Reasons I am Skinny?

A person’s body shape depends largely on genetic factors. This is the main reason why it is difficult for a naturally thin person to put on weight. There are certainly effective ways of gaining weight available but don’t expect results overnight. Patience is required. Gaining lean body weight (i.e. muscle not fat) is a slow process that takes months or years rather than days or weeks. It is also important to consult with your doctor to ensure that your weight gaining strategy is healthy and appropriate for you.

Now lets take a closer look at the main factors relating to thinness. Some common reasons why a person may find it hard to gain weight include:

Genetics
Are your parents skinny? Are their parents skinny? It will be pretty obvious to a person as to whether or not thinness runs in the family. Whether it’s high metabolism or just a light body frame it can certainly be passed down the generations.

Not eating enough
This may seem the most obvious reason for being underweight. If you are not eating enough or simply eating the wrong types of food then you are going to be underweight. Diet is a key factor in determining thinness but on the bright side it is likely to be relatively easy to correct. Eat more good food and you will gain weight. Simple as that.

Having a very physically active lifestyle or job
Often underestimated is the amount of energy a person spends on day to day activities. Being active burns calories and this will definitely impact your weight. Some people are on the go each day, running around at work, looking after children, doing housework and seemingly never sit down. Conversely, some people sit down all day (like I am now). Neither is particularly healthy so finding a balance will most likely make it easier to attain your ideal body shape.

Over-Exercising
It’s important to exercise regularly but if you do too much then it will be virtually impossible to gain weight. Those trying to gain weight are often advised to turn fat into muscle. This is the correct approach but it doesn’t mean hitting the gym every day and running marathons. The more you exercise, the more you will need to eat to retain your body weight.

It should also be noted that some people are too thin because of an eating disorder, substance abuse, a disability or serious medical condition such as cancer. These instances should be treated on an individual basis and professional advice should be sought.