Why is my ribs showing

Healthy weight gain will fill you out proportionally, according to your genetic body shape. But, by eating increased portions of quality foods and building muscle with particular emphasis on the chest and obliques, you can fill out and create the healthiest- and fittest-looking body for you.

You gain weight by eating more calories than you consume. Where this weight is gained, however, is up to your body's genetics. Your rib cage should fill out along with other slender parts of your frame. Avoid getting your extra calories from refined grains, soda, sugar or saturated fat; these foods won't help you look healthier and get stronger.

Weight gain for quality muscle rather than excess body fat requires calories from nutrient-rich foods that contribute to good health. Weight training, along with the increase in caloric intake, helps promote muscle gain as well. Use targeted strength exercises as part of your comprehensive program, so you can develop the muscles around your ribs.

Read more: 20 Best Muscle Building Foods. At meals, increase your portion sizes of healthy carbohydrates, such as whole grains and starchy vegetables. An extra ounce or two of lean protein, such as flank steak or roasted chicken breast, also boosts your calorie intake as well as your protein intake, to support muscle growth.

Have an 8-ounce glass of milk — full fat is fine if you're underweight — to add calories to each meal. If your rib cage is slightly uneven or protruding, it may be due to a muscle weakness.

Your abdominal muscles play a large role in holding your rib cage in place. If your muscles on one side of your body are weaker, it may be causing one side of your rib cage to stick out or sit unevenly.

If you have scoliosis , you may also have uneven ribs. In cases of slightly uneven ribs, your doctor or physician may suggest exercises to help your muscles hold your rib cage in place. Strengthening your back and abdominal muscles can help align your rib cage and improve breathing. If your uneven side is weaker, adding extra exercise repetitions to your weaker side can help you build a more even appearance. Your doctor or physical therapist may have more exercises to help your rib cage appear straighter.

Consult your doctor before beginning any new workout. If your rib cage is slightly uneven and not causing any serious health concerns, your doctor may suggest exercises or physical therapy to correct the issue.

If the unevenness is severe, you may need surgery or a corrective brace. Slipping rib syndrome occurs when the cartilage on the lower ribs slips and moves, leading to pain in the chest or upper abdomen.

Learn about pectus carinatum, a condition that affects the rib cage and is sometimes called pigeon chest. A recessed maxilla can cause cosmetic issues like flat cheekbones and a prominent jaw, and lead to dental problems, speech issues, and obstructed…. If you do tear a meniscus, you might be tempted to "walk it off. A lateral pelvic tilt is when one hip is higher than the other. Many women with visible ribs have excellent cholesterol profiles, a perfectly normal heart and digestive system, low blood pressure, normal blood work and have beautiful skin and strong nails.

If I lift my arms, my ribs will show. They normally avoid fast food and other kinds of junk food, eating these items only occasionally. They snack on healthy foods like fruit, salads and nuts, rather than chips, ice cream, candy and cookies. Doctor Experts for this Site. Provided by CalculatorsWorld. Previous Next.

Medically reviewed by Marc I. Leavey, MD.