Healthy Ways Of Losing And Gaining Weight / Question
Published: October 19, 2001
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I'm 16 years old, 5'9" and 116 pounds. I realize that I am under weight and that I need to gain a lot. I eat three meals a day and usually fit all the chambers of the food pyramid very well. I am concerned because my BMI (Body Mass Index) is only 17.1 and I don't seem to be gaining any weight. What should I do? Do I have a serious health risk or should I just keep doing what I've been doing?
Signed: Underweight, But Need To Gain
Dear Underweight, But Need To Gain,
If you used the Body-Mass calculator from Appropriate Height and Weight then you may have noticed that TeenHealthFX recommends that for BMI's under 19, you should see a doctor or a nutritionist.
A BMI of 17.1 does not automatically imply that you have a serious health risk, it is just that your weight is not where it should be. Your doctor will look at many factors when determining a healthful weight for you like your health history, pubertal stage, sex, exercise level, eating habits and other risk factors.
Provided that you are eating healthy portions your eating habits sound appropriate. After being evaluated by a doctor or nutritionist they may make some suggestions to change your diet in order to help you maintain a suitable weight. At this point do not make any radical changes in your diet until you have consulted with a health professional.
If you would like to be seen at the Adolescent/Young Adult Center for Health in Morristown, New Jersey, you can call 973.889.6350 for an appointment.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
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