Expert: Joanne - 6/21/2006

Question
Since when i was born i was underweight. my mom was underweight as a teen. Im 15 5'1" and 100lbs, i took a test online where you enter your age/weight/height and it says if your underweight/average/overweight. I got underweight.

I decided to gain 5-10 lbs, to eat 5 times a day -it didnt work, the next day I would feel full and eat only twice a day. I want to grain weight, but it doesnt work. When i eat a lot i get a strong pain in my tummy where it hurts to breathe and walk, and when i dont eat I feel weak and tired but sometimes when i do try to eat i cant, i sometimes force myself to. What do you think would help?

Answer
I know that you can buy build-up meal sachet things in pharmacies, have you tried them?  They are just like milkshakes, so it may be easier to have them than eat a full meal.

I also recommend that you speak with a dietician/nutritionist.  They will be able to work out a meal plan for you which will allow you to increase your weight gradually and safely.

I hope that this has answered your question, if not please come back and tell me what you need clarified, and I wish you all the best.
Holly