Nutri Courses

Advisory

Underweight

Underweight is a condition where an individual's body weight is lower than normal for their age, height, and gender. It is a condition often associated with inadequate food intake, poor nutrition, or health problems that cause weight loss or hinder weight gain. Underweight can also result from genetic factors, metabolic disorders, or other health conditions.

From a health and nutrition perspective, underweight is often linked to a deficiency in essential nutrients that the body needs for normal growth and function. This can lead to a weakened immune system, increased risk of infections, reduced muscle mass and bone density, fertility issues, and a range of other health problems. It is important for individuals who are underweight to consult their doctor or a dietitian to identify the cause of their low body weight and develop a plan to achieve and maintain a healthy weight.

Hello,

What is your opinion on practicing intermittent fasting when underweight, where weight loss is undesirable? My BMI is on the borderline between underweight and normal, I like the benefits of intermittent fasting, but I don't want to lose weight. In this case, isn't fasting rather counterproductive?

Thank you.

Intermittent fasting is unfortunately often perceived as a weight-loss diet, which is misleading, because it depends on how you set your energy balance. The most commonly preferred 16/8 system allows for 3 meals during the feeding phase, which can be adjusted according to your own preferences - the balance can thus be negative, neutral, or even positive.

The fundamental advantage or benefit of intermittent fasting is its ability to increase metabolic flexibility, that is, the flexible capability to alternate between using carbohydrates and fats as energy sources. With a balanced energy intake, you will not lose weight...

Questions answered by

Mgr. Martin Jelinek
Lecturer and author of the educational system

Mgr. Martin Jelínek has been systematically involved in nutrition education since 1999. He is the founder of ATAC, the educational company behind NutriCourses, and the author of an educational system focused on nutrition, healthy lifestyle, and the practical application of nutrition knowledge.

He graduated from the Faculty of Science at Masaryk University in Brno. Throughout his professional career, he has combined nutrition, education, and the practical application of acquired knowledge. His educational system also includes the ZOF (Zone of Optimal Functioning) learning application, where students turn theory into practical work with meal plans.

In 2007, he launched the first intake of a six-month course focused on the education of nutrition advisors. Over time, this course became the foundation for the further development of the educational system and a range of specialised courses.

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