High-Calorie Recipes to Gain Weight

Although many people struggle to lose weight, some people need to gain a few pounds. People with thin bodies, those recovering from an illness that caused weight loss and athletes may all need to gain weight in a healthy way. You can gain weight without harming your health by making wise dietary choices. Using healthy recipes that increase calories is an effective tool in gaining weight.

Shakes

• Milkshakes can be made with healthy ingredients. These shakes contribute calcium, vitamins, fiber and protein to the body and promote healthy weight gain. To make a banana peanut butter shake, combine 1 cup skin milk (less fat than whole milk), 4 tbsp. skim milk powder (extra protein), 2 bananas and 3 tbsp. peanut butter in a blender. Mix on medium speed until smooth and creamy. Or mix on high speed with a few ice cubes for a colder, frothy shake.

Chicken

• Chicken is a source of protein. To reduce saturated fat, avoid frying, and always remove the skin. For a healthy, high-calorie recipe for baked chicken salad, preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Combine 4 cups diced, cooked chicken with 1 1/2 cups cooked rice. Add 1 can low-sodium cream of chicken soup, 1 cup fat-free mayonnaise and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. When well mixed, spoon the mixture into a shallow glass baking dish. Cover with 1 cup lowfat or fat-free shredded cheddar cheese. Cook for 30 minutes or until the cheese is golden brown.

Snack Foods

• Fruits, nuts, dairy products and various proteins are types of healthy snack choices that can help you to gain weight. For a yogurt snack, mix 1 cup lowfat vanilla yogurt, 1/2 cup chopped walnuts, a handful of fresh fruit (blueberries, chopped strawberries, diced peaches or sliced bananas), 1/4 cup granola and a dash of honey. Mix and enjoy.