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AIBU?

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Original poster

To gain weight intentionally?

59 replies

Tooskinny · 24/06/2024 14:59

Anyone ever done it and felt good about the results?

I'm tall and skinny, always been slim. But at 37 and post kids am slimmer than ever with a BMI of 18.5. I'm struggling with my energy levels and needing to sleep a lot to feel human (9 hours). I think I'm starting to look haggard and I disappear when I turn to the side.

The thing is, my diet is excellent. All from scratch, minimal processed food. I eat dark chocolate every night and a glass of wine a few times per week. I don't feel I restrict anything so I'd have to intentionally add quite a bit which feels so counterintuitive. Plus maybe it'll all just pile on my stomach and I'll still look haggard...? I have daughters and am starting to feel uncomfortable about being so skinny.

I can't find anything online because all the dietary advice is tailored towards people who are overweight. Please no 'nice problem to have' - I'm starting to feel really self conscious about it.

OP posts:
Maryamlouise · 24/06/2024 15:06

I would say focus on strength training - it is fun, will build muscle and definition so you might still be skinny but also strong and I think you will start to feel better about your body for what it can do and not what it looks like. But could also be worth a chat to GP if you are losing weight and needing lots of sleep just to check no other issues

S0livagant · 24/06/2024 15:05

I'd add more nutrient dense foods and healthy animal fats. Eggs on buttery sourdough, avocado, cheese, 10% fat greek yoghurt, glass of whole milk, red meat.

loropianalover · 24/06/2024 15:04

OP there is definitely lots of info online about how to gain weight in a healthy way - plenty of people go through this due to illness, naturally slim, mental health etc etc etc.

here are the first two results when I googled ‘help to gain weight healthy’:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/expert-answers/underweight/faq-20058429

www.nhs.uk/live-well/healthy-weight/managing-your-weight/healthy-ways-to-gain-weight/

Underweight? Healthy tips for adding pounds

If you're underweight and not happy about it, try these tips to help you achieve your goal weight.

https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/expert-answers/underweight/faq-20058429

FriendlyNeighbourhoodAccountant · 24/06/2024 15:04

Have you thought about visiting the GP? They may have some good advice or be able to refer you to a nutritionist.

My younger brother was very self conscious about being skinny. He started with protein powder and creatine, trained with a personal trainer and focused on free weights at the gym. He built muscle and size rather than fat and feels much better about himself. He eats lots of protein and good carbs.

People understand fat shaming but "skinny shaming" is underestimated and it really makes people feel shit, hope you get sorted.

Huifen · 24/06/2024 15:04

I'm in a similar position - 38 with a BMI that hovers slightly below 18. I don't have any advice as I also feel like I eat well so interested in the replies as I feel I might be too thin.

longdistanceclaraclara · 24/06/2024 15:03

What are you eating?

SalmonWellington · 24/06/2024 15:01

Well, one question could be if you're deficient in something. Low iron or B12? Have you had a blood test recently?

Bruisername · 24/06/2024 15:00

Have you ever just done a quick calorie count of a typical day? You say you have always been slim but have you been losing weight recently?

MJqueen · 24/06/2024 15:00

I'm one of those people at the other end of the spectrum...

But, to gain weight in a healthy way, can you up your protein and carbs and do gym workouts to build muscle?