Problems in gaining weight + hypotension (Alli, weight loss, exercise, calories)

[franglais]

I feel like I should start this post as an apology, because my problem is the antithesis of what the forum title is. It's hard to find somewhere suitable to ask about these problems, or finding people who can relate. I understand most people are trying for the opposite and think this is a good thing to have, but it's never-the-less a problem and not so much a blessing.

I'm a man who can't gain weight. When I was a teenager I grew up very tall and spindly, and was very self-conscious about it. Now well established into my 40's I actually weigh less than I did when I was 15/16 years old (about 10 stone, 64 kg. I'm about 6ft 3"). I've had blood tests, and my thyroid checked out, and physically I'm healthy, my body fat levels are very low, and trace elements all in the right places. I do suffer from low blood pressure though (ever since I was a young child), which can leave me fatigued and quite dizzy some days, and I can't help thinking that it's related to my weight.

My diet is generally very healthy and balanced. I am not short on food/calories in anyway, and have three regular meals: breakfast, lunch time and evenings. I would say I eat more than most people I know. This past month however I've also taken to snacking between meals with many things I shouldn't be eating, but it feels like my body is calling out for even more calories. When I really push myself I sometimes gain a kilo or two, but I can't maintain it. I work most of the day sat down, although I do keep a vegetable garden as my source of exercise.

My frame is such that I don't think too much weight would suit me, but I was rather counting on the hormonal changes of later life would help me keep some weight on. I still feel quite self-conscious about this level of skinniness. I can't wear my wedding ring for example because my fingers are narrower than my knuckle so it eventually falls off.

Any advice would be appreciated.

[guidoLaMoto]

Just noticed your post by accident-- it got buried and unnoticed.


Probably your situation is "just the way you are" and no pathology is involved, but:


Your description is vaguely reminiscent of Marfan's Syndrome-- Abe Lincoln may well have had it. It's genetic and carries certain correctable problems with eyes and aortic aneurysm, and other non-correctable things like lax joints prone to dislocations & ligament injuries.


Thin body plus hypotension also suggests certain adrenal problems that are easily checked with stimulation tests. Full blown Addison's Disease usually comes on more or less suddenly and also usually associated with nausea/vomiting, but "borderline cases" do exist and have to be looked for specifically with testing.


If those aren't your problems, then you're in luck! Just go to the weight loss section here and go out of your way to eat all the things they're saying not to eat there

[Diesel350z]

You think you are eating enough but you aren’t. Keep eating even if you aren’t hungry. Do you know how many calories you are eating now?