What is so bad about being underweight?

Question

Just wondering...people always make a big deal about how unhealthy it is to be underweight (BMI>18.5), but if one is not anorexic but eats healthy and exercises a lot and is underweight, what is the problem? I'm 20 years old, 5'1 and 93.5 lbs (BMI 17.7), how exactly is this unhealthy?

In reference to body fat when I was last tested I was at about 14%

Answer 1

Problems
Underweight individuals generally have poor physical stamina and a weak immune system, leaving them open to infection. According to Robert E. Black of the Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, "Underweight status ... and micronutrient deficiencies also cause decreases in immune and non-immune host defences, and should be classified as underlying causes of death if followed by infectious diseases that are the terminal associated causes."[1] They are also at higher risk from heart disease, blood vessel disease, and osteoporosis.

In women, being underweight can result in amenorrhoea (absence of periods) and possible complications during pregnancy.


Social Problems
The Western world is so focused today on losing weight and how so many people are overweight or obese that scant attention is paid to those who need to gain weight. Many underweight individuals seeking to gain weight would normally be discouraged or scorned for trying to gain weight. Gaining weight has only two options though - gaining fat or gaining muscle mass. Gaining muscle mass will help the body become stronger and fit, but fat plays an essential role in helping the human body function. Fat helps to regulate menstrual periods in women, and it also helps to regulate nerve functions in the brain, especially in an infant. The nerve cells are covered by a bilipid layer called the myelin sheath, which increases neuron activity.

Answer 2

Weight norms are general guidelines, and a normal weight range is dependent on sex, age, and body/bone structure. A little over or underweight are okay. Unless you have some problems with eating, then what you described is okay. A healthy diet and exercise are important. And all of our bodies change with age, so do not worry.

Answer 3

Well, you are only just underweight and your body fat is acceptable as long as you don't go any lower, so don't worry about it. I'm guessing you have a small frame as well and not a lot of muscle. If you want to increase your weight, try weight training to build muscle. HTH : )

Answer 4

Everyone is different, sometimes being underweight Can be natural caused from genetics

Answer 5

if you eat healthy and have all your vitamins, it's good. Now, if you exercise too much, you need to increase your food intake to remain healthy. Everyone's body structure is different. Some people are naturally very thin and still healthy. So it depends; if you're doubtful about your health, you should talk to a doctor.
Don't mind what others say.

Answer 6

you probably just have a good metabolism.my sister is 21,4'11,and 90 pounds.she goes to the gym almost everyday and she eats a lot of unhealthy foods.she doesnt look underweight though.

Answer 7

Not a whole heck of a lot. The first thing that comes to mind is that if you fall seriously ill, it'll be harder for you than other folks because you don't have the proper fat stores to burn off for energy when you're not able to get enough energy from your food.

Answer 8

I heard that it is recommended should a person be effected by a tramatic event (sudden death of loved one) or he/she becomes ill by an acute attack on their body by a virus, bug or what ever.

It allows stores of fat (energy) to keep the body functioning when you arn't capable of eating and fighting against the stress of illness or what ever.... it gives the body a chance to consume it's stored energy before taping those physical energies used by your body for day to day existance.

I believe this is just a suggestion but no reall basis for a person to make sure they have that baby fat attached too their hips...

Answer 9

Being underweight is a heck of alot better than being OVERWEIGHT!!

you are about right for your height. find out your body fat percentage as well

Answer 10

Nothing is wrong its just overwight people that are starting to convince some other people that the U.S. should be a fat place. I personally like petite women like in size 00-1 I dont date anything bigger than that. I mean in waist size.