Think thin, think again

Think thin, think again

In the last few decades, American beauty standards have shifted dramatically. Before the 1920’s, normal to overweight women were considered the most beautiful. Since then, the media encouraged the idea of “the thinner, the better”. But does thinner necessarily mean healthier? Nutritionists are beginning to see that underweight women have just as many health risks as those who are obese. Healthy weight is measured using one’s Body Mass Index, or BMI, which calculates body fat based on height and weight. To calculate BMI, divide your weight in pounds by your height in inches squared. Multiply this number by 703 to get your BMI. A BMI below 18.5 is considered underweight, 18.5 to 24.9 is normal, 25 to 29.9 is overweight, and 30 or above is obese.

Underweight women have increased likelihood for health problems including weakened immune system, osteoporosis, anemia, infertility, and reduced longevity. In some cases, being underweight is genetic, but other times it may indicate a medical condition or be the result of malnutrition or an eating disorder. Despite the cause, it is important that underweight women see their doctors and modify eating habits in order to achieve a normal, healthier weight.

Don’t go running for the junk food quite yet! It is important to gain weight healthily, not with empty calories and trans-fats. Maintain a healthy, balanced diet, adding a few extra calories and meals everyday. One could eat five or six small meals each day and in order to gain a few extra pounds. Nutritionists also advise eating adding five hundred to one thousand calories beyond those needed for daily energy. Some suggest adding starches and high-carbohydrate foods, beans, rice, and potatoes, and dried fruit, to one’s diet to boost calories. Also, women who are underweight due to vigorous exercise could switch to a more moderate routine. While working to achieve a normal, optimal weight, strive to be consistent and patient, as diet, exercise, and weight is a healthy balance.