Inadequate Weight Gain in Children

Growth charts are often used to compare a child's height and weight with the averages of other children his age. A doctor may grow concerned if your child's weight gain is slower than usual. While some children may gain weight at a slower pace due to genetic reasons, a lack of weight gain may also be the result of a serious problem.

  1. Failure To Thrive

    • Though failure to thrive is most common in children younger than age 3, it can also affect older children, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). Conditions such as heart disease or diabetes may cause a child to have failure to thrive. More often, a parent may be unable to provide the nutrition that the child needs. Early detection can prevent more serious growth problems.

    Digestive Problems

    • Celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can cause children to have inadequate weight gain. Sufferers of celiac disease may experience stomach pain, diarrhea and poor weight gain due to an intolerance to gluten, which is often found in foods such as bread, according to KidsHealth. IBD comes in two forms: Crohn's Disease and ulcerative colitis. Children who have either form of IBD may experience diarrhea with bleeding, in addition to weight loss, according to Boston Children's Hospital.

    Eating Disorders

    • If you notice that your child does not seem to be putting on weight at a typical pace, disordered eating may be a problem. Anorexia and bulimia are two common eating disorders that may lead to stunted weight gain or weight loss, according to the AAP. Children suffering from an eating disorder may show anxiety around food or may prefer to eat alone. Depression, anxiety, and a lack of energy are also common symptoms. If you suspect that your child has an eating disorder, contact her pediatrician immediately for help.

    Additional Help

    • In some cases, inadequate weight gain in children could be the result of a combination of causes. It is also possible that your child's weight gain pattern is normal and healthy. Your child's pediatrician can perform an evaluation and address any concerns you may have about your little one's weight. If your child continues not to gain weight after receiving treatment, schedule another appointment or get a second opinion.

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