SKINNY WITH A BELLY

Dear Jellybean,

Hi, im 16 years old, 5'5, and about 120 lbs. I'm really thin, but my only problem is that i think im TOO thin and i want to get rid of my belly, which isnt large or anything, but i want abs. The problem is, im not sure what I should eat and what i shouldnt, and I have no idea what kind of exercises to do. I'm worried that ill lose more weight and I dont want that. I just want to lose my belly and get abs. I also want to tone the rest of my body and look curvier instead of a stick. What workouts should I do and what foods should I eat in order to get abs, NOT lose weight anywhere else, and also get curvier?
-Clueless

Dear Clueless,

When a person is too thin, their belly often sticks out, especially if it is untoned. You're not exactly a starving child from one of those "save the children" commercials, but picture that and you'll understand that it's possible to be too skinny but still have a belly.

It sounds like you need a good nutrition and exercise program, to build body mass and lean muscle tissue, and ensure that you're getting the proper vitamins and minerals to keep you healthy and active. Because you need to be careful of not losing any more weight as you start a new exercise program, it's very important that you get an eating plan - or guidelines - that are designed with this goal in mind.

Your own family doctor may be a good resource for such help. Go see your family doctor, and ask if he/she can give you some advice, guidelines and information about an eating and exercise plan to gain weight, build muscle, and strengthen your midsection. If your family has a health plan, you may be covered for the services of a registered nutritionist as well. Your family doctor can refer you to one in your area.

Alternately, you could also talk to a registered nutritionist and/or professional fitness trainer on your own. If you already go to a gym - or if one of your parents does - you could set up an appointment with one of the trainer/nutrition experts there. Or you could phone gyms in your area and ask if it's possible to get an appointment with a fitness/nutrition expert, without having to join the gym. Make sure you ask about costs up-front, as the fee for this kind of service can vary greatly.