Although being underweight is not at the same epidemic level as being overweight, it is a problem many men and women face. According to clinical dietitian Elena Blanco-Schumacher, 8 to 9 percent of the population had a body mass index below 18.5 and falls under the American Dietetic Association definition of underweight. The health problems faced by the underweight are different from those generally associated with being overweight, but they are just as serious.
Reproductive System
Being underweight can cause immediate problems to the reproductive system of both men and women. If you are not taking in enough nutrients or if your body is unable to absorb nutrients normally, your reproductive system may not function properly. According to MayoClinic.com, a lack of vitamin B-12, zinc, iron or folic acid can lead to infertility. For women, not having enough body fat can interfere with the production of reproductive hormones like estrogen and progesterone.
Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is one long-term complication that may result from being underweight. Bones are strengthened by through activities like exercise and walking because you are forcing your bones to carry your own weight. However, if you are underweight, your bones are not bearing a load heavy enough to create the change necessary to increase strength. The reproductive health issues of underweight women can also affect their bone health. According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, estrogen helps build and protect bone mass. Low estrogen levels are a common reason for early onset osteoporosis.
Immune System
According to the UK National Health system, your body's immune system cannot function at its peak if you are underweight. This leaves you more susceptible to cold or flu viruses and will make it more difficult to beat an illness if you do get sick. Do your best to make sure you are getting the nutrients that play important roles in your immune function, such as vitamin C and iron.
Psychological Issues
Being underweight may also create psychological issues, especially for young men and women. Nutritionist Dr. Jean Mayer says, ''There is just as much misery among girls who would like to gain weight...who think nothing good is going to happen to them in life unless they can put extra weight exactly where they want it.'' These thoughts may lead to a lifetime of insecurities, even if a healthy body weight is eventually reached.
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