Several supplements can enable underweight women to gain weight, although these products vary significantly in their safety and efficacy. Sudden weight loss, particularly when accompanied by an inability to gain weight, may be a sign of a serious medical condition. For this reason, it is important to consult your health care provider if you believe you are excessively thin. A thorough physical evaluation can determine if you have an underlying physical problem.
Herbal Supplements
Several herbal supplements might help to facilitate weight gain by triggering an increase in appetite. Medical cannabis appears to effectively improve weight gain in people who are underweight, according to the American Medical Association. Herbal appetite stimulants such as blessed thistle and devil's claw may also improve appetite; however, the National Institutes of Health states that they lack compelling scientific evidence. The NIH additionally acknowledges the role of zinc, a trace mineral, for improving weight and appetite. More studies are needed to confirm the efficacy of these holistic treatment options.
Nutritional Supplements
Many weight gain supplements for women contain a high number of calories in a small serving size. Protein shakes, which are commonly marketed to athletes and body-builders, can increase the amount of calories, proteins and amino acids in an underweight woman's diet. Nutrition shakes such as Boost and Ensure are also useful as women's weight gain supplements. These are generally safe for short-term use, but consult your health care provider before using them on an ongoing basis, particularly if you have a medical condition.
Considerations
Before resorting to supplements for weight gain, consider modifying your diet to increase your total caloric intake. Mayo Clinic nutritionist Katherine Zeratsky recommends wholesome, high-calorie foods, such as nuts, cheese, lean meats, beans and whole grains to women who are trying to gain weight. Avoid foods rich in "empty" calories, such as candy bars, sodas and sweetened teas. These can suppress your appetite without adding beneficial nutrients.
Side Effects
Weight gain supplements may trigger unpleasant side effects, particularly in sensitive individuals. Protein shakes and other nutrition drinks may cause digestive upsets, such as gas, cramping, diarrhea and nausea. Devil's claw and blessed thistle, two appetite-stimulating medicinal herbs, can trigger diarrhea, cramping and irritation of the digestive tract. The most potent herbal appetite stimulant, cannabis, is associated with dozens of side effects including mood changes, anxiety, cognitive problems, fatigue and inebriation.
Warning
Some people should not use weight gain supplements. Medical cannabis is illegal in most jurisdictions; communities that permit its use generally require a physician's prescription. The NIH recommends that people with heart disease, diabetes, gallstones and inflammatory bowel disease avoid blessed thistle and devil's claw supplements. If you are pregnant or nursing, these supplements may cross into your breast milk and harm the child. Consult your health care provider for further information about whether these supplements are appropriate for you.
Member Comments