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Happy Tummy Expert

3 weeks ago

Dear Haritha, Thank you for the question

WHO has given different BMI (Body mass index) classifications to categorise adults into different weight categories. BMI is a simple index of weight-for-height. It can be considered as a 2^nd level indicator of overall health.

It can be calculated using a simple formula of BMI = Weight (kg) / Height (m²)

Following is the WHO BMI Classification

18.5 to 24.9 - Normal

Less than 18.5 - Underweight

25 to 29 - Overweight

Above 30 - Obese

As per WHO BMI (Body Mass Index) classification, a person weighing less than 18.5 kg/m2 is considered underweight.

Gastrointestinal digestive issues such as IBD (irritable bowel disease) requires medical attention along with lifestyle management including dietary modifications. For further diagnosis and assistance kindly contact your specialized health care professional.

IBD is a chronic, intermittent disease. The symptoms range from mild to severe and depends on the segment of the intestinal tract involved. The symptoms usually include abdominal pain, an alteration in bowel habits, constipation, Diarrhoea and flatulence. IBS/IBD can be managed by eliminating some exacerbating factors such as certain drugs, stressor conditions and changes in dietary habits. 

Nutritional Tips to manage IBS/IBD

• Too much fiber at once can cause gas, which can trigger IBS symptoms. Adding fiber to your diet slowly, may help prevent gas and bloating.

• One of the dietary factors associated with bloating is the intake and poor absorption of short chain carbohydrates called FODMAP foods. Consumption of foods that as may lead to excess gas production and poor gas clearance. In case of severe bloating abdominal pain and/or IBS try to limit the intake of FODMAP containing foods such as broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, corn, turnips, onions, peas, wheat, dairy, radishes, lentils, apples, pears etc.

• Gluten free foods are not recommended try to limit the consumption of cereal grains and other food products made from whole wheat, barley, oats, rye etc., as they contain gliadin.
• If Diarrhoea is present then limit the intake of Excess fiber and dairy products.
• If constipation is persistent then include high fiber foods with adequate fluid intake 

Sharing with you some of the Indian foods that can be eaten in management of IBS

• Rice
• Millets
• Corn
• Fresh fruits & vegetables (Limit FODMAP containing foods)
• Lean meats, eggs.
• Low fat dairy, curds, etc.

The causes of underweight or unintended weight loss can be due to genetics, inadequate food intake, stress, hormonal imbalance, malabsorption or other underlying health condition which may require medical assistance.



An ideal weight management program such as weight gain involves lifestyle management including dietary modification, regular physical activity, hydration and good sleep cycle. With any weight gain diet, changes take time to reflect as your body requires sufficient time to adapt to the changes in order to show results.

A high calorie and high protein diet is recommended for weight gain. Daily protein requirement should ideally be followed as 0.8-1g protein per kg body weight. Some of the sources of high protein include pulses, lentils, curd, soybean, eggs, lean meat, nuts & seeds etc.

Here are few guidelines that can be considered for weight gain & general digestive health.

• Have a Diversified Balanced Diet that includes all the food groups in the right quantity which thereby provides you with all the essential macro and micro nutrients that your body requires daily for proper functioning.
• Maintain a positive energy balance where the calorie intake should be more than the energy expenditure.
• Do not skip meals. Eat small frequent meals.
• Three major meals a day with healthy nutritious snacks in between is preferred.
• Try to increase the serving size and portion size gradually and systematically
• Include energy dense foods, keeping in mind the daily needs.
• Add healthy fats from nuts and seeds.
• Include protein sources (plant and/or animal sources) such as lentils, curd, lean meat, egg etc.
• Include prebiotics such as banana, soyabean etc., good sources of probiotics like yogurt, buttermilk etc., to maintain a healthy gut.
• Deep fried foods to be restricted. Method of cooking like baking, grilling, boiling, steaming is preferable over deep frying with excess fat/ oil.
• Try to limit the foods like caffeine, spices, raw onions etc.
• Food should be eaten slowly and chewed well as fast eating provokes gastric feeding reflex.
• Avoid lying down immediately after your meal consumption
• Indulging physical activity can help in increasing the appetite and give a feeling of hunger.
• Try to follow a good sleep regimen that is in terms of both quantity and quality

For further diagnosis and assistance kindly contact your specialized health care professional or a Gastroenterologist.

For a customised and personalised meal plan for specific conditions, please contact your Health care professional.

Hope we have answered your query.

Wishing you a great day ahead

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