How to Gain Weight with Least Amount of Money for an Underweight Person?

iridiumstem on 24/02/2015 - 17:42
Last edited 26/02/2015 - 19:23

Hello Ozbargainers,

This question is not for me, but for my girlfriend who's BMI is 17.1.
I know that BMI usually don't tell the full story, but it has gotten me worried. We've been forcing ourselves to hit the gym but we've came to conclusions that calorie intake might be an issue as well. To be honest, as a blob of fat, I am partially jealous of her fast metabolism in a way, though I've heard bad things about having a fast metabolism.

So what would be the recommended way of fattening my girlfriend up for this Thanksgiving or Christmas even? (this sentence has been approved by my gf, so it's fine I suppose?)

I've tried to feed her stuff, but as with most petite people, she doesn't eat much and gets sick easily with lots of food.

I've heard decent things from people about protein shakes/meal supplement and how it might help to some extent, but I've never bought one myself.

Are there any recommendations for my girlfriend?

EDIT:
This is from a comment that I've wrote in this post, but I think I might add it here as well.

My girlfriend and I both have agreed that she could benefit from gaining weight. She have been losing weight recently, and we believe that this might be causing her immunity problems (though this is just a speculation from correlation more or less).

EDIT 2:

Thank you guys so much for these many responses. I read them all and I wanted to say a big thank you from both me and my girlfriend. I have discovered a truly marvellous people contributing to this, by being sincere or trolling, and I want to thank each and every one of you by mentioning your names, which this margin is too narrow to contain.

I am thinking about keep doing what we are doing, hitting the gym and doing weight training. Though I think I might make her go little bit less intensely, since I think, from your comments, I have been pushing her bit too much.

In terms of what we might do, I will come back to this post tomorrow, I've had a long long day (9am to 9pm with everything placed everywhere, bike rides from one end to another in 5 minutes) and so did my gf. We've exhausted ourselves with some intensive time table. Though sincerely, I thank you all for the comments.

EDIT 3:

Thank you guys once again for the replies you've given me on this. Since the GP that we visit is not free this week, I will definitely make her make a vist, at least to get her results from the blood tests that she've done.

I've read through all the suggestions, well at the very least almost all of them. Definitely I will try to walk her gently towards eating more, mostly healthy stuff and little bit of junk food (because them chocolates and them ice creams, if she buys some, I might be able to have some as well). I will have to learn how to make treats for her/resist the temptation to make some for me.

I will definitely take things slowly and gently (unlike what my younger brother told me, "If you can walk properly after your leg day, you are not doing it right!") After all, the last thing I'd want is her to turn into blob of fat like me or stay underweight and be unhealthy (well from GP's suggestions, it was implying this) because the routine is too tough.

Thank you guys so much on this. I will definitely revisit this post to see if there are any new suggestions.

Though if she turns really healthy, I will look more unhealthy than I am now. Also she will be all buff and strong… Damn my dilema.

Health & Beauty

Comments

  • bobbified on 24/02/2015 - 21:11
    +2

    She have been losing weight recently

    If she is losing weight rapidly, perhaps it might be time to visit a doctor for tests.. Rapid weight loss could be a symptom of something else…

    • iridiumstem on 24/02/2015 - 21:39
      +2

      Parasite? i.e. pragn… Oh lord, that would be… unexpected and I'd have to change so much in my planning. (Btw, it's a joke from an article I've read. Of course pragnancy is something valued.)

      My gf apparently went to see a doctor and the doctor apparently said it's likely to be her being underweight that's causing her to get sick easier (after blood tests and such). It's really hard for us to change her diet completely because her mother is very stubborn and has her own idea of "healthy".

      • secondstory on 25/02/2015 - 00:28
        +1

        I suggest a second/third opinion. There are a number of significant health issues that cause weight loss and it's better to be safe than sorry.

  • samthebear on 24/02/2015 - 21:15
    +2

    Maybe go to the doctor's or a nutritionists? If gaining lean mass is her aim then definitely look to going to a nutritionist and/or a doctor to check out her metabolism.
    If she has always been like this then nothing is probably wrong but if she started to lose weight suddenly over the last year it could be an indication of an underlying health problem. I'm just throwing this out there since you mentioned her getting sick more often.

    Either way, you (and your girlfriend) would probably benefit the most by getting it checked out by a doctor and/or nutritionist (as opposed to asking the internets).

  • beaver2233 on 24/02/2015 - 21:16

    edit: never mind.

  • Hipmumma on 24/02/2015 - 21:33
    +1

    bananas, add cream, butter, avocado, eggs, cheese, crackers with the most cals., milos, milk drinks. what foods does she like? meat eater, vego?
    quick fix is bad fats but that's not really good for her health

  • [Deactivated] on 24/02/2015 - 21:34
    +4

    Lol, the weekly coles specials should fatten her up. Most of the catalogue specials are high in sugar, oil and salt anyway.

  • digitalbargain on 24/02/2015 - 21:50

    slightly off topic but a good perspective on diet: http://www.ted.com/talks/sandra_aamodt_why_dieting_doesn_t_u…

  • onlyletters on 24/02/2015 - 21:57
    +2

    Peanut butter before bed.. srs

    • lenlynn on 28/02/2015 - 08:16

      Ooh. Nutella! A big spoonful after dinner!!

  • strangeloops66 on 24/02/2015 - 22:11

    Nevermind, was beaten to it and missed it with an initial cursory glance over the comments.

  • [Deactivated] on 24/02/2015 - 22:22
    +3

    @umamandy, don't have any advice or suggestion to give, other than to say, be kind and patient with yourself :)

    • iridiumstem on 24/02/2015 - 22:24
      +5

      You really are a sweet person. I will tell her that so I get all the credit ;)
      Thanks bro. ^_^b

  • GnarlyKnuckles on 24/02/2015 - 22:36
    +5

    A few things…
    It sounds like there must be some abnormality contributing to the weight-loss/ inability to gain weight. It could be something as simple as a raging tape-worm infestation, or it could be a complex absorption disorder; you need to get thoroughly checked out, before there's permanent damage.
    Re diet, I suggest carbohydrates, and lots of them (pending medical advice, of course). Loading up on a lot of fat could have adverse consequences re things like cholesterol, and loading up on sugar will be bad for your teeth, and will not be pleasant if you don't have a 'sweet-tooth', among other potential problems associated with excess sugar intake.
    So I suggest lots of carbs. Of course there's also some potential problems even with this, I'm just suggesting it's probably preferable to going way overboard on sugar, or fat, or both.
    Also, consider trying to stack on some muscle. That is, do a 'bulking up'-type exercise regime; rather than an 'aerobic fitness' type one. I realise this type of weight-gain is not attributable to storing fat, but it will nonetheless have some benefits in this particular case; i.e. where there seems to be an almost complete inability to convert food ingested, in the form of stored fat.

    • iridiumstem on 25/02/2015 - 00:14

      I have been taking my girlfriend to gym and have been forcing her to do some forms of weight training, like squat, deadlift and bench press from routines I've found on Windows Phone Apps (I know I should get a personal trainer and get him/her to help us but, it's slightly too costly for us). It's just that I find her body to be really skinny (I really am a lazy person, when it comes to body), so skinny that I am worried that she's not going to gain muscle but just wear her body out.

      Maybe I am wrong, but I really don't want to risk that. Doing weight training is hard, I simply don't want it to be a waste for my girlfriend.

      • GnarlyKnuckles on 25/02/2015 - 01:34

        "…to do some forms of weight training, like squat, deadlift and bench press"

        Great, this is exactly the type of thing I was alluding to. Only every second day (to allow for muscle repair/'building' during the off day), and it needn't be for a long session each time; even just a few minutes, as long as she takes each muscle group being worked on pretty much to 'exhaustion'. This type of regime might also help to increase appetite. Be sure to 'spot' her very carefully/diligently though for anything involving actual weights, to ensure there's no mishaps. And don't make the weights too heavy; acheive exhaustion via reps, not by making the weights so heavy she can only do about 3 reps before exhausting the relevant muscles!

        "I know I should get a personal trainer and get him/her to help us…"

        I really don't think so. Those dudes are great/serve a definite need, but generally they're for peeps who want to 'take their body to the next level' (i.e. body-builders), or lose weight/get fit, I think. You'd be better off going to a qualified health professional who specialises more in exactly what you need (weight gain to correct being underweight), once (then maybe again in 12 weeks or whatever for a follow-up), and getting them to prescribe a weight-gain diet designed to promote caloric conversion to stored fat, in conjunction with an exercise regime designed to put on some muscle. An appropriate dietition should be able to do that. Tell the dietition that money is tight, so you need them to formulate a long-term plan with you at that single initial session, as well as telling you how to monitor the progress of the plan. Don't worry, they won't judge you for doing that, they will probably actually appreciate your honesty. You might have to pay a bit for a good, long session with them, but it will be a one-off cost; which would in all likelihood be very well worth it.
        I guess I should mention that while I do have a medical background/qualifications, I have no qualifications/only limited knowledge re 'weight-training' and the like; so if I've said something wrong in that respect in this post, and someone on here with qualifications in that field can correct it, that would be excellent and I would absolutely be humbly grateful. I'm just providing my opinion on that stuff, based on my limited knowledge in the field.
        Best of luck with everything you two, and I'm sorry I referred to you above as 'she' a couple of times "Az's GF"; I cannae see your nick ("Umami"/sommat like that?) on the 'preview' page I'm currently on unfortunately!

        • umamandy on 25/02/2015 - 07:48
          +1

          Hahah its ok. :)
          Thank you so much for the comprehensive advice. I'll probably go talk to someone on Friday. :D

        • Millikano on 25/02/2015 - 14:34
          +1

          I reckon you're on the money with the weight resistance training too. Anything that uses a lot of muscle groups is great, so the best are squats, deadlifts, bench press, overhead press etc.

          A couple of years ago I was struggling to increase my weight beyond 70kg (180cm male). Exercising with reasonably heavy reps with the above exercises (3 sets of 5 heavy weights after warming up with lighter weights) 3 times a week, drinking a lot of milk (and protein shakes, probably 1.5L a day worth combined) and eating slightly larger meals including pastas and rice dishes, I managed to reach 80kg within 6 months.

          Weight lifting takes a while to adjust to, but once you get used to the routine you will become strong pretty quickly, and I found that I had more energy in day to day life, got sick less, was less stressed, and looked a lot better.

          Muscle weighs a lot more than fat too, and if you want a ghetto power-booty that impresses the parents then squats are the best way!

          Hope that supports what GnarlyKnuckles is saying. Good luck umamandy.

      • Moj0 on 25/02/2015 - 16:44
        +1

        As mentioned above, load up on carbs for ur calories, low GI carbs - rice, pasta, wholemeal breads… For fats, use fats that are rich in Omega 3, 6 like Olive Oil, Coconut Oil(altho its not the most cost productive but u may only use 1 tablespoon at a time), snack on nuts like Almonds between meals. And of course keep up the min protein intake for target body weight. I understand wot its like to not be able to gain weight easily, been thru it. I ended up taking up bodybuilding and dieting(bulking) over 16yrs ago and eventually gained weight. When i first had a bulking diet plan written up for me, i was shocked at the amount of food i had to eat, i could not possibly eat that amount of food, i tried and felt sick after eating but i eventually added more calories bit at a time and got to my target weight. When i finally got used to eating that amount of food, i couldnt go without eating every 3-4hrs. Our body is very adaptable.

        Im assuming that she doesnt have sum medical condition and rather just a super high metabolism. Perhaps speak to some doctors and also guys/girls at the gym that are competitors/serious trainers. They may be able to give her sum tips or even write her a diet plan.

        Good luck…

  • [Deactivated] on 24/02/2015 - 23:00

    Does she do any cardio? Running in particular? Like outdoors…

    If she can do 10km without too much an effort or if she can stretch it out to a half marathon, I would be too worried.

    Most petite people that are unfit will probably struggle to make it past 3-5km. If she is in that group of people, getting to a half marathon mark she will naturally want to eat more to progress further as she'll crave the additional food to go further.

    • GnarlyKnuckles on 24/02/2015 - 23:21

      I would not recommend this type of exercise to an underweight person trying to get up to a healthy body-weight. It could actually be counter-productive/ make things worse.

      • [Deactivated] on 25/02/2015 - 12:47
        -1

        Care to explain your reasoning?

        Running is very good for losing and gaining weight, in both instances it encourages a higher intake of carbs. With fatties it tends to discourage people from eating too much fat and meat as it makes the running feel miserable.

        Likewise for people trying to gain weight, you need sufficient fuel intake (carbs) which can promote weight gain as again it is absolutely miserable to run without any energy.

        The goal is to run longer distances comfortably, and not be on the verge of passing out at the end.

        • Scrooge McDuck on 25/02/2015 - 13:59
          +2

          I'd suggest that she not get caught up on what type of exercise to do and just focus on eating more.

          The problem sounds like a general deficiency of nutrition.

        • [Deactivated] on 25/02/2015 - 20:14
          -1

          @Scrooge McDuck:

          It provides a reason to eat rather than just sitting there stuffing your face.

          Stuffing your face might be fine for some but is largely not sustainable in the long term.

        • GnarlyKnuckles on 03/03/2015 - 03:02

          @Scrooge McDuck:
          What the problem "sounds like to you" and what it actually is may be very different things Scrooge… Thus, it might be best for the person in question to seek the direct advice of a professional in the field, who can analyse the particular case with all the relevant facts in hand, after direct consultation; rather than suggesting that exercise be ignored, or conversely, that 10K marathons be embarked upon.

        • Scrooge McDuck on 06/03/2015 - 14:03

          @GnarlyKnuckles:

          What the problem "sounds like to you" and what it actually is may be very different things Scrooge…

          Didn't you infer that from the whole "sounds like" thing? I mean, that was the point.

          Thus, it might be best for the person in question to seek the direct advice of a professional in the field, who can analyse the particular case with all the relevant facts in hand, after direct consultation;

          I already supported that.

          rather than suggesting that exercise be ignored, or conversely, that 10K marathons be embarked upon.

          Ummm, I didn't suggest that. That's what I'm suggesting against.

        • GnarlyKnuckles on 06/03/2015 - 14:07

          @Scrooge McDuck:

          'I'd suggest that she not get caught up on what type of exercise to do and just focus on eating more.

          That seems like a suggestion that the issue of exercise essentially be ignored, to me. Humble apologies if that is a misinterpretation.

  • airzone on 24/02/2015 - 23:31

    Angel food cake. Eaten off the arse.

  • secondstory on 25/02/2015 - 00:34
    +1

    Slowly increase meal portions to expand stomach capacity a little bit at a time since that sounds like an issue. Consume a small amount of soft drink with meals (gives you a little extra sugar, the sweetness can help increase appetite a little and at the same time can often help ease that 'sick' feeling you get when you eat too much oils) but not all the time - it's important to stay healthy too.

    When looking at weight loss and inability to gain weight I would definitely consider mental health too. Stress can do this without even realising you're stressed/anxious/depressed, as some things are just taken as 'lifestyle'.

    Since this is ozbargain it might not be a great option but if you can fit it into your lifestyle, eating out and becoming part-time foodies might do the trick while having fun. If you get an Entertainment Book for your local area it might be a good motivation and help you find new places plus you get the discount/deals.

    Italian cuisine is a good way to go imo.

    Goodluck :)

  • This Guy on 25/02/2015 - 03:01

    Get a bigger plate and lighter cutlery.

    The bigger plate makes meals look smaller to encourage you to eat more.
    http://www.abc.net.au/science/articles/2013/01/15/3669416.ht…

    Using lighter cutlery encourages picking up more food as you are used to picking up a certain weight.
    http://www.abc.net.au/science/articles/2011/08/16/3293935.ht…

    Lighter cutlery also makes some foods seem higher quality.
    http://booksandjournals.brillonline.com/content/journals/10.…

    Cutlery size depends on foods. Dr Karl’s states people eat more ice-cream with bigger spoons but eat less dinner with bigger forks. I haven't heard or read much about cutlery size elsewhere. Cutlery weight seems to be more important.

    Similarly, mix fatty/protein drinks in short stubby glasses (you under-estimate how much you've put in) and drink from glasses curving out, like a schooner (drink looks fuller for longer).
    http://www.abc.net.au/science/articles/2012/12/18/3656200.ht…

    If you guys eat with food on your laps it might help to get light weight plates and eat from a table or tv tray. I assume the weight of crockery rested on your lap could have a similar effect as folk weight.

    Before you go out and replace all of your tableware consider using plastic plates and forks for a week to see if any of this works for you.

    It also sounds like you are eating out less. Consider distracting yourself while eating by focusing on a conversation/tv/book instead of your food.

  • mirridon on 25/02/2015 - 04:54

    I was in the same boat. I was a uni student and weighed 62kgs at age 19. I went to 67kg and just got stuck, couldn't get any heavier. I started counting macro's/calories and that's when I put on weight.

    The cheapest way was with Coles Pasta, the 60 cent bags from coles, no sauce, no meat. I ate one of those every day. I then ate a lot of nuts, unsalted, cheapest I could find. I then forced myself to eat my regular daily foods, breakfast, lunch and dinner.

    I just cut pasta and peanuts in when I could.

    I got to 80KG and was a little too big so I cut down to 76kg.

  • CrazyMexican on 25/02/2015 - 09:11

    Fast food diet :B

  • moop on 25/02/2015 - 09:13
    +1

    Haven't ever posted on the forums, but thought I'd comment on this. I recently lost a bunch of weight too! Hurray for moving out of home and not having to follow my mother's 'healthy' Asian options. My BMI is now at 16.3 - I actually feel healthier than ever. If anything I've been sick fewer times than before and the doctors report confirms I'm doing great.

    Tell your gf to forget about the number on the scales, eat healthy, exercise and if she's feeling fine, then that's all that should matter. :)

  • anonymous01 on 25/02/2015 - 10:00

    She can have mine :).

    The best way would be to eat more calories than you burn, while also being careful not to eat too much unhealthy food. Being skinny is still better than shoving unhealthy food in to yourself. Only few things come to mind can help you get fat faster, Sugar + Fat while being a couch potato, but this is unhealthy approach. Is she very active person? Try eating healthy fats like Avocados etc. Sorry can't think of any healthy way to gain weight. She may need to go to the unhealthy territory temporarily, but be careful. Some people get sucked and stuck there, and they stay there forever, becoming fat and fat and fat and fat.

  • Azn310 on 25/02/2015 - 10:19
    +1

    You want more bass, is that it?

    More carbs will surely help to gain weight, the bad weights aka fat

  • esty on 25/02/2015 - 10:47

    Complex carbs and protiens. I used to weigh 60kg, im now 87kg@186cm.

  • woz on 25/02/2015 - 10:47

    I'd have them make a comprehensive blood report. On behalf of fat people everywhere, you have something we need, and it'd be worth trillions if they could isolate it. I think I'd even be prepared to be quite ill for a couple of years if it'd help me lose some lard.

    What you're describing isn't what I consider a regular GP ailment. I'd be ditching the GP and getting a referral to a specialist. Or lots of specialists. Your condition sounds complicated and I'd hate to think what could happen if you were misdiagnosed.

    And just to finish off my ludicrous post, has anyone ever performed reverse liposuction? It'd only alter appearance, and wouldn't make you one iota healthier, but I wonder if any practitioner is crazy enough to do it.

    • Scrooge McDuck on 25/02/2015 - 14:12

      She just needs to eat more.

      Have you tried eating less?

      • woz on 25/02/2015 - 14:31
        +2

        Guilty as charged. As a parent of a disabled child, there's a lot of stress-eating involved. I wish it would manifest itself as stress-exercise, but it doesn't seem to work that way for me.

        If coffee and chocolate were banned, I'd be a complete basket case.

  • nadan on 25/02/2015 - 10:51

    Do a search on GOMAD, it stand for "Gallon OFF MILK A DAY" and incorporate some compound exercises with it and you will gain weight in a very short period of time.

    • ilikeradiohead on 25/02/2015 - 16:05

      It was stated earlier that she has mild lactose intolerance.

  • rompastompa on 25/02/2015 - 11:10
    +5

    I know what's happening. AznMitch is the bird.

  • JohnHowardsEyebrows on 25/02/2015 - 11:28

    Home brand soft drinks from Woolies. 75c for 1.25l of sugary badness, will ensure you burn not an ounce of that fat you consume.

  • ProjectZero on 25/02/2015 - 11:29
    +2

    So what would be the recommended way of fattening my girlfriend up for this Thanksgiving or Christmas even?

    Lol…. sorry when I read this, I thought you were turning cannibal…

    I think you're better off getting her to gain a bit of lean mass.

    Fact: muscle weighs more then fat.

    She won't have to be bulked up and get muscular (lol), she will just look slim and toned instead of just having fat (Been fat my whole life until recently, having useless fat instead of lean mass is no fun).

    Basically, don't look at BMI, see a professional to get a biosig to measure body fat percentage and see what the pro says. If she is fine in terms of body fat percentage, it should be a problem. You're better off getting some advice from a professional then asking random strangers on a forum, no offence to anyone.

    P.S. not a PT, just a guy who has been to one and have loss weight and gotten healthier because of it.

    • ProjectZero on 25/02/2015 - 14:35

      Errr…..

      If she is fine in terms of body fat percentage, it should be a problem.

      That should have been a "shouldn't"…

  • Lucky13 on 25/02/2015 - 11:50

    Its just the way she is shes probably just got a good metabolism. Just eat well and exercise and you'll be exactly the way you're meant to be

  • Blinkenlights on 25/02/2015 - 12:00
    +1

    Hello, my suggestion is a glass of "tigers milk" - my mum used to feed us this - in the morning.
    The recipe, as best I remember it: Glass of milk, tablespoon or so of brewers yeast, tablespoon or so of wheatgerm, a raw egg, a banana (or part of a banana if the volume gets too much) and some honey to taste.
    It is all put in a liquidizer and becomes quite heavy. The brewers yeast just totally overpowers the other flavours, but it has value, and you get accustomed to it. While you need to use good ingredients, they all last for a while and will cost you little per day.

    No doubt I am about to get heaps of flak from people for daring to suggest that someone eat raw egg, but hey that is the recipe.

  • CheapManBuns on 25/02/2015 - 12:03
    +2

    The way to gain weight is not to blindly eat 'unhealthy foods'.
    If you eat 3 pieces of KFC and get full you'll still be skinny.

    1. Go onto http://iifym.com/tdee-calculator/ and calculate your TDEE (total calories burned during a day)
    2. Eat 200-500 calories above your TDEE. Eating exactly at your TDEE will mean you only maintain your current weight.
      e.g. If her TDEE is 2200 calories a day, aim for 2400-2700.
      *Eating above 500 calories will likely mean you put on significant amounts of fat.

    Eating more calories than your burn = weight gain.

    Mass gain shakes / Peanut butter / Bread are all high calorie foods you can chuck in.

  • moocher on 25/02/2015 - 12:09

    Like your girlfriend, I have a similar BMI and fast metabolism.

    Firstly, does she have regular medical check-ups? If there's nothing the doctor can see that's affecting her immunity, perhaps all she needs to focus on is a regular exercise routine, eating well, not being too stressed and getting enough sleep….and looking on the positive side!

    The advantage of having this body type in terms of working out is you don't need to work off the fat before you can physically see results (even if you only weight train once a week, you'll see results within months). Some advice that my gym instructors have given me:

    • Don't eat junk food/high fat food to gain weight. Just because someone is slim doesn't mean they are immune from heart problems, high cholestrol, high blood pressure, diabetes etc
    • Do some cardio workouts but don't overdo it. Try to have a mix of cardio and non-cardio. Offset cardio workouts with protein shakes to not 'disappear' :) (I currently use Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Whey, but there are lots of other brands)

    Joining a gym has helped me to be disciplined - find one that offers a wide variety of classes. Some are actually really fun and many ladies enjoy them e.g. latin aerobics, zumba , pilates, boxing etc.

    Edit: By eating well, I mean eat a wide variety of foods (dairy, vegies, meat, fruit, seafood, legumes, nuts, carbs), everything in moderation but less of the high fat/high sugar stuff. Unless there is medical reason to avoid a certain group of foods…

  • AG_ACT on 25/02/2015 - 12:28

    Just mentioning it one more time, please ensure that the doctor has fully exhausted any possibility of Hyperthyroidism.

    About fattening up, I'd suggest increasing quantity rather that eating rubbish.

  • lenlynn on 25/02/2015 - 12:35
    +1

    Asians tend to be smaller and it's more difficult for us to gain weight. How about gradually increasing your serving size of every meal (esp carbs)?

    Hopefully you will eventually get used to eating bigger meals and gain weight. My weight had been about 43kg for like ten years and it has increased to about 46kg the last 7 years after I moved here and increased my meal size. You are taller than me though.

    Might be worth taking regular blood tests to confirm nothing is wrong though. I believe a lower BMI is alright (BMI of 23 would be unhealthy for an Asian compared to about 25 for a Caucasian - we should have a lower BMI) but not if you keep falling ill.

  • calturk on 25/02/2015 - 12:36
    +2

    Hi,

    So I'm a male who has historically been quite skinny (180cm, 68kg) but over time I've been able to gain weight. Most recently I gained 6kg (I'm now 76kg) in about 4 months and I have a few tips that may help.

    1) You need to figure out how many calories a person at your gf's weight/height should be taking daily, and then get to a point where she is regularly eating 200-300 extra calories on top of that each day. You can use a TDEE (Total Daily Energy Expenditure) calculator like this one: http://iifym.com/tdee-calculator. At the end of the day it's simple math - if you take in more energy than you use, it will stay on as weight.
    2) You need to track your calories religiously each day. The only way you can ensure 100% that you're making your calorie count is to know how many calories you've eaten. I used an app called MyFitnessPal which is really useful for doing this - they have a big database of foods & brands and have exact nutritional information for a wide variety of products, foods, and recipes. Every day I would record what food I ate in the app and could get an understanding of when I was over or under on my daily count.
    3) Eating will get boring but it's necessary if this is your goal. Go into this understanding that you are trying to achieve a goal and understanding that there will be struggles to get there and curve balls, but that's ok! Keep at it and remember your end goals when in doubt.
    4) Snack often. Have a mid-morning snack of fruit. In the afternoon eat some crackers with peanut butter on them. After lunch have a piece of fruit and yoghurt. An hour or two before sleep eat some toast with some milk. Snacking will give you so many extra calories and stop you from having to eat ridiculously large portions at meal times.
    5) Ease into it. You're not going to get there straight away, but if you chip away day by day, week by week, you will see results, I guarantee it!
    6) Like everyone else said - don't fill up on junk foods. Try to fill up with a good mix of healthy foods.

    • tailgatinholden on 25/02/2015 - 21:28

      MyFitnessPal is great!

      Great tips… basically I think if weight gain and muscle mass is key, then think like a natural bodybuilder.. They basically do what is stated above.. except the calorie intake are much higher than the average person.

      Eating often (in smaller portions) is a good idea to spread it out through the day.

    • nightfever on 26/02/2015 - 12:48

      I totally agree with calturk. Do the calories/macro count, and MyFitnessPal is great!

      I personally wouldn't rely on BMI. Having a BMI that is slightly under the 'standard' doesn't really mean anything. As BMI doesn't reveal anything about the makeup of your body, such as your muscle mass and body fat mass, etc. You gf should go get the whole body scan thingy. Being lightweight does not necessary mean you are unhealthy. Just my two cents.

      I am a female, Asian too, couple years back I was 167cm and 47kgs. Everyone thought I was anorexic, but I wasn't. I suppose as you age, your metabolism slows down, and you would burn fats slower - hence would put on weight.

      Currently I am 167cm and 51kg. I go to the gym 4-5 times a week, do mix of cardio and weight lifting. Trying to shred and cut the fats.

      I guess the key is, rather than losing weight or gaining weight, what is it that she wanted to achieve anyway? Does she want to build muscle, does she want to get toned, or is it simply just to get fat?

      I am not an expert, but rather than just eat more and trying to gain weight, it would probably be better to figure out what body type you wanted to achieve. Then work towards that.

  • strikerzebra on 25/02/2015 - 12:48
    +1

    Mi Goreng, deep fried noodles, 1 packet is 400 calories, you can buy 40 packets for about $10

  • [Deactivated] on 25/02/2015 - 12:49

    Quick question, what is her body fat %?

    BMI is fantastic, with a large sample size and practically useless at an individual level.

  • IMFrugl on 25/02/2015 - 13:49
    +1

    I would not be too fussed about BMI as I myself weighed about 50kg for a large part of my life while other guys of my height were typically 90kg. However, if your weight is actually dropping and your old friends who see you go 'what the…' and you feel generally unwell, you need to see a doctor or specialist as many have mentioned. If your family has a hyperthyroidism history, I'd get a second opinion on that. I doubt eating more will make you feel any better or put on more weight as your body is just not absorbing it. But if you really want to go that way, do the muscle building thing mentioned above and just stick to natural foods like meat, eggs, full cream milk etc, preferably in line with your normal diet.

    I don't quite agree with your doctor's philosophy of 'go, eat, then come back.' If you google 'throid issues in women' you will get a lot of info some of which you may need to consider seriously. There is also a checklist here: http://thyroidweek.hosted.uk.com/en/symptoms-check.html
    Good luck.

  • Wallace on 25/02/2015 - 15:08
    +1

    I would take her to Hungry Jacks for lunch everyday and buy her a Bacon Deluxe Burger meal.

    I lived on such a diet and gained about 5 kilos in a month. Not cheap but not expensive either.

  • mlychn on 25/02/2015 - 15:17

    I haven't read all the comments above so this may have already been mentioned. Maybe there is an underlying medical reason (e.g. Hyperthyroidism) as to why she is losing so much weight in the first place?

  • AMLagonda on 25/02/2015 - 15:57

    I cant see how drinking "shakes" is eating healthy when your trying to gain weight.

  • [Deactivated] on 25/02/2015 - 16:25

    This is an honest question so please don't interpret this as flaming: why do you think it is wise or appropriate to ask a bunch of people on the Internet to offer you advice on something that is causing you real concern? I am sorry, but asking the Internet for medical or health advice is a really bad idea.

    I didn't read all the comments so if you have taken her to a doctor and she's fine then this isn't a health concern as much as it is an appearance one. If you have been to a doctor and you don't like his or her advice then seek the opinion of a different one. People on the Internet who skim Wikipedia articles aren't ideal sources of wisdom.

    Additionally, gaining weight probably won't happen uniformly, she'll probably just get fat around the belly. Now, to each their own, of course, but that's a pretty huge turn off. Especially when she gets all of those delightful stretch marks.

    • iridiumstem on 25/02/2015 - 16:38

      I see where you are coming from.

      I will lay out my reasons.

      1. She've talked with a GP and GP apparently said that she needs to gain weight. She is fit, in a sense that she has abs showing etc, but I think she is not fit in a sense that she basically looks like a "twig" (quoting her). We've been hitting gym since 2 weeks ago, but I knew that it was a long term solution and I needed something that is short to medium term solution.

      2. I know that there are meal supplements choices out there, (powders for bulking up) I've seen quite a few of them pop up in Ozbargain. I wanted to see my options and see where I can get those, that was my main intention. Also, I thought Ozbargainers are the people who knows where to get what. We've got the tightest ass, if you know what I mean. I've seen some discussions on protein powders which I thought was reasonable approach when I first posted this.

      3. I really am worried about her being this thin. Even though no complications has shown up on a detailed blood test and such, GP has recommended that she should eat more and try to gain weight (her immune system apparently is taking a hit from being underweight). I honestly wouldn't care if it was mainly appearance issue, which it isn't in my POV.

  • jdesign on 25/02/2015 - 16:36

    Eat rice regularly :D

    I used to eat rice as I'm asian.. Then when I cut rice from my meals ( still eat meat normally ) I lost weight easy (without exercise)
    Good luck.

    http://www.weightlossresources.co.uk/food/potato-rice-bread-…

  • woodwa on 25/02/2015 - 16:47
    +1

    3-4 beers a night after dinner… I used to be huge! Wine works too all alcohol is high Cal
    home-brew to do it cheap

  • AlanHB on 25/02/2015 - 18:03

    If her diet is fine then I don't see what the issue is. I wouldn't just take up an unhealthy diet to meet what the BMI tells you you should be.

    • Aneurism on 25/02/2015 - 19:17

      I agree with this. Overweight people tend to also push their own food problems onto those who are healthy or slightly underweight. It is pretty annoying.

      If it really is that big a deal, then she needs to get a food diary and write down everything she eats or drinks and what portion sizes to figure out estimates of kilojoule intake. Seriously the body doesn't need much food to be nourished if you aren't overly active. As long as she is eating reasonable portions for meals with reasonable nutritional value vitamins and fibre, enough protein and water then she should be fine.

      However if she has one or more of the following then she needs to be the one to initiate change for herself and find proper professional guidance.
      1. a physical malfunction such as thyroid overactivity, insulin deficiencies or liver issues or hormone issues
      2. if she is lying about what and how much she eats, such as anorexia or bulimia. (in which case psychological and physiological issues collide) In which case harping on about body image will probably make things worse, and she would also need to acknowledge the truth to herself..

  • tommy-darko on 25/02/2015 - 18:14

    The white bread suggestion was good. Two buttered pieces, with cooked migoreng noodles in between. Unhealthy but all those carbs and little exercise will puff you up :)

  • AssamLaksa on 25/02/2015 - 19:12
    +2

    Oh my god, is there any way I could donate some of my fats to her? I've got plenty around the belly to share around. In fact, if anyone else out there needs to fatten up, I'll just be sitting around here ready to hand out my fats.

  • umamandy on 25/02/2015 - 19:28
    +1

    Thanks guys. I think we have a general idea now. We'll go see a nutritionist soon and figure out.

    Its not hyperthyroidism. That was the first thing we looked for.

  • rowenaduncan on 25/02/2015 - 19:41

    Does she smoke??? If so, I highly recommend quitting. I have been teeny-tiny my whole life. Quit smoking at 37 - put on 13kg over about 9 months… To date (3 years later) have put on a total of 17kg…. Is anyone else here hungry?…. ;)

    • ProjectZero on 25/02/2015 - 22:03
      +1

      I think you just switched dependencies… probably should look into that…. just saying

      • rowenaduncan on 26/02/2015 - 07:38

        Yup. Defintely switched. :) Thinking I should buy a smaller fridge….

        • lenlynn on 28/02/2015 - 08:19

          Think it's more you get back your sense of taste and smell so you start eating more. I meet quite a few people who quit smoking and most if not all gain weight after.

  • tailgatinholden on 25/02/2015 - 21:23
    +5

    Hi AznMitch,

    As a researcher in cardiovascular/chronic disease, exercise physiology and immunology, here are some 'lay person' pointers:

    1. Determine if your GF does have a fast metabolism, or could it be an eating disorder?
    2. If it is the former, then a healthy diet and resistance exercise will be a good way to build muscle bulk/appetite and healthy immune system.
      Do not proceed with a high-fat or high-sugar diet, I would still stick with the tried and true, of good fruit and vegetables with significant protein from lean meats.. Think Paleo style.
      In terms of exercise, do what is enjoyable, but if you do aerobic exercise like running, it may not help with the 'gaining weight' part.. I've seen my thin friends really benefit from resistance exercise (weight circuit training).
    3. If lactose intolerant, use alternatives or drink Zymil etc.. I know dairy isn't a fave to some people, then sure, Soy or Rice milk is better than none. Supplementing with WPI is proven to be a good thing for muscle mass increase, and although it is OzBargain, I've found that it's just best to spend the money on something that tastes good (for example, the big brand stuff ON (optimum nutrition), BSc, Mushashi, all have very easy to consume flavours, whilst some cheaper or more obscure brands might be cheaper (and possibly as, if not more, effective) might have a less taste profile.
    4. Overall, the media is good at giving us new fads "wine will reduce cancer, chocolate is good!, high fat food doesn't kill you.." and the research keeps on flipping to good/bad all the time. The thing is, each person is different, what you have highlighted is that your GF has low BMI and you feel the immune system is affected by this.. It may or may not be, but it doesn't hurt to experiment with what works and what doesn't so as long as nothing is extreme, and it is relatively enjoyable.

    The only constant is that the ideas in point #2 are probably the best science has to offer right now in terms of natural ways to gain weight and be healthy. Other than that, just go with the flow. Ensure nutrition is up, if metabolism is fast and it is not a pathological condition, then eat more often! Exercise with weights more, and eat with what makes you happy. Eating fats and sugars generally does not make you happy in the long term!

    Good luck!

    • iridiumstem on 27/02/2015 - 19:21

      Thank you so much for the reply,

      I think she does have a fast metabolism for certain, or it might be absorbtion problem, but as far as I see, I don't think she has eating disorders. She can eat a lot, it's just that she cannot stomach as much. She knows and thinks that she's skinny as a twig. Since I've heard that a GP told her she needs to gain weight because it's probably causing her to be ill often (lower immune system), I thought I might as well start hitting the gym with her/make her eat more or change her calorie and fat intake.

      That was why I was thinking about supplements, she cannot eat a lot, let's use high calorie, high protein supplements to help her gain weight. I think I am going to at the very least, try to get her something high in fat like nuts and avocados.

      Anyways thank you about your suggestions :)

      • tailgatinholden on 28/02/2015 - 14:19

        Hope any of this doesn't sound un-PC as it's not my intention!

        But I've seen my female friends who were naturally thin really benefit from gym!
        They complained the same thing: I try to eat a lot, but it just doesn't stick.. or I get tired/sick alot.

        The girls who get committed to a weight training regime, still stay lean but have much more definition in their musculature. They brag about their wellbeing ALL the time on fb/instagram.. and show off their planned meals of lentils/grilled chicken etc.. so it must have forseeable benefits!

        Back to your question of affordable ways:

        cans of tuna, milk, eggs, WPI protein is expensive outlay but not if you consider it may be a meal replacement some times. Chicken thigh/breast is versatile.. and cheap per kg. Buy in season vegetables and fruits.. buy in bulk, eat in bulk!

        Cheap carbs: half price special rice bags, pasta!

  • gimme on 25/02/2015 - 21:48

    Boobjob!

    But seriously you are asking for advice and getting a lot of UNHEALTHY weight gaining options based on the fact that her BMI is slightly low.??? BMI is just a guide. She should get medically examined, if there's nothing wrong with her than carry on. Better slim than the majority of the overweight/obese Aus population.

  • Indomietable on 26/02/2015 - 00:07
    +11

    aging !

    When I was young I had problem gaining weight. Past 26 I had problem losing weight. Now Im a pig.

  • knackers on 26/02/2015 - 04:20
    +2

    Animals grow large when they feed off vegetation growing around volcanos. Try that.

    • 2ndeffort on 27/02/2015 - 11:09

      Great answer….HAHAHAHA!! How about eating vegetation that grows around crashed meteors or exploded nuclear plants etc?

  • Fizzgig on 26/02/2015 - 12:19

    Definately a visit to the Doctors to get blood tests. That way they can advise further on what the best food groups your GF would be best sticking to etc

  • dmgdx on 26/02/2015 - 12:36

    Very simple shake before going to bed:

    1 scoop protein powder (130 Cal)
    45g peanut butter (250 Cal)
    1 banana (100 Cal)
    1 cup of milk (150 Cal)

    I like to add a bit of fiber powder then blend it all up, easy 600 Cal, doesn't taste that bad

  • WT on 26/02/2015 - 12:46

    calorie in vs cal out. To gain weight you need to eat more cal's then what you use.

    If you cant eat it, drink it. The healthiest way I have found is a teaspoon of honey, warm water and a squeeze of lemon (real ones, not bottled). First thing in the morning is great but you could fill a drink bottle up and drink later in the day or substitute it for whatever water she drinks. Dont mung on it for hours, skull it down, she will pee most of the water out within half hour.

    2nd option is harder to make.
    1 Banana
    1-2 tsp cocoa
    Milk
    ice/water
    blend.
    Optional: protein powder, I add 1 scoop of WPI and half scoop of soy protein powder
    Option 2: add a tablespoon of ice cream, I don't do this much as the soy protein thickens it nicely. Add 1 tsp of sugar if you have to.

    There is something about the body/brain that processes liquids differently to food. I can eat a full meal and within an hour I can drink this shake, mine works out to be 8-900ml.

    If she doesn't like the gym, try HIIT. Google it. You can do it at home. Avoid cardio/jogging that is more then 1+ hour. If you cycle, cycle like your 5-10 mins late. Don't mosey about on flat stuff. If your strapped for time pick a hill about 100m long. Warm up and sprint up 5-15 times as fast as you can, max effort. double the distance if you have a road bike with slicks. Legs can be done in 10 mins this way, who doesn't have a hill near by?

    Eating unhealthy means she will still be a frail person, just with more fat.

  • bocca on 26/02/2015 - 13:06
    +1

    Take it slow!

    (my background: cert in fitness,studied some physio, gym for 8years, lost 45KG)

    You can only put on a certain amount of 'good weight' per month, so take it slow :)
    Anything extra is stored as fat and can be detrimental to health (heart problems, high blood pressure).

    The easiest thing to do is to increase the portion size of meals or to add an extra meal per day.
    If this fails add one more meal or further increase meal sizes. repeat…

    Upping carbohydrates is the easiest and cheapest way that I put on weight.
    you can do this the clean way or dirty way.
    Clean: rice, pasta, bread, sweet potato, potato
    dirty: pizza, chocolate, burgers, chips

    I would also recommend doing weights and upping protein to build some muscle.
    Cheap proteins are eggs, tuna, beef mince etc

    For general health Id say do light cardio 2-3 times per week

    GOOD LUCK

  • supaderp on 26/02/2015 - 13:51
    +2

    Get her pregnant.

    • ProjectZero on 27/02/2015 - 10:09

      Worst deal ever! =P

  • rizzzzzle on 26/02/2015 - 14:16

    peanut butter
    whole milk
    oats
    eggs
    almonds/other nuts

    eat at least 5 times a day

  • [Deactivated] on 26/02/2015 - 22:24

    I can't speak from any kind of professional stance because I have no actual clue how healthy this is… But, personally, I go with things like tuna. Not on it's own, in maybe a salad or a sandwich. This along side meats (anything should work), enough calories (good breakfast helps a lot) and a good workout a few times a week and you should be set! It's what worked for me.

  • aerona on 26/02/2015 - 22:40

    Olive oil, mix with milk and stir. Tada super calories and milk cancels the olive oil taste for a few seconds whilst in emulsion. Next question.

  • natsumezoku on 26/02/2015 - 23:02

    You should probably go see a nutritionist so you can get advice specific for your situation.

    For most people 'just eat more' is an easy solution, in fact it's what they have to fight to avoid. But for skinny people with stomachs the size of a bird's that just doesn't work. Also you don't want what you eat to just come out in the toilet so you have to be smart about what you eat not just quantity and also have to work on specific exercises to actually convert that food to body mass, since for one reason or another people like us simply don't put on fat.

    Most people don't struggle to put on weight, so the advice from said people generally doesn't apply. It's just as easy to say energy in equals energy out to a person trying to lose weight as a person trying to gain, but it doesn't exactly work that easily in practice even if it is true.

    Your profile is listed as being from Canberra so pity you're not on Melb, this came up the other day on reddit.
    http://www.reddit.com/r/melbourne/comments/2wz5w3/anybody_po…

    Personally I drink meal supplement/replacement drinks every now and then. The stuff they recommend at hospitals when a person is to sick to eat physical food and stuff. The brand I drink is Ensure, but I wouldn't call it cheap. I buy it in a tin at pharmacies that look similar to baby formula and it's about $33 for a tin that you mix with milk.

    It seems like their website has a live chat to ask a nutritionist too so maybe give that a go. http://ensure.com/nutrition-faq (never tried it personally I just saw the link while looking it up.)

    You can also try the gainit sub on reddit for more info http://www.reddit.com/r/gainit/wiki/index

  • Kiwi131313 on 27/02/2015 - 02:14
    +2

    I've been trying to bulk up too recently. Here what is working for me:
    Download the MyFitnessPal app - it lets you track kJ and also your macros (fat, protein and carbs) and tells you when you've hit your daily goals. I was one of these skinny bastards who thought I was eating a ton but never put on weight. Once I downloaded this I realised how little I actually ate. It might seem annoying at first, but stick with it for at least a month so you can get a feel of how much to eat in a day.
    Check out Reddit, specifically GainIt and Fittit - Reddit has heaps of great advice, FAQ's and they are really supportive of questions. Just read the FAQ/Wiki on the right side of those pages before asking, chances are your questions have already been answered. Visit them everyday, there is always new stuff.
    Don't be afraid of takeaway - The best part of bulking! If you are going to the gym, the odd Big Mac or Whopper will help more than hinder your progress. These foods are high in protein and fat, exactly what you need to gain weight. I'm not saying head to KFC after each workout (unfortunately), but if you are 5000kJ under your daily target, here's your answer.
    Full cream milk is your friend - Heaps of kJ in this, I try drink 4 glasses a day, it won't make me feel stuffed but its got heaps of fat and protein in it. There are even some diets that revolve around drinking 4L of milk a day, but that is a bit much for me.

    I have been doing all these things over the past month, combined with lifting at the gym and am now at my heaviest. 4 months ago I was 75kg, now 81kg. (Male, 22yo, 6'2/188cm).

    In regards to the protein powder question: I wouldn't get any for now. Once you download the MyFitnessPal app and use it for a while, your girlfriend will know if she needs more protein or not. MyFitnessPal will work it out for you, but you want about 2g of protein per kg of body weight per day. Your girlfriend sounds petite so she shouldn't need much until she bulks up a bit. If you do decide to go with it there are two types, straight protein powder and 'Mass Gainer' (also called many other things like 'Supersize' etc.) which is protein powder with lots of sugar and other carbs mixed in, designed to help you put on weight. Whatever you decided to go with, my advice would be to only buy a small bag/container at first, until you find one you like, as a lot of them are disgustingly sweet, or just plain disgusting. I only put in 1 scoop with milk instead of the recommended 2 as I find it gets way too sweet and thick, that's just my personal preference though. The one that everyone seems to recommend at the moment is Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protien as it has the highest protein per serve and tastes amazing, although I haven't tried it myself (yet) so, as I said above, go with a sampler pack to see if your girlfriend likes it first. This is the straight protein powder, so it wont have heaps of kJ in it, but your gf can always throw it in a blender and add full cream milk, a banana, peanut butter and ice cream. It also means you can enjoy it too without fear of gaining unwanted fat.

    One last tip to do with your gym routines: Check out the Jefit app. It takes a bit to set up, but there are hundreds of exercises in there, routines ready to go, its really easy to use and track your progress, and even has a rest timer so you actually rest for the right amount of time between sets, rather than guessing like I used to.

    Sorry about the massive comment, hopefully it helped some. I'm happy to answer any questions, either here on via PM. I don't pretend to be an expert, but I have been lifting at the gym on and off for about 5 years, this time I'm being more serious about my diet and being smarter with my time in the gym.

    • ProjectZero on 27/02/2015 - 15:43

      Wait… i always thought processed food had little to almost no nutrients… how would a meat patty that has been processed so that it can last out in the open for 10 years and not rot have any nutrients like protein?

      Not being a dick, just really curious.

      • Kiwi131313 on 27/02/2015 - 15:55

        Its a good question and, I don't have a super technical answer. I just go off what is shown on the nutritional information: Take the Ultimate Double Whopper for example. It has 58% of your daily recommended energy and 158% of your daily protein at 76.3g (if you are weight lifting this probably equates to about 50% of your daily protein).

        Without actually knowing, I would say these burgers wouldn't have the same amount of vitamins and minerals as a healthy homemade burger, so, like I said in my original comment, I don't recommend one of these after every workout, but they are a fast, delicious, easy and convenient way to get your kJ, fat and protein when bulking.

        • ProjectZero on 27/02/2015 - 16:08

          I'm actually surprised by the amount of protein stated, alwasy thought it was like 15g or something lol.

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