Why Is My Child Not Gaining Weight Normally?

Watching your child grow is one of the most joyful parts of parenting. So when weight gain does not seem to match their age, it can lead to worry. Some children gain weight slower than others, and while that may be normal in some cases, there are times when it signals something more.

Let’s look at the common reasons behind slow weight gain in children, and when it may be time to speak with a doctor.

What Is Considered Slow Weight Gain?

Children grow at their own pace, and short-term weight changes can happen for many reasons. But if a child consistently weighs less than expected for their age or drops on their growth chart over time, it could be a sign of failure to thrive.

This does not mean something is wrong with your child, but it does mean their body may not be getting the nutrition it needs for healthy growth.

Typical Causes of Poor Weight Gain in Children

1. Not Eating Enough

Sometimes, the simplest answer is the most common. Children may be picky eaters, may get full too quickly, or just may not be that interested in food.Infants may also have feeding difficulties such as poor latch or short feeds, when there is not enough intake.

2. Digestive Issues

If a child has a hard time absorbing nutrition because of things like lactose intolerance, celiac disease, chronic diarrhea etc. they might eat well and still be losing weight. 

3. Infections or Underlying Conditions

Underlying health conditions or frequent infections can affect appetite/energy needs. Tuberculosis and urinary tract infections are examples of conditions that may go unnoticed but can still affect weight gain.

4. Metabolic or Hormone Issues

While not common, there are some children who have conditions that increase metabolism or affect the way energy is used in the body. An example of this would be disorders of the thyroid gland or a deficiency or excess of growth hormone which would interfere with a child’s expected growth pattern.

5. Emotional or Environmental Factors

Having anxiety at home or mental health issues can also affect eating behaviors and growth, where emotional support can be just as important as a medical approach. 

What You Can Do

• Track eating habits over a few days. Note what and how much your child eats.
• Include calorie-dense foods like eggs, bananas, nut pastes, dairy, and whole grains in meals.
• Offer meals and snacks regularly and avoid pressuring the child to eat.
• Consult your pediatrician if weight gain remains low over time.

If your child is eating healthily but not gaining weight, or experiencing signs such as tiredness, short illnesses or not growing much taller, then a professional opinion is a good idea. When it comes to your child’s health, early care can help avoid long-lasting nutritional problems.

At Sugam Hospital, our pediatrician in Chromepet takes a thorough and child-focused look to find the cause and assist families with a dietary care plan.