How can I gain one pound every 3 days?
Asked by nadyamary on Jun 24, 2009
in Eating Disorders
I had an eating disorder in the past but I managed to get over it, even though I did not finish treatment. I am 5'1” and I weigh 87 pounds. I really want to gain weight fast because I feel extremely slim. In treatment, we were required to gain 3/4 of a pound every M-W-F. I want to gain a pound every 3 days until I am 110 lbs. I never was above 95 pounds. How can I gain weight fast?
Answer
To gain one pound, a surplus of 3500 calories is needed. For you, that means 2828 calories a day, since you need 1328 calories to maintain your present weight, plus 1500 additional calories to produce a three pound per week gain. But, in actuality, after a period of malnutrition, many people need between 3,000 and 5,000 calories a day to sustain weight gain. In addition, calorie intake should be increased gradually to give the body a chance to adjust. I strongly advise you seek the care of a physician while you are trying to gain. Read about how to gain weight from the Guide to Nutrition at About.com.
