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Does being underweight affect Mental Health?

There are many different factors that contribute to underweight such as genetics or improper metabolism. A common eating disorder known as anorexia nervosa. People with this disorder have an intense fear of being overweight and a loss of appetite.

People who are underweight are obsessed with staying skinny or maintaining a certain weight that they think is the “beauty standard” but end up overdoing it. The source for this problem is varied but social media is believed to be the most detrimental since it is what makes the majority of people so strict about looks and their physical appearances. Compulsive under-eating can derive from childhood trauma or bullying that lead to a series of insecurities and body image issues. Because of that, many people resort to different methods to lose weight, assuming that it will improve their mood and happiness.

Research has shown that a significant chunk of skinny people battle with depression and low confidence on a daily basis. Most people think that underweight has a bigger cognitive impact on women but the Seoul National University of Medicine revealed that both men and women suffering from underweight or a specific eating disorder are equally affected by negative thoughts and mental health problems.

Underweight causes a wide range of medical conditions and mental problems. Being underweight puts your health at risk, such as kidney diseases, anemia, delayed growth, weakened immune system, irregular periods, hair loss, and etc.

However, it is important to know that underweight is treatable. If you are struggling, talk to a doctor or a medical expert so they can give you an overall evaluation and help you plan how you can goal weight. Remember that maintaining a healthy weight is also essential for your mental health so here are some healthy ways to gain weight:

  • Use Growth Formula Weight Gain
  • Choose nutrient-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, whole-grain or dairy products and make them part of your everyday diet.
  • Try drinking high calorie smoothies and shakes.
  • Consider eating smaller meals throughout the day to increase your calorie intake.
  • Exercise can help you gain weight by building up your muscles and it can also stimulate your appetite.