TROUBLE WITH WEIGHT GAIN?

Most of us are engaged in a constant battle against weight and the idea of wanting to gain weight seems absurd! "Who, what, why would anyone want to bulge up??!!!" many ask.
Its not absurd for people trying to put on a few pounds and it definitely isn't something to be jealous of.
For people who struggle to maintain a healthy weight or are trying to gain weight, it can be a real challenge.  The common reasons for needing to gain weight include health issues, lack of appetite, for sporting purposes, muscle building or just trying to overcome skinny genes.
Much as being being skinny naturally is not a real health problem, being underweight (weight as compared to height) can compromise your health. However, if you want or need to gain weight, do it the healthy way - which does not mean You stuff your face at the all-you-can-eat buffet.
For sustainable weight gain, a gradual increase of 500 kcals/day resulting in 0.5kg weight gain per week is advised. Foods rich in carbohydrates like cereals, bread and pasta should be incorporated in your daily diet as these provide you with the energy for your body. Do not neglect the proteins like pulses and nuts and
also the fats.
Here are some healthy ways to gain weight when you're underweight:

• Eat more frequently. When you're underweight, you may feel full faster. Eat five to six smaller meals during the day rather than two or three large meals.
• Choose nutrient-rich foods. As part of an overall healthy diet, choose whole-grain breads, chapattis, pastas (macaroni, spaghetti) and cereals (maize, breakfast cereals, posho, kalo); fruits and vegetables; dairy products (milk, yoghurt); protein sources (meat, fish, chicken); and nuts (ground nuts) and pulses (beans, peas).
• High calorie foods. Foods highest in calories and nutrients are those high in fat.. Plant fats from nuts, peanuts, seeds, peanut butter, almond butter, avocados, hummus and oils are great sources of healthy fats loaded with nutrients and calories.
• Try smoothies and shakes. Don't fill up on soda, coffee and other drinks with few calories and little nutritional value. Instead, drink smoothies, yoghurt and porridge with milk.   
• And most importantly: Drink fluids either 30 minutes before or after a meal, not with it, to avoid becoming full before you eat.                                                                                                       HEALTHY LIVING WITH THE DIET ASSISTANT!