• Published on: May 23, 2022
  • 2 minute read
  • By: Second Medic Expert

Diet Chart For Weight Gain

  • WhatsApp share link icon
  • copy & share link icon
  • twitter share link icon
  • facebook share link icon

The best diet chart for weight gain is one that is high in protein and calories. You should aim to eat a minimum of 1,600-1,800 calories per day, with at least 30% of those coming from protein. You'll also want to make sure you're getting plenty of vitamins and minerals to support your health and help with weight gain. Consider taking a multivitamin supplement if you're not getting all the nutrients you need from food. There is no one-size-fits-all diet chart for weight gain. What works for one person may not work for another. However, a general guideline to follow is to eat more calories than you burn each day.

In order to gain weight, you need to eat more healthy foods that are high in protein and calories. Good sources of protein include lean meats, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy products, and legumes. Healthy fats such as olive oil and nuts can also help boost your calorie intake. It's important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and avoiding processed foods, sugary drinks and excessive amounts of saturated and unhealthy fats.

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as everyone's body and metabolism are different. However, here are some general tips for healthy weight gain:

1. Eat plenty of protein. Protein is essential for building muscle mass.

2. Eat regular meals and snacks throughout the day. This will help keep your blood sugar levels stable and prevent cravings for unhealthy foods.

3. Avoid processed foods, sugary drinks, and junk food. These foods are high in calories but low in nutritional value.

4. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. These nutritious foods are low in calories but high in fiber and other essential nutrients.

5. Drink plenty of water

Consume more calories than you burn. This can be done by eating more meals throughout the day, and by including high-calorie foods in your diet. Eat a balanced diet that includes plenty of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. Avoid processed foods and sugary drinks. Drink plenty of water and other healthy beverages. Make sure you're getting enough vitamins and minerals. Exercise regularly.

A healthy, balanced diet that includes plenty of protein, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats is typically best for weight gain. In addition, it's important to make sure you're taking in enough calories each day - you may need to consume more than you're currently eating in order to gain weight. And finally, make sure you're getting plenty of exercise - lifting weights and doing resistance training are especially helpful for gaining muscle mass and adding weight.

Some basic tips for healthy weight gain include eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats. It's also important to drink plenty of water and avoid sugary drinks and processed foods. If you're looking to specifically add pounds, focus on eating more calories than you burn each day. This can be done by adding extra servings of healthy foods or by snacks between meals. It's also important to exercise regularly to help with weight gain. Some tips for gaining weight healthily include eating regularly throughout the day to keep your metabolism going, eating high-calorie snacks and meals between regular meals, and choosing calorie-rich foods like nuts, nut butters, avocado, cheese, oily fish, and whole grains. In addition, make sure to drink plenty of fluids and exercise regularly to help burn off excess calories.

In addition, you may want to consider adding some supplementary foods or supplements to help boost your calorie intake and support healthy muscle growth. Some good options include whey protein powder, maltodextrin powder, and weight gainer shakes. Be sure to speak with a doctor or nutritionist before making any changes to your diet.

A balanced diet chart for weight gain should include a variety of foods from all the food groups. It's important to eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein sources in order to provide your body with the nutrients it needs to grow muscle and gain weight.

Some good choices for protein include beef, chicken, pork, fish, eggs, dairy products, legumes, and nuts. You'll also need to make sure you're drinking enough fluids and getting regular exercise in order to help promote healthy weight gain.

Read Blog
Sadness is a normal emotional

Difference Between Sadness and Depression: Understanding Normal Emotions vs Mental Illness

Feeling low or unhappy is a part of being human. However, not all low moods are the same. Many people confuse sadness with depression, which can delay proper support and treatment. Understanding the difference between sadness and depression is crucial for mental health awareness, early intervention and reducing stigma.

In India, mental health conditions are often misunderstood, with emotional distress frequently dismissed as temporary sadness.

 

What Is Sadness?

Sadness is a normal human emotion.

It usually occurs due to:

  • loss or disappointment

  • relationship issues

  • failure or stress

  • temporary life challenges

Sadness serves a psychological purpose, allowing individuals to process emotions and adapt.

 

Key Characteristics of Sadness

Sadness is:

  • situational

  • temporary

  • emotionally painful but manageable

  • responsive to support and positive events

A person experiencing sadness can still function, enjoy moments and feel hopeful.

 

What Is Depression?

Depression is a medical condition classified as a mood disorder.

It affects:

  • emotions

  • thinking patterns

  • behaviour

  • physical health

According to WHO, depression is one of the leading causes of disability worldwide.

 

Core Symptoms of Depression

Depression involves a combination of symptoms such as:

  • persistent low mood

  • loss of interest or pleasure

  • fatigue

  • sleep disturbances

  • appetite changes

  • feelings of worthlessness

  • difficulty concentrating

These symptoms last at least two weeks or longer.

 

Duration: A Key Difference

One major difference lies in duration.

Sadness:

  • lasts hours or days

  • improves with time

Depression:

  • lasts weeks or months

  • persists despite positive events

Duration helps distinguish emotional response from illness.

 

Impact on Daily Functioning

Sadness:

  • allows continuation of work and relationships

  • may reduce motivation temporarily

Depression:

  • interferes with work, studies and relationships

  • reduces self-care and productivity

Functional impairment is a defining feature of depression.

 

Emotional Experience: Sadness vs Depression

Sadness:

  • allows emotional range

  • moments of joy still occur

Depression:

  • creates emotional numbness

  • joy and interest disappear

People with depression often describe feeling empty rather than sad.

 

Physical Symptoms in Depression

Depression is not only emotional.

Physical symptoms include:

  • chronic fatigue

  • body aches

  • headaches

  • digestive issues

ICMR mental health studies highlight the physical burden of depression.

 

Thought Patterns and Self-Perception

Sadness:

  • thoughts remain realistic

  • self-worth is preserved

Depression:

  • negative self-talk dominates

  • feelings of guilt and worthlessness increase

These cognitive changes deepen emotional suffering.

 

Risk Factors for Depression

Factors increasing depression risk include:

  • chronic stress

  • trauma

  • family history

  • medical illnesses

  • hormonal changes

NFHS-5 data indicates rising mental health concerns among young adults.

 

Can Sadness Turn Into Depression?

Yes, prolonged or unresolved sadness can progress into depression.

This is more likely when:

  • stressors are ongoing

  • support systems are weak

  • coping mechanisms are limited

Early emotional support can prevent progression.

 

When to Seek Professional Help

Seek help if:

  • low mood lasts more than two weeks

  • daily functioning is affected

  • sleep and appetite are disturbed

  • thoughts of self-harm occur

Early care leads to better outcomes.

 

Treatment Differences

Sadness:

  • improves with rest, support and time

Depression:

  • requires psychotherapy

  • may need medication

  • benefits from structured care

WHO emphasises early treatment to reduce disability.

 

Role of Social Support

Support systems help both conditions but are essential for recovery.

Depression recovery improves with:

  • understanding family

  • supportive workplaces

  • accessible mental healthcare

Stigma reduction is key.

 

Mental Health Awareness in India

Mental health remains underdiagnosed in India.

NITI Aayog reports:

  • limited access to mental health services

  • low awareness

  • high stigma

Education helps bridge this gap.

 

Importance of Early Recognition

Recognising depression early:

  • prevents worsening

  • reduces suicide risk

  • improves quality of life

Delay increases suffering and complications.

 

Supporting Someone With Depression

Helpful actions include:

  • listening without judgement

  • encouraging professional help

  • avoiding minimising feelings

Compassion is more effective than advice.

 

Conclusion

Understanding the difference between sadness and depression is essential for emotional wellbeing and mental health care. Sadness is a natural, temporary response to life events, while depression is a serious medical condition that affects thoughts, emotions and daily functioning. Recognising the signs early and seeking appropriate help can prevent long-term suffering and promote recovery. Mental health deserves the same attention and care as physical health.

 

References

  • World Health Organization (WHO) – Depression and Mental Health Disorders

  • Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) – Mental Health Research and Burden

  • National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) – Mental Health Indicators

  • Lancet – Depression, Disability and Public Health

  • NITI Aayog – National Mental Health Policy and Awareness Reports

  • Statista – Global and Indian Mental Health Trends

See all

Live Doctor consultation
Live Doctor Chat

Download Our App & Get Consultation from anywhere.

App Download
call icon for mobile number calling and whatsapp at secondmedic