Causes of Underweight
Underweight refers to a condition characterized by a body weight that is lower than the norm, stemming from a variety of physiological and medical factors. As such, being underweight can often indicate the presence of an underlying health issue. Generally, the approach to addressing underweight issues is contingent upon identifying the causes. It is important to note that weight loss can be classified into two categories: intentional, which occurs when an individual actively seeks to lose weight, and unintentional, which refers to weight loss that occurs without the individual’s desire, often due to a health condition or poor dietary choices.
Intentional Causes
- Consuming fewer calories, often as a result of following a stringent diet.
- Taking specific medications that increase the body’s metabolic rate, which frequently includes synthetic hormones.
- Adhering to an intense exercise regimen that requires sustained physical exertion.
- Experiencing social, psychological, cultural, or environmental factors that impact food intake.
Unintentional Causes
- Hormonal imbalances, such as low insulin levels or elevated thyroid hormone (thyroxine) levels, along with glandular diseases affecting organs like the adrenal glands.
- Gastrointestinal issues including chronic vomiting, intestinal inflammation and tumors, malabsorption of nutrients, the presence of intestinal parasites, as well as oral health problems like tooth loss, gum ulcers, and lesions in the interior of the cheeks, all of which can impede proper food mastication and reduce nutrient absorption.
- Certain mental health disorders such as depression, anorexia, anxiety, and stress.
- Autoimmune diseases, including HIV/AIDS and lymphatic disorders.
- Severe illnesses such as leukemia, Crohn’s disease, bone marrow cancer, tuberculosis, acute kidney failure, and respiratory infections.
- Respiratory issues, including infections of the airways, neurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease, and Parkinson’s disease, as well as cardiovascular conditions affecting the heart and blood vessels.
- Genetic predispositions that are influenced by family and ethnic backgrounds.
- Aging, which often leads to an increased metabolic rate.
- Use of certain medications, including sedatives, antidepressants, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, antihypertensives, or certain herbal supplements.
- Habits such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
Treatment for Underweight
Treatment for Intentional Weight Loss
- Increasing calorie intake sufficiently and avoiding overly restrictive diets.
- Modifying physical activities and exercise routines to prevent excessive strain and avoid rigorous workout schedules.
- Ceasing the intake of foods that can elevate metabolic rates.
- Adopting a balanced diet while minimizing psychological and social factors that contribute to weight loss.
Treatment for Unintentional Weight Loss
- Identifying the underlying cause through necessary medical examinations and laboratory tests, and addressing it through appropriate medical treatment.
- Consulting a nutrition specialist to devise a diet rich in essential nutrients needed by the body.