How do I gain weight? (Diet Query)

Try these simple foods to help you gain weight in a healthy fashion! Read to find out more...

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Written By: Adil Dolani | Published : July 11, 2014 4:35 PM IST

Underweight girlHi, I am Asha (name changed ) , 17 years. I am quite underweight and scared to go for any medications or pills for weight gain. Could you please suggest any foods to gain weight?

Gaining weight just as tough for some, as losing it is for others. All you require is a proper focused diet, motivation and the ability to exercise some amount of caution. 'What' and 'how much' to eat are two significant questions that arise in any weight gain regime. Going for shortcut junk foods could adversely affect your health and could defeat your goals in the long run.

Here are some foods that are very likely to help you gain weight:

1) Milk the food famous for its wholesome nature contains all the essential elements required for healthy weight gain. It contains fats, proteins, calcium and minerals in adequate amounts. Dairy product's like butter and cheese can also contribute to the cause by providing you with ample amounts of fat. Read more about health benefits of milk.

2) Potatoes Technically, to gain weight your diet should be rather high in carbohydrates, comprising at least 40% of your intake. Potatoes are your best bet if you wish to fulfill this requirement. They are loaded with carbohydrates and contain amino acids like glutamine and arginine, making them a good food option for those who want to gain weight. Methods of preparation can significantly alter the nutritional value of food, so opt for mashed or boiled potatoes rather than french fries.

3) Bananas As surprising as this may be, a single banana is capable of providing your body with 105 calories. This makes it a great energy dense food that can help if you need a sudden burst of energy. It is also rich in carbohydrates, hence can be perfectly tagged as a healthy weight gain food. Read about how bananas are great for your health.

Besides these foods, there are other superfoods like chicken and oats that can be consumed to help you gain weight. However, if you experience any weight loss or do not gain weight over a period of time you should consult with your doctor or a nutritionist.

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