Am I normal?

Hi I saw my doctor a couple of days ago and we kinda spoke about me being underweight. She said she can get a dietrician to speak to me but she said girls get self conscous of there weight. I'm not sure I really want to go back to the doctors, but I'm a bit worried coz I know I eat badly but it's not to be skinnier. Eating with other people is hardest, better when I'm on my own. Is this just normal? Thanks sorry if this is stupid question!



Matt C replies:


Hello, Thank you for your question, and of course its not a stupid one!
A lot of people have concerns around food and eating and all for their own unique reasons.

I do hope you go back to see your doctor again as they are offering you help, and they do sound like they are taking a sensitive approach.

You say you are eating 'badly' but not to be skinnier. The referral could be worth accepting as the dietician can help you sort out ways to make how you are eating healthier for you.
You could also take a look around the Food Pyramid website (just 'google' food pyramid and you'll find it)which shows you all the different food groups that are important to us nutritionally.
But you are underweight, and you do sound self-conscious around eating with other people. Is there anyone who you would feel comfortable with enough to be able to discuss this with? If you are still at school there may be a counsellor or nurse you could see, or a trusted friend or relative? How we eat and how we feel about food can reflect how we feel about ourselves in so many ways.
So dealing with the problem by looking at the emotional as well as nutritional side can be a positive approach.

Being underweight can be just as unhealthy for us as being over weight. Your doctor is offering help and support - could you explain to them what you have described here in your post so they understand better?

Good luck and good health

Matt C