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The Other Side

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Darlene Booth
R.N.C.P
.....We all know that obesity has reached epidemic proportions in our nation and it is getting a lot of media attention. We are aware of the health hazards associated with obesity and too many of us understand the pain of being caught in the cycle of dieting and trying to maintain a healthy weight. Many, myself included, are diligently fighting the battle of the bulge but there is a quieter populace that lives on the other side of the scale. While having an “overly efficient” metabolism is something I may envy, those who have trouble gaining or even maintaining a robust body mass have their own set of problems and worh ries. I am reminded of the “grass
quite high. I can only imagine that it must get tiring chewing all the time…and yes…that burns calories too.
.....Eating larger meals is the obvious way to increase calorie intake but this may not always be possible. Many people are physically unable to eat too much in one sitting and may have to rely on smaller meals at more regular intervals. The trick is to increase the caloric value of foods without adding a lot of unhealthy fats and sugars to the diet. Even those with a slim profile have to be aware of the role of unhealthy fats and sugars to the diet. Even those with a slim profile have to be
is always greener” syndrome here and have come to appreciate that their pain is not much different than my pain. We are a nation obsessed with body image and the glossy magazine images that we all subconsciously feel the need to strive for are not easily massed produced.
.....As a general barometer, being underweight is defined as having a body mass index below 18.5. Some people may well be genetically programmed toward a slender profile and be quite fit and healthy within this range but for others it may be less than adequate when it comes to supporting optimal health. One should be concerned if a low body mass is a result of dieting and especially so if the change happened without consciously altering lifestyle or diet. Sudden or rapid weight loss can be a result of eating disorders, psychological problems, drug use, thyroid problems, blood sugar disorders and other conditions that should be diagnosed and treated. If low body weight is a result of improper nutrition it can create deficiencies that contribute to weakened immune systems, osteoporosis, fertility problems and many other health issues.
.....I would say about 25% of the population has a speedy metabolism. Again I will state my envy but I have to admit that it is much cheaper to feed my slow metabolic rate. I can probably survive on 1/3 the calories than someone with a rapid one. This is pretty good news in the grocery line up or in the case of surviving a world famine. Those with a rapid metabolism are like a fire that constantly needs stoking. Their caloric intake just to maintain a healthy weight range can be		 ... aware of the role of unhealthy empty calories in undermining our health. So be mindful of choosing denser foods with higher nutritional value.
.....The addition of healthy fats such as flax oil, hemp oil and cold pressed extra virgin olive oil to the diet is a great way to increase calories with little bulk. Complex carbohydrates such as whole grains, root vegetables, beans, legumes, avocados, nuts and seeds are high quality, high density nutrition that are great additions to almost any recipe. Drinking some of your calories in the form of yogurt based smoothies and protein drinks can help round out your caloric needs as well. Never underestimate the value of protein when it comes to building a strong body and muscles.
.....Exercise is important for all body types but excessive exercise can do more harm than good especially for those who already burn more than they eat. A brisk 30 minute daily walk is heart healthy and resistance training a few times a week is optimal for building muscle mass which can tip the scales in your favour. If you find that you are like a hummingbird always on the go, find time to sit. Just sit! What a concept! Conservation is a good strategy too.
Studies are showing that there is a connection to eating less and living longer but there is a necessity to supply all the important nutrients the body needs to build and support optimal health. The challenge is to find the right balance between too little and too much. That is the key to good health and longevity.
.... Good Health to You!
 
 

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