There are many reasons why someone may be underweight, including depression, stress and illness.
We hear a lot about the epidemic of obesity, but very little about the health dangers of being underweight. According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, a healthy weight is one that falls between 18.5 and 24 on the body mass index (BMI) chart. A BMI of less than 18.5 is considered to be underweight.
Weakened Immune System
Our bodies need the nutrients and energy food provides to help fight off illness and infection. An underweight person may be more susceptible to getting sick, and when he or she does get sick, it can take longer to recover.
Hair Loss
Malnutrition and dehydration can lead to hair loss. Just like the body, the hair needs certain vitamins and nutrients, such as iron and vitamin B, to be healthy. When someone is underweight, he or she may experience hair loss from lack of proper nutrition.
Osteoporosis
Calcium and vitamin D are essential to keeping bones strong. Someone who is underweight may be deficient in these nutrients and develop osteoporosis, a disease in which the bones become weak and can break more easily. According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, adults under the age of 50 need a total of 1,000 milligrams of calcium per day. Adults over 50 need 1,200 milligrams per day.
Hormonal Complications
In women, being underweight can cause problems with hormone production and lead to missed or irregular periods. Low body weight can also cause issues with fertility and make it difficult for a woman to become pregnant.
Tags: According National, being underweight, hair loss