#asktheexpert my kid is not gaining weight nd height properly

Question

#asktheexpert  my kid is not gaining weight nd height properly

Accepted Answer

If your 3.6-year-old child is not gaining weight and height properly, don’t worry—many kids grow at different rates. However, if the growth is significantly slow, it’s good to check the diet, digestion, and overall health.

1️⃣ What Is the Normal Height & Weight for 3.6 Years?

✅ Average weight: 13-16 kg
✅ Average height: 94-102 cm

If your child is below this range, it’s important to focus on nutrition and lifestyle.

2️⃣ Reasons for Slow Growth

🔸 Not Eating Enough Nutrient-Rich Food – Lack of protein, calcium, iron, and vitamins.
🔸 Poor Digestion – Frequent loose stools, constipation, or food intolerance.
🔸 Picky Eating Habits – Preferring snacks over full meals.
🔸 Frequent Illnesses – Recurring infections can slow growth.
🔸 Low Physical Activity – Less movement affects muscle and bone growth.
🔸 Family Genetics – If parents are short, growth may be slower but normal.

3️⃣ What to Do for Better Weight & Height Gain? ✅ Improve Diet with Growth-Boosting Foods

🟢 Protein-Rich Foods – Eggs, paneer, soya, dal, fish, chicken
🟢 Healthy Fats – Ghee, dry fruits (almonds, cashews, walnuts, dates), peanut butter
🟢 Calcium & Vitamin D – Milk, curd, cheese, ragi, sesame seeds, sunlight exposure
🟢 Iron-Rich Foods – Spinach, beetroot, jaggery, dates, pomegranate
🟢 Whole Grains – Roti, rice, dalia, oats, millets

🛑 Avoid junk food, processed snacks, excess sugar, and soft drinks.

4️⃣ Lifestyle Changes to Boost Growth

✔ Ensure Daily Outdoor Play – Running, jumping, cycling, and skipping help bones grow.
✔ Good Sleep (10-12 Hours) – Growth hormone releases during deep sleep.
✔ Regular Deworming (Every 6 Months) – If your child eats outside food often.
✔ Monitor Water Intake – Proper digestion helps nutrient absorption.

5️⃣ When to See a Doctor?

🚨 If your child is much below normal weight/height for age.
🚨 If they frequently fall sick or have low appetite, weakness, or stomach issues.
🚨 If their growth seems to have stopped completely.

If needed, a pediatrician can check for vitamin deficiencies (like iron, calcium, or vitamin D) and suggest supplements.

Would you like a diet chart for better weight gain? Let me know!