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UNDERWEIGHT
The term underweight refers to a human who is considered to be under a healthy weight. The definition is usually made with reference to the body mass index (BMI). Most consider individuals under 18.5 to be underweight, though some authorities use a higher value of 20. It is important to note that the BMI is a statistical estimate and some individuals classified as underweight may be perfectly healthy.
Problems
Underweight individuals generally have poor physical stamina and a weak immune system, leaving them open to infection. According to Robert E. Black of the Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, "Underweight status ... and micronutrient deficiencies also cause decreases in immune and non-immune host defences, and should be classified as underlying causes of death if followed by infectious diseases that are the terminal associated causes."[1] They are also at higher risk from heart disease, blood vessel disease, and osteoporosis[citation needed].
In women, being underweight can result in amenorrhoea (absence of periods) and possible complications during pregnancy.
Causes
The causes of being underweight can be:
Treatment
The treatment for an underweight individual is to increase the calorie intake so that more calories are consumed than are being used as energy. It is usually suggested weight training is also undertaken to increase muscle mass.
It is easier to increase caloric intake by drinking calories rather than eating calories. There are several high-calorie drinks available in supermarkets that dramatically supplement daily intake, even adding 350 Calories per six-ounce bottle.
Another simple method of increasing one's daily calories is to add high-calorie/high-fat condiments to foods or follow a meal with a simple snack. Good examples are:
- BBQ sauce
- Mayonnaise
- Butter
- Cream cheese
- Cheese
- Pudding
- Salad dressing
It can be discouraging for those with medical conditions that make it difficult to maintain a socially acceptable body weight. Just as there are people who suffer from a need to lose weight to attain a certain body image, there are underweight people who desperately want to gain weight to look "normal." Support them with encouraging words and with respect, rather than using statements such as, "You need to eat something." Very little does more damage to their self-image than to assume that they want to look that way and that is the first time anyone has had the guts to say something about gaining weight.
See also
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