Hello Doctor,
I’m a 24-year-old female, 5’4” tall, and weigh 97 lbs. I’ve always been on the thinner side, but I’m wondering if this weight is considered underweight for my height. I don’t have any major health issues, but I sometimes feel tired and cold. Should I be concerned about my weight, and is there anything I should do to maintain a healthy balance?
Hello,
Thank you for reaching out to Dr. Galen. Please find the below response to your query.
1. Based on your height of 5’4” and weight of 97 lbs, your Body Mass Index (BMI) is approximately 16.7 kg/m², which falls below the normal BMI range of 18.5–24.9 kg/m². A BMI below 18.5 kg/m² is classified as underweight.
2. While BMI is a general guideline and does not account for muscle mass, body composition, or other factors, being underweight can sometimes be associated with fatigue, feeling cold, or other health concerns. It’s important to ensure that your diet provides enough essential nutrients to support overall health.
3. If you are experiencing persistent fatigue or other symptoms, I recommend consulting a healthcare professional to evaluate your nutritional intake and overall well-being. Adding nutrient-dense foods to your diet, such as healthy fats, proteins, and complex carbohydrates, may help in maintaining a more balanced weight. If you feel well and have no health concerns, your weight may simply be your natural baseline. However, regular check-ups can help ensure your body is getting what it needs.
Thanks
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