SAEDNEWS: For any mother, seeing her child lose weight is a nightmare. That’s why, the moment a mother notices her child shedding pounds, she consults a doctor. In this article, we explore the causes of weight loss in children.
According to the Family Service of Saed News, some children and infants appear slimmer than others, which can become a concern for mothers and parents in general. Many parents prefer their children to be chubby, seeing it as a sign of good health. However, underweight in children can have various causes and does not necessarily indicate poor health. Identifying the underlying reasons can help you choose the most appropriate treatment for your child.
In many cases, weight loss may be the first sign of a more serious medical condition. Therefore, changes in a child’s body should not be ignored. Many children experience the following symptoms alongside rapid and involuntary weight loss:
Fever
Dehydration
Reduced urination
Diarrhea or vomiting
Cough and colds
Sore throat
Chest or ear pain
Increased insomnia or drowsiness
Depression
Eating disorders such as anorexia or bulimia
Cancer
Digestive problems
If you notice any of these signs in your child, consult a doctor immediately. However, if your child has no such symptoms but is still losing weight, improper nutrition may be the cause.
To determine the cause of sudden weight loss, a gastroenterologist will perform a physical examination and review:
The amount of weight lost
When the weight loss began
Any medications or supplements your child is taking
Weekly physical activity
Swallowing difficulties
Daily alcohol consumption (if relevant)
Signs of depression or anxiety
Additionally, the doctor may order blood tests and imaging studies such as X-rays.
If medical issues are ruled out, underweight children can often gain weight through proper diet, lifestyle changes, and sometimes appetite-stimulating medications. Some practical strategies include:
Offer high-calorie, nutritious foods such as almonds, walnuts, avocado, and vegetables. Avoid low-nutrient fast food.
Involve children in preparing ingredients and cooking to encourage interest in eating.
Make mealtime enjoyable and remain patient when encouraging your child to eat.
Provide healthy, light snacks such as nuts, fruit juice, or whole-grain biscuits. Keep in mind that too many snacks can reduce appetite for main meals. Three main meals and two snacks per day are recommended.
Certain foods are especially beneficial for increasing calorie intake and supporting healthy growth:
Peanut Butter: Rich in healthy fats, peanut butter is ideal for underweight children. Adding it to meals can help increase calorie intake.
Eggs: A great source of protein, vitamin A, and vitamin B12, eggs are essential for a child’s growth.
Milk and Cream: Whole milk and cream provide carbohydrates and protein, crucial for weight gain.
Potatoes: Potatoes offer carbohydrates and essential nutrients, including amino acids that support healthy weight gain.
Red Meat and Chicken: Red meat supplies iron and fat necessary for growth, while chicken provides protein important for building muscle.
Fruits, Especially Bananas and Avocados: Bananas are high in calories and contain healthy fats and carbohydrates. Avocados, now increasingly common in Iran, are calorie- and fat-rich and excellent for underweight children. Other helpful foods include fruit juices (like orange juice), dried fruits, nuts and seeds, and tropical fruits such as papaya, mango, and pineapple, all of which contain natural sugars.
Some children are underweight due to low appetite. If your child rarely feels hungry, appetite stimulants prescribed by a pediatrician may help. If your child still does not gain weight despite consuming high-calorie foods, consult your pediatrician. Remain patient and avoid expressing worry in front of your child, as this can lead to psychological stress and reduced appetite.
