Healthy Ways Of Losing And Gaining Weight / Question
Published: March 9, 2004
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I have an unusual problem. I'm too skinny! I am 13 and I weigh 75 pounds! I am also a wimp! I am not strong at all, my 10 year old brother is in better shape than me! Please tell me a safe way to gain weight and a little muscle
Signed: 13, Too Skinny, Want To Add Pounds
Dear 13, Too Skinny, Want To Add Pounds,
FX cannot make any diagnosis or judgment about your weight over the Internet, however, we do recommend that you see your doctor just to ease your mind and make sure everything is okay..
However, FX can tell you how to eat right and exercise safely, so, here goes:
As far as being a "wimp" and needing to gain muscle and some weight, we are going to offer you a simple solution - follow the "Food Pyramid" and eat on the high end of each category. For example, for the Breads, Cereal, Rice & Pasta, it says to eat 6 - 11 servings. Try to eat 11 servings. Do this for each category on the food pyramid. While doing this also start a workout program of aerobic activity 2 - 3 times per week and weight lifting and strengthening 2 - 3 times per week (see Best Time To Exercise).
TeenHealthFX feels for your situation and it is important to remember that your body is going through several physical changes. However, it is important to be satisfied with your body. Again, you should talk to your doctor about your concerns. He/she will be able to ease more of your worries and let you know what is normal and what is not normal.
Just an added note: When trying to gain or lose weight, it needs to be done in a healthy manner. This means that you should not try any diets to lose or gain like a high fat or high carbs diet. Also, do not take any supplements that may promise to increase muscle mass or give you more strength. These diets and supplements are not recommended.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
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