I can’t count how many times perfect strangers have walked up to me and commented on my weight. “You need to eat more!” or “You’re so skinny!” are comments I hear all of the time.
Most of these people would never dream of saying something similar to an overweight person, but they have no problem commenting on what I weigh. I’m comfortable with my body the way it is, and I’m healthy.
But you might be tired of the comments, and you’re ready to gain a little weight. If that’s the case, then here are some ways to gain weight, without being unhealthy.
1. Know what you need
How many calories do you need each day? There’s a great calculator tool at mypyramid.gov that will help you decide how many calories you need to consume each day, and the best way to get them.
2. Skip the fat
You may be tempted to just eat lots of junk food to gain weight, but that’s a very bad idea. First of all, there isn’t much in the way of nutrients in junk food, and second of all, it is bad for your heart.
3. Eat bigger meals, less often
One of the easiest ways to gain weight is to stop snacking, and eat three big meals each day. That means a full, complete breakfast, a square lunch, and a reasonable dinner.
4. Don’t stop exercising
You may also think that now would be a good time to skip the gym. No! don’t do it! You’re trying to gain weight, not get fat. Plus, going to the gym will keep your heart healthy and keep fat from collecting in those trouble areas.
5. Never mind the meanies
Not everyone will be supportive of your goal of gaining weight. I have a couple of friends who were downright mean about it, and made all kinds of cruel remarks. Avoid the people you know will be hurtful, or, if you’re brave enough, stand up to them!
6. Don’t supplement
It may seem like the perfect time to try a protein drink or a weight-gain supplement, but don’t do it. You’ll only end up feeling sluggish, since most supplements just try to keep you from having a bowel movement to gain weight. That’s right: they will prevent you from pooping! Ick!
Avoiding stress was the biggest factor that helped me lose weight. When I quit my office job and took charge of my professional life, stress was greatly decreased. Six months after quitting, I’m 10 lbs heavier and I needed to gain 10lbs. :)
These are some great tips, I have some days when I’m so lazy and I don’t want to exercise but I’m trying to keep my happy spirit alive. I think also stress is one of my major problems :D
Thank You!!!
I am trying to gain between 10-15 pounds right now and I get some snarky remarks from people sometimes and I try not to let it get me down. Quitting smoking…#1 hurdle right now!
Hi Lua,
People will always say things. The best you can do is ignore them! Just put your mind to it and I’m sure you’ll be able to gain that weight and quit smoking. Only you can help yourself! :)
Lua,
Mee tooo! Smoking is such a nasty habit :S
Don’t take any notice what people say. If you’re thin they will talk, and if you’re fat they will talk the same. So let them be and live your live pleasantly!
Just adding calories to your diet will not help you gain muscle, it needs to be combined with resistance training. If diet alone is added, this may result in excess weight gain as fat. Resistant training is what helps the body gain more muscle tissue and this type of weight gain is positive.
Hey Ronald,
Absolutely true! Thanks for stopping by :)
Instead of wasting your money on that type of supplement, how about following a proven program that allows you to gain weight fast, that requires very little expense and is super simple and devastatingly effective.
I just can’t read this!!
It’s not what I want at alll!!
Looooliess I’m always trying to loose wight instead of gaining!! :P
Eat bigger meals, less often.. How I wish I can follow up what you said Jen. 3 Meals a day would be great!! :)
Xannyyy,
The gress is always greener on the other side no? :p
Sheila,
Yeah!! :S