Healthy Ways Of Losing And Gaining Weight / Question
Published: March 5, 2000
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I am a fifteen-year-old male who is 6 feet 1 inch tall. I only weigh 133 pounds. What is a normal weight for my height? What kind of food should I eat to gain weight?
Signed: What To Eat To Gain
Dear What To Eat To Gain,
It is difficult to give you a "normal" weight for your height because everyone is different and there are several factors to consider. Take a look at you family. Do they have similar body shapes? Also, muscle weighs more than fat, so you need to think about how much fat and muscle you have.
Remember, at your age, your body is growing very fast and burning lots of calories. To gain weight safely, you should consult a doctor and/or a nutritionist. They can give you a meal plan and an idea of the amount of calories and exercise you should have each day.
While you are waiting to see the doctor, try following the high end of servings on the food pyramid and eat foods loaded with complex carbohydrates like pasta, whole grain breads, and cereals. Also, follow the suggested number of servings of protein on the food pyramid because it is important in building muscle.
If you are not already, try working out and getting physical activity at least 3 - 5 times per week for an hour. This will give turn those extra calories into muscle. A personal trainer at your local gym, a coach or a gym teacher can help you figure out your best type of exercise plan.
Teenagers are often unsatisfied with how their body is growing and developing. If this is how you are feeling or if you are becoming depressed, seek help from your parents, doctor or teacher. Sometimes everyone needs help in dealing with some of these issues.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
Among male drivers between 15 and 20 years of age who were involved in fatal crashes in 2005, 38% were speeding at the time of the crash and 24% had been drinking.
