While the weight loss craze is in full effect right now, there are thousands and thousands of people out there who are actually trying to go the other way. Tons of people are trying to not only gain weight, but do it the right way. Of course, we could just eat more crappy food, but that is not the right way to do it. Here are three ways to gain weight in a healthy manner.
1. Eat Healthy, But Dense Foods
(source: theintell.com)
Of course, if you want to gain more, you have to eat more. But more doesn’t necessarily mean bad. All foods that are dense and heavy aren’t always terrible for you. Foods that have a lot of carbs, proteins and fats into a relatively small serving are a great way to do this. Some examples of this are dried fruits and oatmeal. Of course, keeping a balanced diet is also important, but try sneak in more healthy fats, protein and carbs when you can.
2. Eat More Often
(source: http://kabrasnutrition.blogspot.ca/)
Another key to helping you gain weight in the right way is to eat more often. No more three square meals a day, you should be doing everything in your power to eat a meal every 4 hours or so. Your body needs energy and fuel to keep going and when you go long periods without eating your body reaches into its stored supply, which often comes at the expense or weight and muscle mass. Keeping a food journal and tracking your meals can be a great way to make this transition easier.
3. Exercise and Strength Train
(source: runwaterloo.com)
No, exercise is not just for people who are trying to lose weight. While doing a ton of cardio and no weights likely wont gain you any weight, a healthy balanced workout program could have you well on your way. Increasing your lifting (and upping the weight to avoid a plateau effect) can also be very beneficial to weight gain. While a bit of extra lifting could add a few pounds here and there, it is largely going to be your dietary changes that lead to a substantial, but healthy, gain.