Doctors usually advise people who consistently weigh too little to gain weight, as this can lead to various health issues. However, bodybuilders and other athletes may also hope to gain weight by muscle building.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), underweight adults aged 20 to 39 years in the United States decreased from 3% to 1.9 percent between 1988 and 2008.
An underweight person is more likely to suffer from health problems such as:
- developmental delays infertility
- a weakened immune system
- osteoporosis
- an increased risk of surgical complications
- malnutrition
While gaining weight can be difficult, the following foods may be beneficial. They can also help you gain muscle and improve your overall health.