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If you are underweight...

You may be one of those people who just eat and eat, but never put on weight. If so, you might have what is called a high metabolic rate. In other words, you're a very efficient 'energy burner'.

If you're underweight, start building up to a healthy body weight! Here's how you can do so:

  • Increase your total calorie intake by eating more.
  • Avoid overeating. Instead, eat more frequently throughout the day. Have breakfast, lunch, dinner and hearty snacks in between.
  • Always eat a well-balanced diet as shown by the Food Guide Pyramid
  • Choose nutrient dense foods ie those that are highly nutritious, such as milk and egg white.
  • If you wish to take a high-protein diet or weight gainers, discuss the matter first with a doctor, nutritionist or dietitian.
  • Exercise regularly. Yes, exercise! It gives you a better appetite for food. You'll find yourself taking in more energy than exercise burns up.
  • Get enough sleep. Sleep saves energy!
DO YOU HAVE AN EATING DISORDER?


There are a couple of undesirable reasons for being underweight. Dieting unhealthily is one. The other could be an eating disorder -- anorexia or bulimia?

Anorexia is when you starve yourself because you only see yourself as overweight. Bulimia is when you eat huge amounts of food at a time, only to vomit or purge it out after that.

If you have an eating disorder, it could be because you have low self-esteem and a need to control your own body. You could be facing pressure from your family, friends or teachers. Magazines, advertisements or movies that continually show thin, glamorous-looking people may influence your idea of perfection.

Eating disorders are extremely dangerous and can sometimes lead to death. So if you have this problem, or if you know anybody who does, go see a doctor immediately.

+ If you are OVERWEIGHT | UNDERWEIGHT

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