The terms “weight gain” and “bulking” can be seen as scary terms involving an undesired amount of weight gain. Social media influences have come to bring a common theme to bulking that involves the rapid consumption of unhealthy foods from many fast food chains and restaurants. Although the goal of weight gain is accomplished through this method, it is done in a way very harmful to your body. Let’s look at ways to gain weight in a healthy way that will give your body the energy it needs as well as help you feel and look good, while gaining weight.
Choosing the Right Foods
As previously stated, it is possible to gain weight without the constant consumption of fast food and other unhealthy meals every day. Getting to know which foods to eat is a great way to start the weight gain journey. It is important to look for foods high in protein, carbs, and fats. Energy rich foods such as these could be chicken, fish nuts, fruits, and vegetables. Another great option is protein shakes. Protein shakes are a great way to have a quick meal while also gaining all nutrients needed for that meal.
Eating More Frequently
As simple as it sounds, weight gain comes with more consumption of food. Typically, the average person eats around three meals per day. When trying to gain weight, it is important to attempt to increase that number to about 5-6 meals a day. Keeping this in mind, it is important to still choose healthier foods, rather than a fast food meal filled with unnecessary fats. Although this sounds simple, eating 5-6 true meals a day can be quite hard in the beginning. You will have to train your body to be accustomed to this much food per day, and sometimes even eat when you are not hungry.
Exercise
Exercise is a great way to help you stay on track for when trying to gain weight. Exercising allows your body to use all the nutrients you are putting into your body from your meals, and helps keep you in shape. Lifting weights helps you build muscle rather than gaining fat. All the food you are consuming while trying to gain weight allows you to put on muscle quicker, while also toning your body. Exercise helps work your appetite and metabolism, leaving you hungry after working out. This leaves you open to consuming another meal and more food, for an overall healthier way of gaining weight.
Written by GUADS intern Chris, with contributions from mayoclinic.org and medicinenet.com