6 Signs Of An Underweight Child

By Bharati Kumari
12 Jun 2024, 22:00 IST

As a parent, it's natural to worry about your child's health and development. But how can you tell if your child is underweight or just naturally skinny? Tap to read!

NO WEIGHT GAIN

If your child hasn't gained weight in six months, it may be a sign of an underlying issue.

VISIBLE WASTING

Severe wasting, where a child appears malnourished, is a clear indication of being underweight.

HEIGHT CONCERNS

If your child is significantly shorter than their peers or has a low height velocity, it may indicate an underweight issue.

LOSS OF APPETITE

A decrease in appetite or interest in food can lead to weight loss and malnutrition.

FATIGUE AND WEAKNESS

If your child appears lethargic or weak, it may be a sign of an underlying nutritional deficiency.

SLOW DEVELOPMENT

Delayed development, such as late walking or talking, can be a sign of an underweight child.

EXPERT ADVICE

According to Dr Praveena NB, Consultant, General Paediatrics, at Amrita Hospital in Kochi, 'Looking skinny or being a picky eater is a common complaint that brings parents to the paediatrician. Normal weight and height actually has a wide range. So kids of the same age can differ in their growth parameters depending on a lot of factors.'

CONCLUSION

If you are concerned about your child's weight or development, consult with your pediatrician to rule out any underlying health issues.