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"Too" Low BMI?
How low is too low for a body mass index? I understand that anything under 18.5 is technically considered underweight but I was just wondering if anyone would like to share what they think is absolutely too low for BMI.
I am a 19yo F and my BMI is 16.58. I used to have some "disordered eating" but I am not restricting calories or overexercising, and my doctor did not appear to be overly concerned when I got my physical last week. My period has stopped, though, and I've increased my fat intake (avocados and nuts) but it has not returned (I know that I can't be pregnant, so it's not that). I eat when I am hungry, and try to not eat when I'm not hungry (though we all have those overly-indulgent days). If it has any salience, I do not eat gluten because of an intolerance that emerged roughly about the same time as my disordered eating.
If this is just the weight that my body has chosen to maintain (after being even more thin while disordered), is there anything wrong with that? I was always naturally very thin growing up, even before my disordered eating (though my BMI was around 19.5). I'm afraid that although I am fine with being this weight, others will find me too thin, and my missing period makes me nervous, but I also don't want to make myself uncomfortably full or stuff my face with unhealthy food! I'm just eating how I feel like eating, without thinking about it. Sorry for being so long and confusing!
&Thanks
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Hello.
I wouldn't say that there is anything wrong with the weight per say but the fact that you haven't gotten your period in a while should be concerning. Missing your period for long enough can make you infertile. It is possible that your body is not receiving the adequate nutrients that it needs. I'm sure the gluten intolerance does have something to do with this because it limits high calorie grains, right? (or at least to some extent) I would suggest that taking a multivitamin may help restore your period but it might also be helpful to see your doctor or a nutritionist and explain your concern. Trained professionals can inform you much better than I can. Your food choices sound healthy as well but perhaps because you have had an eating disorder in the past you already have a tendency to eat less than an adequate amount. I suggest that you eat more snacks in between meals or perhaps eat slightly larger portions than you already do. This may help. Good luck and take care!
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