Underweight

 UNDERWEIGHT

General Causes 

Extremes in underweight is just like  an overweight could be problematic.  General malnutrition and excessive thinness  is usually associated with poor living conditions or long term disease. A person who i more than 10% below the average weight for height and age is considered under weight; someone who is 20% or more below the average weight has for cause significant health concerns. Physiologic and psychologic effects may occur, especially among young children. Their resistance to infection is lowered, their general health is poor, and their strength is reduced.

Underweight is associated with conditions that cause general malnutrition, including the following

Wasting disease: long-term diser with infection and fever that raise the BMR

Poor food intake: diminished food intake that results from psychologic factors that cause a person to refuse to eat, of appetite, or personal poverty loss of and limited available food supply

Malabsorption: poor nutrient absorption that results from chronic diarrhea, a diseased gastrointestinal tract, the excessive use of laxatives, or drug nutrient interactions

Hormonal imbalance: hyperthyroidism or a variety of other hormonal imbalances that increase the caloric needs of the body Energy imbalance: condition that results from greatly increased physical activity without a corresponding increase in food or a lack of available food supply Poor living situation: an unhealthy home environment that results in irregular and inadequate meals,where eating is considered unimportant, and where an indifferent attitude toward food exists

Special nutrition care to rebuild body tissues and to regain health is necessary for underweight and under nourished patients. Food plans should be adapted to each person's unique situation, whether it involves his or her personal needs, living situation, economic needs, or any underlying disease. The dietary goal, in accordance with each person's tolerance, is to increase energy and nutrient intake, with adherence to the following needs:

High-caloric diet: above the standard requirement for that individual High protein: to rebuild tissues

High carbohydrate to provide the primary energy source in an easily digested form

 Moderate fat: to provide essential fatty acids and add energy without exceeding tolerance limits

Good sources of vitamins and minerals: provided by a variety of nutrient-dense foods and dietary supplements when individual deficiencies require them

A variety of foods attractively served may help to revive the appetite and increase the desire to eat more. Nourishing meals and snacks should be spread through out the day and should include favorite foods often. A basic aim is to help build good food habits so that improved nutritional status and weight can be main tained. This rehabilitation process requires creative counseling for the patient and the family along with practical guides and support. 

Ideal weight gain includes both lean and fat tissue. To gain muscle, physical exercise must be part of the treatment. Resistance training increases lean tissue and, in turn, boosts appetite. A variety of weight-lifting and strength-training programs can be designed, depending on the desires of the individual, and they should be encouraged as an important part of healthy weight gain.