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Underweight, want to increase my weight
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General Health
Question #11663
45 days ago
184

Underweight, want to increase my weight - #11663

Ashis Kumar Das

Almost 6 feet I'm, but weight is only 51 kg, lost appetite, tried multiple protein sources before, but couldn't find best. Please help me put of this situation. Do i need to take any medicine to increase weight?

Age: 24
Chronic illnesses: Nothing
300 INR (~3.53 USD)
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Doctors’ responses

Dr. Arsha K Isac
I am a general dentist with 3+ years of working in real-world setups, and lemme say—every single patient teaches me something diff. It’s not just teeth honestly, it’s people… and how they feel walking into the chair. I try really hard to not make it just a “procedure thing.” I explain stuff in plain words—no confusing dental jargon, just straight talk—coz I feel like when ppl *get* what's going on, they feel safer n that makes all the difference. Worked with all ages—like, little kids who need that gentle nudge about brushing, to older folks who come in with long histories and sometimes just need someone to really sit n listen. It’s weirdly rewarding to see someone walk out lighter, not just 'coz their toothache's gone but coz they felt seen during the whole thing. A lot of ppl come in scared or just unsure, and I honestly take that seriously. I keep the vibe calm. Try to read their mood, don’t rush. I always tell myself—every smile’s got a story, even the broken ones. My thing is: comfort first, then precision. I want the outcome to last, not just look good for a week. Not tryna claim perfection or magic solutions—just consistent, clear, hands-on care where patients feel heard. I think dentistry should *fit* the person, not push them into a box. That's kinda been my philosophy from day one. And yeah, maybe sometimes I overexplain or spend a bit too long checking alignment again but hey, if it means someone eats pain-free or finally smiles wide in pics again? Worth it. Every time.
45 days ago
5

Hi Ashis,

First we have to rule out whether this is due to any medical reason.For that you have to do some tests: 1.Thyroid profile 2.CBC 3.LFT/RFT 4.Stool routine and culture

Meanwhile: Follow calorie dense diet+ strength training exercises 1.Frequent meals 2.Take Calorie-dense foods such as peanut butter,nuts,almonds,Milk,Eggs,potatoes 3. High-calorie shakes/smoothie 4.Whey protein

Supplements: Omega 3 Zinc+multivitamin

For appetite: Syp: Megestrol 125mg 5ml once a day

Thank you

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Dr. Nirav Jain
I am a qualified medical doctor with MBBS and DNB Diploma in Family Medicine from NBEMS, and my work has always been centered on treating patients in a complete, not just symptom based way. During my DNB training I rotated through almost every core department—Internal medicine, Pediatrics, Obstetrics & Gynecology, Surgery, Orthopedics, ENT, Dermatology, Psychiatry, Emergency medicine. That mix gave me the skill to manage acute illness, long term disease and preventive care together, something I find very important in family practice. In psychiatry I worked closely with patients who struggled with depression, anxiety, stress related problems, insomnia or substance use. I learned not just about medication but also about simple psychotherapy tools, psycho education and how to talk openly without judgement. I still use that exp in family medicine, specially when chronic disease patients also face mental health issues. My time in General surgery included assisting in minor and major procedures, managing wounds, abscess, sutures and emergencies. While I am not a surgeon, this gave me confidence to recognize surgical cases early, provide first line care and refer fast when needed, which makes a big difference in online or OPD settings. Now I work as a consultant in General medicine and Family practice, with focus on both in-person and online consultation. I treat conditions like fever, infections, gastrointestinal complaints, respiratory illness, and also manage diabetes, hypertension, thyroid disorders, and lifestyle related chronic diseases. I see women for PCOS, contraception counseling, menstrual health, and children for common pediatric issues. I also dedicate time to preventive health, lifestyle counseling and diet-sleep-exercise advice, since these small changes affect long term wellness more than we often realize. My key skills include holistic diagnosis, evidence based treatment, chronic disease management, mental health support, preventive medicine and telemedicine communiation. At the center of all this is one thing—patients should feel heard, safe, and guided with care that is both professional and personal.
45 days ago
5

Hello Ashis,

You need to consider getting theses investigations done - CBC, LFT, RFT, Thyroid Function Test, FBS/PPBS, Stool Test.

Your BMI is quite low, we should work on increasing that. Main reason seems to be low appetite and low calorie intake, but we should also rule out thyroid, diabetes, and malabsorption, by getting done the above investigations.

Diet: Take 5–6 meals/day. Add calorie-rich foods like banana shake, mango shake, dry fruits, paneer, eggs, chicken/fish, peanut butter, and ghee. Drink 1 glass milk with dry fruits daily. Whey protein can be used along with food. The brand “Only what’s needed” is making a good whey protein, you can try that, if you are exercising.

Lifestyle: Do light exercise or yoga to stimulate appetite, and sleep 7–8 hrs.

Medicines: Syp. Cyproheptadine 5ml, before meals, twice a day. Tab. Albendazole 400mg only once

With consistent diet & lifestyle, you can gain 0.5–1 kg per month safely.

Regards,

Dr. Nirav Jain MBBS, DNB, D.Fam.Med

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Dr. Alan Reji
I'm Dr. Alan Reji, a general dentist with a deep-rooted passion for helping people achieve lasting oral health while making dental visits feel less intimidating. I graduated from Pushpagiri College of Dental Sciences (batch of 2018), and ever since, I've been committed to offering high-quality care that balances both advanced clinical knowledge and genuine compassion for my patients. Starting Dent To Smile here in Palakkad wasn’t just about opening a clinic—it was really about creating a space where people feel relaxed the moment they walk in. Dental care can feel cold or overly clinical, and I’ve always wanted to change that. So I focused on making it warm, easygoing, and centered completely around you. I mix new-age tech with some good old-fashioned values—really listening, explaining stuff without jargon, and making sure you feel involved, not just treated. From regular cleanings to fillings or even cosmetic work, I try my best to keep things smooth and stress-free. No hidden steps. No last-minute surprises. I have a strong interest in patient education and preventive dentistry. I genuinely believe most dental issues can be caught early—or even avoided—when patients are given the right information at the right time. That’s why I take time to talk, not just treat. Helping people understand why something’s happening is as important to me as treating what’s happening. At my practice, I’ve made it a point to stay current with the latest innovations—digital diagnostics, minimally invasive techniques, and smart scheduling that respects people’s time. I also try to make my services accessible and affordable, because good dental care shouldn’t be out of reach for anyone.
43 days ago
5

Being 6 feet tall with a weight of 51 kg suggests you are underweight, and poor appetite may be due to nutritional deficiencies, thyroid or digestive issues, or stress. Medicines are generally not the first choice for weight gain — instead, a high-calorie balanced diet with protein, healthy fats, and medical evaluation for underlying causes is important. Please consult a physician or dietitian to rule out health problems and create a safe weight-gain plan tailored for you.

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Dr. Perambalur Ayyadurai Rohith
I am a general physician with more than 10 yr of clinical experiance, and in this time I worked with patients from all age groups, from young kids to elderly with multiple chronic issues. My practice has been wide, but I gradually developed deeper intrest in diabetology. I spend much of my day focusing on prevention, early diagnosis and management of diabetes, using lifestyle modification, medical therapy and regular monitoring. Many patients come worried about complications, and I try to explain things in simple language, whether it is diet, excercise, or understanding lab reports, so they dont feel lost. I also conduct detailed diagnostic evaluation and use evidence based protocols to make sure treatment is reliable and updated, even if sometimes I double check myself when results dont match the clinical picture. Apart from regular OPD practice, I gained strong experiance in occupational health. Over years I worked with multiple companies handling pre employment checks, annual medical exams, workplace wellness programs, and ensuring compliance with industrial health and safety standards. It is diffrent from hospital practice, but equally important, because healthy workers mean safe and productive workplace. I run medical surveillance programs and health awareness sessions in collaboration with corporates, and this also gave me exposure to preventive strategies on a large scale. For me, patient care is not just treatment but building trust. My career revolve around preventive medicine, ethical clinical practice, and continuous learning. I keep myself updated with modern medical protocols, but I also value listening to patient worries, since medicine is not only about lab values but also about how a person feels in daily life. I make mistakes in words sometimes, but in my work I try to be very precise. At end of day, my aim is to provide care that is accessible, evidence based and truly centered on patient well being.
45 days ago
5

1.Your BMI is very low, and loss of appetite is a main reason for not gaining weight.

2.First step is to rule out causes like thyroid issues, diabetes, or stomach problems.

3.Instead of only protein, focus on balanced diet with carbs, healthy fats, and proteins.

4.Eat small frequent meals, add nuts, milkshakes, peanut butter, eggs, and rice regularly.

5.Medicines are not the first option appetite boosters or supplements are used only if needed after evaluation.

6.Meeting a doctor for basic blood tests and a diet plan will help you gain weight safely.

7.With proper diet and medical guidance, weight gain is possible in a healthy way don’t rely only on quick medicines.

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Dr. Bharat Joshi
I’m a periodontist and academician with a strong clinical and teaching background. Over the last 4 years and 8 months, I’ve been actively involved in dental education, guiding students at multiple levels including dental hygienist, BDS, and MDS programs. Currently, I serve as a Reader at MMCDSR in Ambala, Haryana—a role that allows me to merge my academic passion with hands-on experience. Clinically, I’ve been practicing dentistry for the past 12 years. From routine procedures like scaling and root planing to more advanced cases involving grafts, biopsies, and implant surgeries. Honestly, I still find joy in doing a simple RCT when it’s needed. It’s not just about the procedure but making sure the patient feels comfortable and safe. Academically, I have 26 research publications to my credit. I’m on the editorial boards of the Archives of Dental Research and Journal of Dental Research and Oral Health, and I’ve spent a lot of time reviewing manuscripts—from case reports to meta-analyses and even book reviews. I was honored to receive the “Best Editor” award by Innovative Publications, and Athena Publications recognized me as an “excellent reviewer,” which honestly came as a bit of a surprise! In 2025, I had the opportunity to present a guest lecture in Italy on traumatic oral lesions. Sharing my work and learning from peers globally has been incredibly fulfilling. Outside academics and clinics, I’ve also worked in the pharmaceutical sector as a Drug Safety Associate for about 3 years, focusing on pharmacovigilance. That role really sharpened my attention to detail and deepened my understanding of drug interactions and adverse effects. My goal is to keep learning, and give every patient and student my absolute best.
45 days ago
5

Hello dear See as per your height weight ratio and BMR analysis your weight should be 70-74 kg See it seems either any metabolic disorder or malnutrition I suggest you to please get following tests done and share reports with general physician or dietician for better clarification Serum TSH Rbs Rft Lft Serum ferritin Kindly share the details with general physician or dietician for better clarification Please follow below instructions Do exercises especially weight gaining Take zincovit multivitamin therapy Avoid alcohol or smoking if taking already Avoid food supplements without consulting the concerned doctor Include nuts and grams in your diet In case of no recovery consult dietician Please donot take any medications without consulting the concerned doctor Regards

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Dr. Omprakash
I am working as an Assistant professor at Srinivasan Medical College in Trichy since 2021 and over these years I got to see both the clinical and academic sides of medicine in a way that keeps me learning every single day. Teaching is not only about standing infront of a class, for me it is more about shaping how young doctors think about diagnosis, patient care, surgery skills, and even the ethics part that sometimes get lost when ur rushing through rounds. I handle a mix of lecturing, supervising in clinics, and being part of ward duties, which means I balance between being a teacher and a practicing clinician. At times it feels hectic but then again, that’s also the place where u grow. My role gives me a chance to work closely with students, interns and residents, guiding them not only in theory but also while managing real patients with complex medical needs. The exposure at the college and hospital has kept me updated with new protocols, evolving medical technology, and better treatment approaches that directly improve patient outcomes. I deal with a variety of cases, routine and emergency, and that makes me more confident in taking tough calls when needed. Academic research, case discussions, CME programs, all of these are regular part of my work and help me push beyond just routine teaching. Patient care still stays the center for me. I try to keep communication clear, making sure patients and families understand what’s happening, which is sometimes harder than doing a procedure. Over the years I feel that bridging that gap of understanding is as important as writing the right prescription. Working in Trichy also let me serve people from varied backgrounds, urban and rural, which teaches you humility and practical solutions when resources are not unlimited. I don’t think of myself as just an academic doctor or just a clinician, it’s a blend. Some days I feel like I am doing more paperwork than medicine, some days I feel proud seeing a student handle a case confidently. This balance is what keeps me steady and keeps reminding me why I joined this field.
45 days ago
5

Hi sir,

First let us find out the cause for low bmi …we need to rule out hyperthyroid and diabetes.Try to take dry fruits like cashew,badam. High calorie diet … High protein diet Syp.Aptivate 10ml morning and night time…It will improve your appetite … Thank you

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Dr. Shayeque Reza
I completed my medical degree in 2023, but honestly, my journey in healthcare started way before that. Since 2018, I’ve been actively involved in clinical practice—getting hands-on exposure across multiple departments like ENT, pediatrics, dermatology, ophthalmology, medicine, and emergency care. One of the most intense and defining phases of my training was working at a District Government Hospital for a full year during the COVID pandemic. It was chaotic, unpredictable, and exhausting—but it also grounded me in real-world medicine like no textbook ever could. Over time, I’ve worked in both OPD and IPD setups, handling everything from mild viral fevers to more stubborn, long-term conditions. These day-to-day experiences really built my base and taught me how to stay calm when things get hectic—and how to adjust fast when plans don’t go as expected. What I’ve learned most is that care isn't only about writing the right medicine. It’s about being fully there, listening properly, and making sure the person feels seen—not just treated. Alongside clinical work, I’ve also been exposed to preventive health, health education, and community outreach. These areas really matter to me because I believe real impact begins outside the hospital, with awareness and early intervention. My approach is always centered around clarity, empathy, and clinical logic—I like to make sure every patient knows exactly what’s going on and why we’re doing what we’re doing. I’ve always felt a pull towards general medicine and internal care, and honestly, I’m still learning every single day—each patient brings a new lesson. Medicine never really sits still, it keeps shifting, and I try to shift with it. Not just in terms of what I know, but also in how I listen and respond. For me, it’s always been about giving real care. Genuine, respectful, and the kind that actually helps a person heal—inside and out.
45 days ago
5

You are underweight with low appetite → first rule out medical causes, then use appetite boosters + high-calorie diet + strength training. Medicines like appetite syrups or Cyproheptadine can help short-term, but the main solution is diet + underlying cause correction

Thank you.

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Dr. Bheruram Netar
I am working in general medicine opd from 3 years now and that gave me wide exposure to all kind of patients walking in with different complain, sometimes mild, sometimes really serious. Most common I handle are seasonal allergies, gestational issues during pregnancy, diabetes and hypertension, but I also see cases of infections like dengue or malaria that need quick attention. In OPD you never know what the next case will be, one moment its a child with fever and next a adult with uncontrolled blood sugar, and I learnt to switch fast and think clear. I focus on proper diagnosis first, using detailed history and examination rather than rushing, cause many conditions overlap and can confuse. For example a viral fever might look like dengue in early days, or hypertension can stay hidden till it shows as headache or dizziness. I try to explain to patients in simple words what is happening with their health, as many come with fear and half information. Making them comfortable and giving them trust matters more than only prescribing medicines. Over these years I also developed a flexible approach in management, not every patient need same treatment plan. Like gestational diabetes require a very diff care compared to a young person with type 1 diabetes. Lifestyle counselling became important part of my practice, talking about diet, exercise, sleep routine and follow-up. Even with allergies or seasonal flu, guiding them on prevention and hygiene reduce re-occurence a lot. In opd practice volume is high and decision making has to be quick but safe. Sometimes you only have a few minutes, still I try to balance efficiency with personal care. Seeing patients recover and come back with gratitude motivate me everyday. Working across such diverse case made me more confident, but also humble because medicine is never fully predictable. There are times I doubt, recheck, ask for labs before final call, and I think that caution is also strength.
43 days ago
5

Hello dear Age 24yr height 6.1 weight 51 It’s underweight First try 1. Track your current average daily calories for 3–5 days (phone apps help) 2. Add ~300 kcal/day (example: a peanut-butter banana smoothie or a handful of nuts + yogurt). 3. Include a source of protein with every meal (eggs/lean meat/legumes/dairy). 4. Start frequent meal4-5 time a day 5. Sleep and manage stress — both affect appetite and muscle gain. If still no improvement then Thyroid test Complete blood count specially haemoglobin If u have acidity and full stomach then correct it It can be due to hookworm so take tab 1 Advice 1) Tab Albandazole 300mg 1 tab Syrup cyproheptidine 2 spoon twice a day Tab multivitamin it helps to boost hunger If still no benefit then go hospital and consult with general medicine doctor

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Addressing low weight effectively involves a multi-faceted approach. Firstly, it’s important to identify any underlying medical conditions or nutritional deficits that might be contributing to your weight loss and loss of appetite. Conditions such as hyperthyroidism, diabetes, gastrointestinal disorders, or mental health issues like anxiety or depression can impact appetite and weight. If you haven’t already, it would be advisable to schedule a comprehensive evaluation with a healthcare provider to rule out these possibilities. Once underlying conditions are considered, focus on optimizing your nutrition. Aiming for calorie-dense, nutritious foods can be beneficial. Incorporate healthy fats like nuts, seeds, avocados, and olive oil into your meals. Add more starchy vegetables, whole grains, and quality protein sources like chicken, fish, tofu, and legumes. Instead of three big meals, try smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day to make it easier on your stomach. Supplements can sometimes be beneficial. A multivitamin or a high-calorie protein shake may support your efforts as a temporary aid. However, it’s crucial these are complementary to a balanced diet rather than a replacement. Consult a dietitian for personalized advice tailored to your preferences and any dietary restrictions. Exercise, especially resistance training, can also stimulate appetite and promote muscle growth, aiding healthy weight gain. Medicines are not typically requisite to increase weight and may not address the root issue of appetite loss. Remember, before starting any supplement or making significant dietary changes, discussing with a healthcare professional ensures they align with your current health needs.

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