Supplements for Women to Gain Weight

Women with low body weight benefit from nutritional support. Supplements for women to gain weight often include ingredients that are used by weightlifters, since the extra nutrients in these supplements support the healthy growth of bones as well as muscles and joint tissue, ensuring balanced weight gain. This is especially important to the eight million American women who are affected by osteoporosis.

Probiotics

Probiotics include live strains of bacteria that help the digestive system work efficiently. The same bacteria present in yogurt--e.g., acidophilus and bifidus--increase favorable microbial conditions inside the digestive tract, promoting more effective digestion through an increase in the absorption of nutrients. Where weight loss is associated with illnesses involving courses of antibiotics, probiotic supplements are an especially effective treatment to rebalance the intestinal flora. Additional benefits of taking these supplements include a better immune-system response ande a reduction in the intensity of symptoms for some allergy sufferers. Probiotic nutritional supplements are available in the form of powders, ready-made drinks or capsules.

Maltodextrin

Maltodextrin, also referred to as multidextrose and glucose powder, is a complex carbohydrate and an ingredient of supplements used by athletes to extend stamina and meet the extra energy demands of endurance sports. Complex carbohydrates--found in foods such as brown rice, whole grain breads and muesli--release their energy slowly into the bloodstream to provide sustained energy. Unlike the calories from simple carbohydrates found in processed foods such as candy bars and sodas, calories from the complex versions are less likely to be converted into stored body fat, i.e., unhealthy weight gain. This easily absorbed powdered supplement is added to milk or fruit juices and is a useful addition to the diets of those who simply cannot consume enough calories to put on weight.

Whey Protein

Whey protein is a natural by-product of cheese-making that is rich in amino acids, the building blocks of the body. It is easily and quickly absorbed by the digestive system, provides the body with antioxidants that protect bones and muscles from damage and increases immune-system activity. This supplement makes a good breakfast drink or quick additional snack when the powder is added to smoothies or mixed with milk or juices. It is especially useful for those on tight schedules because of its fast absorption rate and ease of preparation.