Rate of weight gain- controversial calorie needs

Hello,

Allow me to start off by saying that I am severely underweight, and want to gain weight at a good enough pace to get me out of the danger zone. Currently all online calculators agree that I require 1300-1400 calories daily to maintain. If I wish to gain a pound a week, I guessed I would have to consume 1800-1900 (currently aiming for 2000, just because its a nicer number).

However, looking around this site, most people agree that to gain weight you should consume around 3500. I ask myself, is that not too much, too quick? I mean, just as you wouldn't want someone to stop eating to lose as much weight as possible in the least possible time, you wouldn't want someone to pile on as much weight as they can either right? Either way, I'm confused, and would like someone to help me decide how many calories I should be consuming to gain weight at a good pace.

For those that suggest i should talk to my doctor, I have scheduled an appointment, but the soonest he can see me is in 2 weeks time. Until then I need a plan!

 

Thank you

If you are severely underweight and currently eating 2000 calories...I'd suggest you aim for 2 pounds per week...so that's 1000 over maintenance. Your maintenance level is surely over 1400 so I'd shoot for 2500-2800 as a minimum. Stay off the scales for at least a week though because you might see a jump in weight due to the added food and water weight :) congrats on wanting to be healthy! Its so worth it. Stay committed and remember that your life is more important than the number on the scale!

I agree with chrissy1988.... If you're going to use an online calculator set it for your target weight (BMI 20) and use that number as your baseline.... not your current weight.

An older woman might maintain on 2000 but the average teen needs about 2200-2300 to maintain their weight.  Once you start eating more there will be a short gain period but then your body will quickly rattle through the first 2200-2300 cals .... which is why you'll need 2800-3000 to keep gaining.

BTW... call your doctor again and tell them you need an emergency appointment.  Two weeks is unacceptable.

 

from the amount you are eating now id up it 200 calories every few days till you reach 2500 minimum . but phone your doctor that is crazy you need to be seen asap  h x

Or go to the casualty department at your local hospital.   I don't think you even know how ill you really are.