Every parent wants their child to be healthy and have physical growth and height appropriate for their age. When their child appears shorter than other children, parents become worried. Sometimes, they wonder if their child has a serious illness or if there’s something seriously wrong with their diet.
In fact, every child’s growth rate is different. Some children grow faster, while others grow more slowly. There are several reasons why a child’s height isn’t growing according to their age. The main reasons include:
Genetic reasons – If the parents or most family members are shorter than normal, the child’s height may also be similar. This is a completely natural process and there’s no need to worry.
Non-genetic causes – If everyone in the family is of normal height, but your child isn’t growing at the same rate, other factors may be contributing to this, such as malnutrition, frequent illness, nutritional deficiencies, hormonal problems, digestive problems, lack of physical activity, or inadequate sleep.
Many children frequently catch colds, fevers, or infections. These children’s bodies expend more energy fighting illness, which can impact their normal growth. If your child is constantly sick and isn’t growing in height, it’s important to consult a doctor.
Experts believe that a child’s height isn’t solely dependent on the nutrition they receive after birth, but the mother’s health during pregnancy also plays a significant role. These factors can also affect a child’s growth: inadequate nutrition for the mother during pregnancy and inadequate care for the child after birth. A child’s lack of participation in sports. Prolonged engagement with mobile phones, TV, or video games. Incorrect postures like sitting, walking, and sleeping, along with a lack of sunlight and physical activity, are also factors that can contribute to this.
If a child’s height isn’t increasing according to their age, the following factors should be considered:
- Maintain a balanced and healthy diet – A proper diet is crucial for children’s growth. Include milk and milk products, pulses and kidney beans, green leafy vegetables, seasonal fruits, eggs and fish, dried fruits, and whole grains in their diet.
- Outdoor play is essential – Children nowadays spend most of their time playing mobile phones and video games. However, running, jumping, cycling, and playing outdoors are essential for bone and muscle growth. At least one hour of physical activity daily is considered beneficial for children.
- Adequate sleep – Growth hormones are actively produced during sleep. Therefore, adequate sleep appropriate to children’s age is crucial.
- Take care of digestion – If the child is constipated, has an upset stomach or has digestive problems, the body does not get the proper nutrition from the food. In some cases, liver or intestinal problems can also affect the growth of the child.