Your BMI Calculator Results Guide: Underweight

Your BMI suggests you are underweight — explore these tips and resources

Beth Howard,

AARP

Published April 20, 2023

/ Updated January 08, 2024

Photo Illustration: AARP; (Source: Getty Images)

You may be better able to fight disease and enjoy good health by reaching and maintaining an appropriate weight.

Keep in mind that BMI has its limits. BMI recommendations differ based on your gender and other variables. And as you age, your muscle tone plays a role. BMI can underestimate body fat in frail, older people who have lost muscle mass.

Tips for Underweight People Over 50

Sauté vegetables in olive oil instead of steaming or microwaving them. Add nuts or seeds to stir-fries and oatmeal and avocado to salads, or enjoy a spoonful of peanut butter or other nut butter between meals. These healthy fat sources should help you add pounds without elevating your cholesterol levels.

Drink nonalcoholic caloric beverages, such as milk or juice, with your meals and/or a nutritional drink like Boost or Ensure between meals.

If your low weight is accompanied by muscle weakness, start a strength training program with resistance bands or small weights. Stronger muscles not only help you perform everyday tasks more easily but can also add more weight to your frame and fight frailty.