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How to gain weight as a woman?

, medical expert
Last reviewed: 07.06.2024
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Gaining weight is an important issue for some women, especially if they believe their weight is below normal or they want to improve their physical health and appearance. However, it is important to do so in a healthy and safe manner. Here are some guidelines for women who want to gain weight:

Consultation with a doctor

Before starting a weight gain program, it is important to consult with a doctor or nutritionist. Your doctor can determine your current health status and advise you on how much weight you need to gain.

Nutrition

Your diet should be rich in protein, carbohydrates and healthy fats. Include foods such as meat, fish, eggs, nuts, seeds, dairy products, fruits, vegetables and grains in your diet. Gradually increase the number of calories you consume.

Increase your food intake

Increasing your food intake can be one way to gain weight, but it's important to do it correctly and to consider your needs and personality. Here are some tips on how to increase your food intake for weight gain in women:

  1. Increase the number of meals: Try to increase the number of meals you eat during the day. Instead of three main meals, eat five or six small meals.
  2. Increase portions: Gradually increase the portion size of your meals. This may include increasing the amount of protein, carbohydrates, and fat in each serving.
  3. Add dense calories: Choose foods that are rich in calories and nutrients. For example, nuts, seeds, avocados, olive oil and butter can be good sources of calorie dense foods.
  4. Eat more calorie-dense foods: Choose foods that have more calories per 100 grams. For example, choose higher-fat meats, high-fat dairy products, and calorie-dense nuts.
  5. Drink calories: Incorporate calorie-dense drinks such as juices, milkshakes, smoothies or sports drinks into your diet.
  6. Choose high-protein foods: Protein is important for muscle growth, so make sure you have enough protein in your diet. Meat, fish, eggs, cottage cheese, buckwheat and legumes are good sources of protein.
  7. Eat calorie-dense snacks: You should always have healthy, high-calorie snacks on hand, such as nuts, dried fruit, or Greek yogurt.
  8. Prepare food ahead of time: Prepare some meals and snacks ahead of time to be able to have quick snacks throughout the day.
  9. Drink water between meals: Water is best consumed between meals so as not to create a feeling of satiety and reduce appetite.
  10. Stick to yourregimen: Try to follow a regular eating schedule and don't skip meals.
  11. Monitor your progress: Keep records of what you eat and the progress you make. This will help you evaluate which diet and lifestyle changes are most effective.

Nutritional calories

To gain weight in a woman, it is important to increase caloric intake, but it must be in a balanced and healthy way. Here are some practical tips on how to increase your caloric intake:

  1. Increase the number of meals: Instead of three main meals, eat 5-6 times a day, including small snacks in between. This will help you consume more calories.
  2. Nutrient-dense breakfasts: Breakfast should be calorie-dense and nutrient-dense. Include foods rich in protein and carbohydrates such as scrambled eggs with vegetables, oatmeal with nuts and fruits, yogurt with honey, etc.
  3. Protein: Increase your protein intake. Protein not only helps in gaining muscle mass, but also contains a higher number of calories per gram than carbohydrates and fats. Include meat, fish, eggs, legumes, nuts and dairy products in your diet.
  4. Fats: Choose healthy fats such as olive oil, avocados, nuts and fish, which are higher in calories.
  5. Carbohydrates: Include carbohydrates in the form of whole grain breads, potatoes, quinoa, rice and other grains. They can also help increase your calorie intake.
  6. Dairy products: Drink milk, yogurt and kefir. They are rich in calcium and calories.
  7. Fruits and nuts: Eat fruits and nuts as snacks. They contain extra calories and nutrients.
  8. Juicesand smoothies: Drink juices, smoothies and milkshakes to increase your caloric intake of liquids.
  9. Gradually increase portions: Increase portions gradually so that you don't feel like overeating or overloading your stomach.
  10. Relieve stress: Stress can reduce appetite. Practice relaxation and stress management techniques to improve your appetite.
  11. Physical activity: Strength training can help you gain muscle mass, which also contributes to weight gain. Talk to a trainer to develop an exercise program.
  12. Control your alcohol intake: Avoid excessive alcoholconsumption as it can suppress your appetite and have a negative impact on your health.

Stress exercises

Engaging in physical activity, such as strength training and lifting weights, can help you gain muscle mass instead of gaining fat. Regular exercise can help you improve your appetite and use extra calories for muscle growth.

Healthy sleep

Good sleep is important for normal metabolism and muscle growth. Try to get enough quality sleep each night.

Avoid stress

Stress can affect appetite and metabolism. Practice relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation to manage stress.

Keep track of your progress

Keep records of what you eat and the progress you make in gaining weight. This will help you evaluate which diet and lifestyle changes are most effective.

Patience

Gaining weight can require patience as it is a process that can take some time. It is important to stick to the plan and follow the guidelines to achieve the desired results. Here are some tips on how to maintain patience during the weight gain process:

  1. Set realistic goals: Set realistic goals for weight gain. Calculate how many calories you need to consume per day to reach your desired weight and set interim goals.
  2. Keep afood diary: Keeping a food diary will help you keep track of what and how much you eat. This will allow you to see your progress and make adjustments to your diet.
  3. Keeptrack of yourphysical activity: Keep track of your workouts and physical activity. This will help balance calories so that weight gain is healthy.
  4. Create a supportive environment: Discuss your goals with your family and loved ones. Ask them to support you and create a supportive environment for weight gain.
  5. Remind yourself of your goals: Regularly remind yourself of why you decided to gain weight. Visualize your goals and motivation.
  6. Be patient in phases of difficulty: The weight gain process can have phases where weight changes slowly or not at all. Do not be discouraged and patiently continue to work towards your goals.
  7. Work with professionals: If you have medical or dietary questions, talk to your doctor or dietitian. They can help you develop a personalized nutrition and exercise plan.
  8. Pay attention to your health: Weight gain should be healthy and balanced. Pay attention to your overall health and do not forget the importance of nutrients and physical activity.
  9. Monitor yourprogress: Measure your weight regularly and take "before" and "after" photos. This will help you see results and motivate yourself.
  10. Surround yourself with support: Socializing with other people who are also trying to gain weight can be helpful. Sharing information and experiences can keep you motivated.

Remember, it is important to approach weight gain with your individual health and needs in mind. If you have specific medical concerns or questions, it is always best to consult with a doctor or nutritionist to develop a safe and effective weight gain plan.

What foods can make a woman gain weight?

To gain weight in a healthy way, a woman should increase her calorie intake and focus on nutritious foods rich in protein, carbohydrates and healthy fats. Here is a list of foods that can help you gain weight:

  1. Store Protein Products:

    • Chicken meat, turkey and other types of poultry.
    • Beef, pork, lamb and other meats.
    • Fish, especially fatty varieties such as salmon, sardines and tuna.
    • Eggs.
    • Dairy products: milk, yogurt, cottage cheese, cheese.
  2. Carbohydrates:

    • Whole grain products: oats, rice, buckwheat, quinoa, whole grain bread.
    • Batatas and potatoes.
    • Whole wheat pasta and meatballs.
  3. Healthy Fats:

    • Nuts: walnuts, almonds, cashews.
    • Seeds: flaxseed, chia, mustard.
    • Oils: olive oil, vegetable oil, avocado.
  4. Healthy Snacks:

    • Avocados: add to salads or make guacamole.
    • Nut butters and nut butter creams for bread.
    • Dried fruits such as figs, raisins, apricots.
  5. Raw materials for Smoothies and Protein Cocktails:

    • Bananas, berries, sports protein powders.
    • Milk, yogurt or milk substitutes.
  6. Additions to the Meals:

    • Olive oil or avocado oil in salads.
    • Cheese, dairy products in dishes.
  7. High Calorie Sauces and Condiments:

    • Guacamole, mayonnaise, olive oil.
    • Honey, syrups to add to smoothies and cereal.
  8. Protein Bars and Cereal Bars:

    • They can be a good snack between main meals.
  9. Prepared Products:

    • Many foods such as protein bars, buckwheat, omelets, and others are available in ready-to-eat form.
  10. Dense Drinks:

    • Juices, smoothies and shakes flavored with bananas, berries, nuts, honey and milk.

What to drink to gain weight for a woman?

To gain weight, it is important for women to not only increase their caloric intake through food, but also pay attention to beverages to provide additional calories and nutrients to the body. Here are a few beverages and strategies that can help with weight gain:

  1. Milk:

    • Drink whole milk or high-fat dairy products such as cream and yogurt.
    • Milk is rich in calcium, protein and other nutrients.
  2. Juices and Smoothies:

    • Prepare juices and smoothies from fresh fruits and vegetables, adding honey, yogurt, nuts or bananas for extra calories.
    • Pay attention to fruits that are high in calories, such as bananas and mangoes.
  3. Protein Cocktails:

    • Try protein powders that can be added to milk or smoothies.
    • Protein shakes can help increase protein in your diet.
  4. Cocoa and Hot Chocolate:

    • Hot chocolate with milk and cream can be a good way to add calories and nutrients.
  5. Protein Drinks:

    • Try protein drinks that are available in stores. They may contain protein, carbohydrates, and calories.
  6. Replace Water:

    • Instead of plain water, drink nonfat milk, coconut milk, juices or smoothies.
  7. Carbonated Beverages:

    • Avoid excessive consumption of carbonated drinks as they can reduce appetite. Prefer more nutritious options.
  8. Coffee and Tea:

    • Coffee and tea can be consumed, but don't overdo it as they can suppress your appetite.
  9. Extra Calories:

    • Keep in mind that adding honey, syrups, nut butters and other high-calorie ingredients to drinks can increase their calorie content.

In addition to drinks, it is also important to watch your overall diet and maintain a healthy balance of proteins, carbohydrates and fats. If you have medical concerns or doubts about weight gain, it is best to consult a doctor or nutritionist to develop a personalized plan.

Can beer make a woman gain weight?

Yes, drinking beer can contribute to weight gain in women, as it is a drink that contains calories, especially if consumed in large quantities. However, it is worth remembering that gaining weight through beer can also have negative health consequences, as well as affecting overall fitness.

Here are some important points to consider:

  1. Calories in beer: Beer contains calories, mostly from alcohol and carbohydrates. Consuming large amounts of beer can lead to excess calorie intake and consequently weight gain.
  2. Effects on general health: Before drinking alcohol, including beer, it is worth considering its negative effects on the body. Alcohol can increase the risk of various diseases and affect the function of the liver, heart and other organs.
  3. Fat distribution: Consuming large amounts of beer can contribute to fat accumulation in the abdominal area, which is known as "beer belly". This can be undesirable from an aesthetic and health perspective.
  4. Moderation: If you choose to drink beer, do so in moderation. It is recommended that you stick to a level of alcohol consumption that is considered safe from a health point of view. This level may vary depending on the country and the recommendations of medical organizations.
  5. Doctor's tip: If you have medical contraindications or conditions related to alcohol metabolism, be sure to consult your doctor before drinking beer or other alcoholic beverages.

What hormone makes women gain weight?

Weight gain in women and men can be regulated by different hormones. One of the most important hormones affecting metabolism and weight regulation in women is estrogen.

Estrogens are female sex hormones that are released in the ovaries. They play a role in regulating metabolism and fat distribution in the body. Estrogens can affect the following aspects:

  1. Fatdistribution: Estrogens promote fat accumulation in the thighs, buttocks and breasts. This explains the differences in fat distribution between women and men.
  2. Metabolism: Estrogens affect the rate of metabolism. Changes in estrogen levels in the body, such as during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, or menopause, can affect metabolic efficiency.
  3. Appetite and mood: Some women may notice changes in appetite and mood depending on the phase of their menstrual cycle, which can also affect caloric intake.
  4. Thyroid hormones: Estrogens can interact with thyroid hormones, which control metabolism.

However, it is worth noting that weight gain depends on many factors, not only hormones. It includes nutrition, physical activity, genetic background, lifestyle and many other aspects. Activity level and calorie intake also play an important role in weight control.

If you have specific weight problems or hormonal changes, it is best to see a doctor or endocrinologist. They can make the necessary tests and recommendations to address specific problems.

How to gain weight for a woman after the age of 40?

Gaining weight in women after 40 can be more difficult due to changes in metabolism and hormones, but it is still possible with the right approach. Here are some tips that can help you gain weight in a healthy way at this age:

  1. Balanced nutrition:

    • Increase your caloric intake with your activity and goals in mind.
    • Pay attention to protein, carbohydrates and fats. Protein helps maintain muscle mass, while carbohydrates and fats provide energy.
    • Stick to a food plan that includes a variety of foods such as vegetables, fruits, grains, dairy products, meat and fish.
    • Drink adequate amounts of water.
  2. Proper snacking:

    • Include healthy snacks in your diet between meals to increase your total calorie intake.
    • Nuts, seeds, dried fruit, yogurt, fruit with nut butter are good choices for snacking.
  3. Exercise and physical activity:

    • Regular strength training will help you maintain or increase muscle mass, which is important when gaining weight.
    • Aerobic exercise is also important for overall health and physical activity.
    • Talk to your trainer about an exercise program that fits your goals.
  4. Sleep and stress:

    • Go to bed early and get adequate sleep.
    • Manage stress through relaxation, meditation and other techniques.
  5. Medical Counseling:

    • Before starting a weight gain program after age 40, it is recommended that you consult a doctor or nutritionist. They can assess your health and develop a plan of action.
  6. Progression:

    • Weight gain should be gradual and healthy. Avoid extreme diets and sudden changes in diet.
  7. Support and motivation:

    • Get support from family and friends who can help you reach your goals.
    • Keep a food and physical activity diary to track your progress and motivate yourself.

How to gain weight for a woman after the age of 50?

Weight gain for women after age 50 can be caused by a variety of factors, including changes in metabolism, hormonal changes, and structural changes in the body. However, it is important to follow healthy principles to achieve this goal. Here are some guidelines:

  1. Balanced nutrition:

    • Increase your caloric intake based on your activity level and weight gain goals.
    • Pay attention to protein, carbohydrates and fats. Protein helps maintain muscle mass, while carbohydrates and fats provide energy.
    • Stick to a varied diet including vegetables, fruits, whole grains, dairy products, meat, fish and nuts.
    • Drink adequate amounts of water.
  2. Exercise and physical activity:

    • Engage in regular strength training to maintain or increase muscle mass.
    • Incorporate aerobic exercise into your program to keep you overall healthy and active.
    • Consult with a trainer or physical therapist to develop a safe and effective exercise program.
  3. Proper snacking:

    • Include healthy snacks between meals to increase your total calorie intake.
    • Nuts, seeds, dried fruit, yogurt, kefir and milk are good options for snacking.
  4. Medical Counseling:

    • Before starting a weight gain program after age 50, it is recommended that you consult with a doctor or nutritionist. They can assess your health and develop a plan of action, taking into account possible medical problems.
  5. Progression:

    • Weight gain should be gradual and healthy. Avoid extreme diets and sudden changes in diet.
  6. Support and motivation:

    • Get support from family and friends who can help you reach your goals.
    • Keep a food and physical activity diary to track your progress and motivate yourself.
  7. Stress management and sleep:

    • Stress and lack of sleep can have a negative impact on appetite and overall health. Pay attention to relaxation techniques and make sure you get enough sleep.
  8. Healthy Lifestyle:

    • Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption as they can negatively affect your health.

How to gain weight for a woman after the age of 60?

Gaining weight for women after the age of 60 can be more challenging, but it is still possible with healthy principles. It is important to stick to a balanced diet and take into account the changes that occur in the body as we age. Here are some tips:

  1. Nutrient Dense and Nutritious Meals:

    • Include protein, carbohydrates, and fats in your diet. Protein helps maintain muscle mass, while carbohydrates and fats provide energy.
    • Increase your calorie intake, but do it healthily, avoiding overeating.
  2. Protein:

    • Make sure your diet contains enough protein to maintain muscle mass. Include meat, fish, eggs, legumes, nuts and dairy products.
  3. Carbohydrates and Grains:

    • Include whole grain products, vegetables and fruits in your diet to get complex carbohydrates and dietary fiber.
  4. Proper Snacks:

    • Have healthy snacks between meals to maximize your caloric intake.
  5. Exercise and Activity:

    • Engage in regular exercise, including strength training, to maintain muscle mass and overall health.
    • Activity such as walking, swimming or yoga can be good for your overall health.
  6. Medical Counseling:

    • Before starting a weight gain program after age 60, it is recommended that you consult with a doctor or nutritionist. They can assess your health and develop a plan of action.
  7. Progression:

    • Weight gain should be gradual and healthy. Avoid fast and extreme diets.
  8. Healthy Lifestyle:

    • Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption as they can negatively affect your health.
  9. Sleep and Stress:

    • Get adequate sleep and manage stress. Sleep and stress can affect appetite and overall health.
  10. Support and Motivation:

    • Get support from family and friends who can help you reach your goals.

How to gain weight in old age for a woman?

Gaining weight in old age may be necessary in certain situations to maintain overall health and wellness. However, it is important to do so in a healthy and safe way. Here are some guidelines for older women who want to gain weight:

  1. Nutrition: Increase your caloric intake to create a caloric surplus. Include more calorie-dense foods in your diet, such as nuts, seeds, butter, cheese, high-fat dairy products, meat and fish.
  2. Protein: Try to increase your protein intake as it is important for muscle health. Include meat, poultry, fish, dairy products, legumes and eggs in your diet.
  3. Carbohydrates: Carbohydrates should also be part of your diet. Choose quality carbohydrates such as whole grain breads, vegetables, fruits and cereal.
  4. Healthy Fats: Include healthy fats in your diet such as olive oil, nuts, avocados and fish rich in Omega-3 fatty acids.
  5. Regular meals: Divide your daily meals into several meals to increase your total calorie intake.
  6. Physical activity: Professional physical activity can help you build muscle mass, not just fat. Talk to your doctor about which exercises are right for you.
  7. Medical consultation: If you experience involuntary weight loss or have a medical problem, consulting a doctor is a must. Weight loss can be due to various medical reasons that need to be identified and treated.
  8. Nutrition Support: If needed, see a dietitian or nutritionist to develop an individualized meal plan to meet your needs.

Healthy weight gain should be based on proper diet, physical activity, and doctor's recommendations. Don't try to gain weight through unreliable methods or a predominance of high-calorie but unhealthy foods.

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