Tips for gaining weight

Being too thin can be unhealthy. It may mean you're not getting all the nutrients you need. As a result, you may develop health problems. Also, if you've lost weight, you may have lost muscle. Weakened muscles can increase your risk for falls and bone fractures.

Be sure to bring any sudden weight loss to your doctor's attention. A drop in pounds or appetite loss can be a sign of physical illness, difficulty absorbing nutrients or increased bodily needs. It may also be a symptom of depression or a side effect of certain drugs. Let your doctor know if you've been eating less than usual, skipping meals or experiencing other symptoms, such as fatigue or pain. After evaluating your physical health, your doctor may refer you to a nutritionist to help you regain your appetite and those lost pounds as part of your treatment plan.

Base your food choices on the USDA's Food Guide Pyramid. Generally, it's best to get no more than 30 percent of your daily calories from fat (no more than 10 percent from saturated fat). Get 50 to 60 percent of your daily calories from complex carbohydrates and 10 to 15 percent from proteins. Limit the amount of refined sugars, salt, caffeine and alcohol in your diet.

Here are some easy ways to increase your calorie intake:

Eat something every three hours. It can be a small meal or a simple snack. Try peanut butter and crackers, a fruit muffin, custard or pudding.

Drink fruit juices. They are rich in calories. One cup of orange juice, for example, has 110 calories. You'd have to eat almost two whole oranges to get the same amount of calories.

Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of nonfat dry milk to soups and sauces.

Try not to begin a meal with soup or a beverage. They may fill you up and keep you from eating higher-calorie foods.

Add raisins or other dried fruit to your morning cereal.