems
An underweight individual may show other symptoms, especially if they are not consuming enough nutrients, such as:
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Thinning or dry skin.
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Hair loss.
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Poor dental health.
4. Feeling Tired Most of the Time
If the body does not get enough calories, feeling exhausted or tired most of the time is a logical consequence, as is being underweight.
5. Irregular Menstrual Cycles
Menstrual cycles may be irregular in women who are underweight, or they may stop altogether. Irregular or absent periods can also lead to infertility.
What are the Symptoms of Being Underweight in Adults?
A body weight below the normal range is the primary sign of being underweight, but there are other associated symptoms, such as:
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Dizziness.
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Vertigo.
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Weakness and fatigue.
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Low pulse and blood pressure.
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Thinning or falling hair.
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Irritability or depression.
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Irregular menstruation.
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Difficulty conceiving.
How to Treat Underweight Adults?
There are many methods that can be used to increase weight in adults, starting with following a healthy diet that includes nutritious, high-calorie foods. Key elements of any weight-gain diet for adults include:
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Eating several small meals a day: Sometimes a person is underweight because they cannot tolerate large meals. Instead, it is recommended to eat several small meals throughout the day.
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Incorporating additional foods: Calorie-dense food sources can be added to the current diet, such as placing almonds on cereal or yogurt, chia seeds on salads or soups, or nut butter on whole-grain toast.
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Adding snacks: Snacks rich in protein and complex carbohydrates can also help a person gain weight, such as protein bars, trail mixes, or peanut butter crackers.
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Avoiding empty calories: Consuming high calories may lead to weight gain, but they may also contain excess fats that can harm cardiovascular health. Therefore, foods high in sugar and salt should be avoided.
Choosing the Best Nutritional Supplement for Treating Underweight
Choosing the Best Dietary Supplement is an important step in the weight gain journey for adults. Following a healthy diet alone may not be enough in some cases, as the body may need additional support from nutritional supplements to compensate for the lack of calories, protein, vitamins, and essential minerals.
The best nutritional supplement varies from person to person depending on their health condition and individual needs, so it is always important to consult a doctor before starting to take any of them.
Dietary Supplements for Weight Gain in Adults
AlJawaher AlMotamayza Pharmacies provide a range of dietary supplements to help adults gain weight, but you must consult a doctor to choose what is right for you:
1. Ensure Max Protein Chocolate (18 x 330 ml)
Ensure Max Protein Chocolate is a dietary supplement containing 30 grams of protein plus 25 vitamins and minerals, ensuring optimal nutrition and compensating for any nutrient or calorie deficiencies to help with weight gain.
2. Nestlé Beneprotein (227 g)
Nestlé Beneprotein 227 g is a dietary supplement rich in whey protein, providing the body with essential protein and compensating for protein deficiencies in those suffering from malnutrition or underweight.
3. Ensure Plus Advance Chocolate Milk
Ensure Plus Advance Chocolate contains a high amount of protein, reaching 20 grams per bottle.
It also provides an appropriate amount of calories, minerals, and vitamins, ensuring optimal nutrition and treating underweight.
4. Ensure Compact 2.4 kcal Vanilla (24 x 125 ml)
Ensure Compact Vanilla provides 2.4 calories per ml (300 calories per bottle) and 12.8 grams of protein, in addition to essential vitamins and minerals, making it a suitable dietary supplement for underweight.
When Should You Consult a Doctor?
A doctor should be consulted if there are any adverse health effects due to being underweight, such as infertility or irregular menstrual cycles.
You should also consult a doctor in cases of mental health disorders or eating disorders that prevent a person from eating enough food, as supplements may not be sufficient if the underlying cause remains untreated.
