17-Year-Old Male Weighing 115 lbs at 5'8"
Hello everyone, I've been feeling quite anxious about my current weight. At 115 pounds and standing 5 feet 8 inches tall, my appetite has also significantly decreased. Is there any advice you could offer, or should I be concerned about my health? I appreciate any help!
Answers (1)
8/5/2025, 6:20:51 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel worried about your weight and appetite, especially as a 17-year-old. At 5 feet 8 inches and weighing 115 pounds, your Body Mass Index (BMI) is approximately 17.5, which classifies you as underweight. This can raise concerns about your overall health, potential nutrient deficiencies, and your mental well-being.
Here are some essential points to consider and steps you can take:
Explanation
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Understanding Weight and Health: Being significantly underweight can lead to various health issues, including weakened immunity, fatigue, and developmental concerns. It’s also important to recognize that appetite changes can be caused by many factors, including stress, anxiety, or underlying health conditions.
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Recognizing Symptoms: Beyond weight concerns, evaluate whether you're experiencing any additional symptoms, such as fatigue, mood changes, or digestive issues. This context can help in determining the next steps.
Next Steps
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Monitor Your Health: Keep track of your weight and appetite in a diary for at least a week. Note any other changes in your physical or emotional health. This can help identify patterns and triggers for your appetite decrease.
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Nutritional Focus: Aim to include calorie-dense, nutritious foods in small portions throughout your day. Good options include:
- Nuts and nut butter
- Whole grains (brown rice, oats)
- Avocados
- Full-fat dairy products (if tolerated)
- Smoothies or protein shakes for easy consumption
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Increase Meal Frequency: Try eating smaller meals more frequently (5-6 times a day) instead of a few large meals. This can help increase your calorie intake without feeling overwhelmed.
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Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of liquids, but try to consume calorie-rich fluids (like smoothies or milk) instead of just water, especially if your appetite is low.
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Address Underlying Issues: Reflect on any stressors or emotional concerns that might be affecting your appetite, and consider ways to cope, such as talking to someone you trust or practicing stress-relief techniques.
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Consult Trusted Adults: If you feel comfortable, talk to a parent, guardian, or trusted adult about your feelings and weight concerns. They can offer support and help you seek further guidance if needed.
If any symptoms worsen or if you're still concerned after making these changes, it might be beneficial to reach out to a healthcare provider for professional advice. Remember, you're not alone in this, and reaching out for help shows strength.
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