Definition

Causes

Several factors that might cause underweight include:

• Born with small body measurement and a low body mass index (BMI) due to hereditary factors
• High activity and diet speed metabolism
• Low financial status and a lack of adequate food might induce nutritional disorders
• Eating disorders due to therapeutic side effects
• Diseases that cause weight loss, such as:

• • Gastrointestinal disorders
  • Infections such as HIV/AIDS
  • Cancer
  • Lung disease
  • Diabetes mellitus
  • Thyroid gland disorders
  • Eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia nervosa
  • Anxiety problems
  • Severe stress causes depression
  • Dementia

Risk Factor

Individuals with prolonged diseases, a history of hospitalization, or advanced age are more susceptible to underweight conditions. The following increase the risk of underweight in children aged 6 to 59 months:

• Male child
• Diarrhea or tuberculosis infection
• A historical record of being delivered at home rather than in a medical facility
• Low maternal education
• Unemployed father
• Previously underweight parents

Furthermore, 10-15-year-old females are also at risk of being underweight. Alcohol and illegal drug addiction may increase the risk of low BMI.

Symptoms

Underweight people may experience extreme fatigue or frequent illnesses more frequently. A weakened immune system may be a symptom of being underweight. The lack of essential nutrients in the diet might lead to this condition.

Some of the health problems that could result from being underweight include:

• Thin or fall-out hair
• Dehydrated skin
• Dental problems
• Anemia (lack of red blood cells)
• Osteoporosis, particularly among the elderly population
• Menstrual cycle irregularities
• Infertility

Diagnosis

The body mass index (BMI) is the most accurate indicator for determining whether an individual's weight falls within the normal range, is below, or is excessive. The BMI is determined by dividing one's body weight in kilograms by the square of one's height in meters. The normal body mass index (BMI) range among Asian adults is 18.5 to 24.9. Thus, an individual is considered underweight if their body mass index (BMI) is below 18.5.

Generally, BMI is considered an indicator to determine if an individual is within a healthy weight range. Muscle mass and pregnancy are not considered in BMI estimates. An athlete might have a high BMI due to their significant muscle development. Individuals who belong to this category should seek medical advice to gain further information about their nutritional status.

Growth curves are commonly used to measure the weight of children. Growth curves are commonly used to measure the weight of children.

Management

Suppose you are fiscally stable and do not have any specific medical conditions to get balanced and nutritious food. You can analyze your daily activity levels and dietary habits in that case. Modify your daily intake based on your calorie demands, age, and daily physical activity level.

Consuming diverse foods that meet the body's necessary nutrients is crucial. It is essential to provide an adequate intake of calories to improve weight gain, protein for body repair and muscle development, and vitamins and minerals to maintain your health. The objective is to gradually increase body mass by consuming nutritious food.

Avoid consuming foods with high levels of sugar, saturated fat, and salt, such as cakes, fast food, and sweetened beverages. These foods may contribute to weight gain and elevate your risk of elevated blood cholesterol levels. 

Weight gain can be achieved by consuming frequent, modest quantities of food throughout the day. Opt for nutritious, high-calorie snacks such as cheese, almonds, milk-based smoothies, and dried fruit.

Several recommendations for healthily achieving weight gain include:

• Consume a daily intake of five or more servings of various fruits and vegetables
• Choose foods composed of potatoes, wheat, bread, rice, pasta, or other starchy carbohydrates
• Consume whole milk, specifically the full-fat variety, until you have regained the lost weight
• Consume protein-rich foods such as nuts, fish, eggs, and meat. Consuming two servings of fish in your diet every week is recommended
• Consume nutritious lipids, including avocado and olive oil
• Exercise regularly to increase appetite
• Consume six to eight glasses of fluids daily, but avoid drinking before meals to prevent feeling too full

Complications

Medical problems, including nutritional deficiencies, may result from being underweight. If you're underweight, it's probably because your diet isn't balanced. The nutrients your body requires to function correctly may be lacking.

Calcium is essential for the maintenance of healthy and strong bones. Insufficient calcium intake increases the risk of osteoporosis or experiencing bone loss in later life. Iron deficiency may lead to anemia (a deficiency of red blood cells), characterized by severe fatigue.

The following complications may develop in underweight individuals:

• Weakened muscular strength
• Cardiovascular diseases
• Decreased immunity against common colds, flu, and other infections
• Infertility or an increased risk of premature delivery
• Elevated mortality risk in early adulthood

Prevention

Maintaining a healthy weight requires several lifestyle changes, including eating well, exercising adequately, and watching calorie intake. Once you are diagnosed with a disease, see your doctor immediately for further medical treatment.

When to See a Doctor?

Visit your doctor to make sure you don't have any underlying medical conditions that could be causing your underweight condition if you've tried these weight gain methods and nothing has worked. A medical expert should be consulted for the treatment of a dietary disorder.

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