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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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!
Cigarettes are stimulants, so if you’re trying to gain weight, stop smoking. In fact, stop smoking anyway. It can kill you!
Caffeine is a stimulant and a diuretic, so avoid soda, coffee, hot cocoa, hot tea, and anything else that may have caffeine in it.
You’ll definitely want to continue to drink your 64 ounces of water each day, so your body will stay hydrated.
Just like people who are trying to lose weight can’t expect overnight results, neither can people who are trying to gain weight. Set reasonable goals, and don’t be disappointed when it doesn’t happen right away.
You’ll know you’re gaining weight on your own, without checking a scale every day. Weigh yourself once a week, or once every two weeks, instead of every day.
Don’t stuff yourself silly or try to gain more weight than you should. You’ll regret it later, and it will definitely make your friends who are dieting feel awful!
Regardless of whether or not you’re able to gain weight, remember that not every woman is meant to be a size 4. Some of us are designed to be a size 2, and some of us were meant to be an 8. That’s what makes the world so interesting!
What are your weight gain secrets? What do you eat when you’re trying to put on a few pounds? I used to love milkshakes. What about you?
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