Fitness
Fact-checked

At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What are the Best Diet Tips for Weight Gain?

Autumn Rivers
Autumn Rivers

Though it seems like most people are concerned with losing weight through their diet, some people want to gain weight instead. Fortunately, there are a few ways to do so while remaining healthy. One of the best diet tips for weight gain is to consume a lot of protein, as this is helpful for increasing muscle mass. Not surprisingly, ingesting larger amounts of fat is another way to gain weight, but it should be the healthy kind. Of course, consuming a lot of calories in general is the main idea for gaining weight quickly, and the easiest way to do this is by eating frequent meals.

Increasing protein consumption is one of the most common diet tips for weight gain, especially for those getting regular exercise in the hopes of increasing muscle mass. Fish, chicken, and beef are all good sources of protein, and should be included in nearly every meal for the best results. Snacks throughout the day should also usually contain lots of protein, with nuts and seeds being some of the most popular protein-rich snack foods. Those who find it difficult to eat a sufficient amount of food with this nutrient in it should consider getting some protein from beverages, as well. For example, milk is considered one of the best beverages to drink when trying to gain weight, so a glass of white or chocolate milk may be a good idea.

Walnuts are high in antioxidants and good fats, which make them a good choice for someone trying to gain weight.
Walnuts are high in antioxidants and good fats, which make them a good choice for someone trying to gain weight.

Some people assume that increasing their intake of junk food is helpful for gaining weight, as fat is often mentioned as one of the most useful diet tips for weight gain. While it is true that healthy fats can help people gain weight, these are not usually present in junk food, which means that consuming fast food and dessert often can just result in obesity and clogged arteries. The good fats are usually found in foods that include peanut butter, avocado, and walnuts. Additionally, cooking with healthy fats is one of the easiest diet tips for weight gain, as doing so can add some calories without adding saturated fat. For example, olive oil and sunflower oil are two healthy alternatives to butter, so either one can be substituted in most recipes.

Even people who are trying to gain weight should avoid junk foods.
Even people who are trying to gain weight should avoid junk foods.

One of the most well-known diet tips for weight gain is to increase the number of calories consumed each day. Of course, this is easier said than done for some people, especially those who work out too much to keep weight on. Such people should consider finding a calculator that can determine their daily caloric needs based on their weight, age, and activity level. Those trying to eat enough to gain weight may also find it helpful to start eating more frequently, as five or six smaller meals a day may be easier on the stomach than three large meals.

Discuss this Article

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Walnuts are high in antioxidants and good fats, which make them a good choice for someone trying to gain weight.
      By: mates
      Walnuts are high in antioxidants and good fats, which make them a good choice for someone trying to gain weight.
    • Even people who are trying to gain weight should avoid junk foods.
      By: Justaman
      Even people who are trying to gain weight should avoid junk foods.
    • Avocados are a good source of fat.
      By: Richard Villalon
      Avocados are a good source of fat.
    • People looking to gain weight should be focused on gaining muscle mass instead of fat.
      By: Rostislav Sedlacek
      People looking to gain weight should be focused on gaining muscle mass instead of fat.