In today's never ending battle of the bulge, my son, who is 8 1/2 struggles with the other end of the spectrum. I need to help him gain weight. He is 48 inches tall (the shortest in his class) and only weighs 42lbs. My husband and I are both short, so his height we're not concerned with as much, but the boy eats like a horse but can't seem to gain any weight! Any suggestions?
N.,
You might try Pedia Sure to add additional calories and switch to full fat milk, cheese etc. It sounds like he may just be a small guy. As long as he is happy and healthy, try not to worry about it much. I am certain a growth spurt will come soon.
Many blessings.
Assuming that you feel he has a problem and not just that he is petite,
If he eats plenty but does not put on weight then you need to consider gastrointestinal issues. You didn't mention any other symptoms or problems but you may want to consider whether or not he is celiac.
Just wanted to mention Salmon and avocado as healthy foods that are also good providers of calories. I also sneak butter into my daughter's food. Good luck!
My brother in law & sister gives his boys Ensure (protein drink). But make sure to talk to your doctor. Their doctor okayed it but like anything else, too much of something can be bad for them.
N.,
My son is severely underweight. He started at 2 pounds. Now he is 18 months and 19 pounds. We see a developmental specialist who put him on a high calorie diet. We add butter to his food and dry milk to his whole milk. You might consider seeing a nutritionist so they can add the right kinds of fat and not the empty calories. Best of luck to you!
A.
