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Health Risks of Being Underweight

Being underweight can lead to several health concerns, including weakened immunity, nutrient deficiencies, osteoporosis, and issues with hair, skin, and teeth. It may also result in anaemia, persistent fatigue, and menstrual irregularities in women. Addressing these risks with proper nutrition and health insurance is essential.

  • 07 Apr 2025
  • 3 min read
  • 7 views

People who are underweight their bodies may not be getting the essential nutrients required for healthy hair, bones, and skin. A number of health risks are also associated with being underweight, like osteoporosis, fatigue, anemia, issues in the menstrual cycle, etc. Sometimes genetic factors and other medical conditions also cause underweight.

We will look at the health risks associated with being underweight. Such people should look for ways how to gain weight, and also it is advised to have health insurance in order to overcome the financial distress that may come with being underweight.

Risks of Low Weight

There are a number of risks of being underweight, such as -

  • Osteoporosis Risk:

People who are underweight face an increased risk of osteoporosis. This is even more in the case of women. In a study conducted in 2016, it was highlighted that such people are more prone to fractures and brittle bones.

  • Skin, Hair, or Teeth Issues:

Another issue associated with the risks of being underweight is problems with skin, hair, and teeth. Inadequate nutrient intake can lead to problems such as thinning skin, hair loss, dry skin, or compromised dental health.

  • Frequent Illnesses:

Insufficient intake of nutrients not only affects an individual's health but also leaves individuals vulnerable to infections.

  • Persistent Fatigue:

A person who falls short of nutrients is susceptible to not only more illness but also less intake of calories, which contributes to persistent fatigue.

  • Anemia Challenges:

Low weight is also associated with anemia. Underweight individuals are more prone to low blood counts.

  • Menstrual Irregularities:

Menstrual problems are directly related to the risks of being underweight. Women who are underweight experience irregular or absent periods. This disruption in the menstrual cycle not only affects fertility but also poses potential health risks. Low weight affects women's overall health.

  • Increased Premature Birth Risks:

Another problem related to women who are low weight is an increase in premature births. Underweight pregnant women face a higher likelihood of pre-term labour, resulting in childbirth before 37 weeks.

  • Impaired Growth in Youth:

People of growing age need all sorts of essential nutrients for adequate growth and development of bones.  Low weight coupled with inadequate caloric intake may lead to a failure to thrive, hindering expected growth.

Conclusion

In this blog, we have dealt with the risks of being underweight. Low weight is associated with potential health problems such as premature births, fatigue, menstrual problems, etc. People who are underweight should look for ways how to gain weight. Moreover, health insurance is mandatory in order to keep ourselves free from financial issues in case of a health emergency.


Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the Insurance industry and products. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.

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