Thin
Thin
Thin (/θɪn/), derived from the Old English word þynne, is a term often used in medical contexts to describe a state or condition where the thickness of a substance or object is small in relation to its length and width, or where a person or animal has a small amount of body fat.
Medical Context
In a medical context, being thin can refer to a variety of conditions. It can be a symptom of malnutrition, a result of a metabolic disorder, or a characteristic of certain genetic conditions. It can also be a desired state for some individuals, particularly in cultures where thinness is associated with beauty or health.
Malnutrition
Malnutrition is a condition that results from eating a diet in which one or more nutrients are either not enough or are too much such that it causes health problems. It can lead to serious health issues, including stunted growth, eye problems, diabetes and heart disease. Being excessively thin can be a sign of malnutrition.
Metabolic Disorders
Certain metabolic disorders, such as hyperthyroidism and diabetes, can cause weight loss and thinness. These conditions can affect the body's ability to metabolize food and absorb nutrients, leading to weight loss even if the person is eating enough food.
Genetic Conditions
Some genetic conditions, such as Marfan syndrome and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, can cause a person to be thin. These conditions can affect the body's connective tissues, making them more flexible and less able to retain fat.
Related Terms
- Body mass index (BMI): A measure used to determine whether a person has a healthy body weight for their height. It is calculated by dividing a person's weight in kilograms by the square of their height in meters.
- Underweight: A term used to describe a person who is below a healthy weight for their height, as determined by their BMI.
- Weight loss: The process of losing body weight, typically by reducing calorie intake, increasing physical activity, or both.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Thin
- Wikipedia's article - Thin
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