When it comes to fitness, most people talk about weight loss and a strategy of starvation is used to achieve this goal. It involves cutting down your appetite, eliminating junk food from your diet and leaving no stone unturned to get rid of the extra kilos. But, it is important to remember that there are also people struggling with low weight and have a naturally low appetite. Those who are underweight suffer from nutritional deficiencies and other health problems, which can be devastating.
If the situation is grave, then it is best to consult a nutritionist, but there are also ways that you can use for increasing your appetite naturally. This will ensure that your body is able to get the nutrients it needs to stay fit. Here are some simple tips that can help increase your appetite naturally.
Eat frequent and small meals
Rather than eating three large meals, it is best to take more frequent and smaller meals throughout the day. This prevents you from feeling excessively full and it also helps in giving your calorie intake a boost. A lot of people assume that eating three heavy meals is good for weight gain, but this does not work in favor of those who are already struggling with low appetite. Eating a heavy meal makes you feel bloated and this can lead to further loss of appetite. Thus, it is better to eat smaller portions to keep your body fed during the day.
Consume nutrient-dense foods
It is best to give preference to nutrient-dense foods, particularly those that are also high in calories. Some of the foods you should include in your diet are nuts, avocados, lean protein, olive oil, whole grains, seeds, healthy fats and dairy products.
Opt for protein-rich foods
Protein is also crucial for ensuring muscle growth and repair. Your meals should include good sources of protein, such as eggs, fish, poultry, lean meat, dairy products, legumes, lean meats and plant-based protein options like tempeh and tofu.
Keep yourself hydrated
You can prepare your body for digestion when you drink water during the day. Therefore, it is recommended that you keep yourself hydrated because this will boost your appetite and also benefit your overall health.
Exercise on a regular basis
Many people who have low weight might not exercise because they think it will make the situation worse. However, it is important to remember that when you are physically engaged, it can actually increase your appetite. It is a good idea to engage in strength training because this can help you build muscle mass. Exercise can catalyze your digestion process, which increases your appetite. It is best to do intensive training, or HIIT because this will tire you out and your stomach will demand food.
Keep track of your food intake
It is also recommended that you maintain a food diary for tracking your snacks and meals. It can help you in identifying patterns and help you ensure that you are consuming enough calories. If not, you can make the necessary adjustments.
