One of parents’ causes of concern is the growth of their children. A pediatrician from one of the top hospitals in the country sheds light on why a kid is smaller than their peers and what are the things moms and dads can do to help their children grow.
Makati Medical Center, through its Department of Pediatrics, identifies possible causes why a child has lower-than-normal weight and height, as well as healthy ways to help them grow.
(Photo from Makati Medical Center)
According to Maria Imelda Belen Vitug-Sales, MD, pediatric gastroenterologist, a child may appear smaller than normal due to any of the following:
Genetics – Do you come from a family with a lean frame? Dr. Vitug-Sales says it is most likely the child may have inherited the same body type.
Sports – Kids active in sports tend to be leaner than their sedentary peers.
Disease – Diabetes, thyroid disease, Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), eating disorders (anorexia nervosa, bulimia, distorted body image), inflammatory bowel disease, tuberculosis, and other medical conditions could affect a child’s weight, appetite, ability to digest food or absorb its nutrients. Medication for these diseases can also contribute to poor weight gain.
To help children grow the healthy way, Dr. Vitug-Sales recommends the following:
Introduce nutrient dense high caloric food
Good-quality calories, that is. Avocado and nuts are not only yummy but also rich sources of fat. Eggs, milk, cheese, and hummus are tasty and protein-rich choices. Cereal, corn, and sweet potato are delicious and filling forms of carbohydrates.
Make mealtimes enjoyable
The pediatrician advises parents to let their kids choose their plates, utensils, and drinking glasses. Get them involved in planning the menu. Don’t force feed them or watch them like a hawk and comment at every bite they take. Dr. Vitug-Sales asserts mealtimes should be an enjoyable and relaxing family affair; when they are stressful occasions with high expectations, they kill anyone’s appetite.
Let nature take its course
It may just be a phase. However, your pediatrician may have to rule out red flags that could point out to a possible pre-existing health condition. Prepare fun and diverse meals that are appropriate for their age and get them into physical activities to stimulate their appetite.