Description While being underweight may seem an enviable trait by many, serious conditions can result from unnatural, excessive thinness. Being underweight may also be a sign of an underlying ailment or condition requiring attention.
Symptoms and Signs: A low body weight is the defining factor of being underweight. Menstrual irregularities and low estrogen levels are signs of an underweight problem in women.
Causes: Being underweight may result from Crohn's disease and other colon disorders, chronic diarrhea, diverticulitis, hyperthyroidism, intestinal parasites, malabsorption problem, some forms of cancer, and ulcerative colitis. Chemotherapy treatment, excess stress, surgery, significant loss, and trauma can all induce a loss of appetite, leading to weight loss. People with AIDS often experience a condition known as wasting syndrome, where body weight continues to be lost as the condition evolves. Intense exercise, particularly in marathon runners, can also lead to an underweight problem. Some people are naturally more thin than others and may have a more active metabolism that reinforces their weight state. In this case, being labeled as medically "underweight" may be perfectly normal. Being underweight may also be a sign of an underlying ailment or condition, particularly if the loss occurs quickly and without intent. Anorexia nervosa, bulimia, and other eating disorders can lead to situations of rapid weight loss.
What to Expect: Nutritional deficiencies may accompany being underweight, further complicating other ailments and conditions. This situation becomes more serious in children and the elderly. A malnourished, underweight child may experience growth and development problems while elderly people require a constant nutrient intake to compensate for any malabsorption problem. Underweight women with menstrual irregularities often find it difficult to conceive later in life. The low estrogen levels also negatively affect bone density, which can lead to osteoporosis.
Remedies If you are already thin or below average weight, yet feel you need to lose weight, fear gaining weight, or fear becoming fat, you may be dealing with an eating disorder. Consult with your dietician, naturopath, or other health practitioner to discuss the situation and determine a viable course of action. If you unintentionally lose more than ten pounds (4.5kg), it is essential you seek medical attention. If a naturally thin physique is simply part of who you are, being "underweight" is likely not much of a concern. Ensure you are eating a healthy, balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and organic protein sources.
Foods Eat meals with a higher monounsaturated/polyunsaturated/EFA fat content. These beneficial fats have a higher calorie content and your body may store the energy in the form of body fat. Add unrefined, cold-pressed olive oil to salads. Eat more fish, nuts, and avocados. Avoid most animal products that are high in undesirable saturated fats and stay way from poor quality hydrogenated fats/trans-fatty acids found in low priced commercial oils and countless processed foods ranging from cookies to corn chips and salad dressings. For more information, see Fat Facts.
Therapies, Healing Aids, and More An exercise/weight program will help you build muscle mass. Consult with your fitness trainer, naturopath, or other health practitioner to outline an appropriate program for your needs. A healthy diet will ensure your body receives the necessary vitamins, minerals, amino acids, enzymes, and other elements to function properly. Organic fruits and vegetables, whole grains, essential fats, and organic protein sources can be combined in a number of complementary ways. Consult with your dietician, naturopath, or other health practitioner to outline a menu appropriate for your needs.
Vitamins A multivitamin may be needed to supplement the nutrients you may not be receiving in your diet. Take a natural multivitamin with chelated minerals. Ensure it is free of additives, colourants, preservatives, and sugar. Liquid multivitamins are also available for easier absorption.
Actions and Remedy Listings
See also Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia, Crohn's Disease, Diarrhea, Malabsorption Syndrome, Osteoporosis, Poor Appetite
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