If the child weighs too little
In this country, underweight children are often associated with developing countries and poverty. But even in Switzerland, it is not uncommon for children to be underweight. In our country, however, it is not so much the result of malnutrition, but can under certain circumstances be an indication of the existence of a long-term or chronic illness.
But don't panic: Not all underweight children are automatically ill. It is completely normal for weight to fluctuate during growth. Even a brief drop from one percentile or weight curve to a lower one is no cause for concern.
These tables always refer to an average development of height and weight and therefore offer little leeway for individual growth phases. Genetic predispositions, current life circumstances and different growth cycles, among other things, have an influence on development in childhood.
Subjective comparisons with schoolmates and neighbours are therefore not suitable for drawing meaningful conclusions and can cause unnecessary concern. Instead, compare your child with their previous measurements. If the weight falls or stagnates over several measurements or if the figures are otherwise conspicuous, further clarification from the paediatrician should follow.
Consequences of being underweight
For example, a visit to the doctor is advisable if the weight loss is accompanied by abdominal pain and/or diarrhoea. These signs may indicate a food intolerance such as lactose intolerance.
However, being underweight can also lead to secondary problems in children, regardless of intolerances or illnesses. The growing body needs sufficient nutrients and energy. If these are lacking, physical and mental development can be impaired. Being underweight can also weaken the immune system. This makes children more susceptible to infections, which in turn can lead to weight loss.
Calories march, but without a limit?
Regardless of the cause, underweight children need adequate nutrition to increase their weight and promote health. If an unbalanced or inadequate diet is the reason for the underweight, a high-calorie diet and snacks can help to eliminate the deficit. If underweight children are also «greedy», it is tempting to increase their calorie intake with sweets and chocolate. However, this should only be resorted to in acute phases. They provide energy, but hardly any vitamins and nutrients that are relevant for growth.
Snacking often comes at the expense of main meals and can therefore promote unfavourable eating patterns. When consumed in large quantities, sugar can also increase the risk of various cardiovascular diseases and type 2 diabetes mellitus in old age. The focus should therefore continue to be on wholesome meals and snacks. Feel free to generously enrich your menu with calorie-dense foods such as bananas, grapes, nuts, cream, cream quark or cheese for gratinating.
Nutrition tips for everyday life
- Eat together as a family and make mealtimes a pleasant and sociable experience.
- Avoid distractions such as watching TV or playing games during the meal. These can lead to your child forgetting the reason for sitting at the table and therefore forgetting to eat.
- Make sure the portion size is appropriate. Fully loaded plates can be a deterrent. It is therefore better to start with a smaller portion and top up if necessary. Spread your child's meals throughout the day and build in regular snacks.
- Offer nuts often. As well as providing plenty of calories, they also contain important vitamins and minerals. Seeds and kernels fulfil the same purpose for children with a nut allergy. They also make wonderful toppings for all kinds of dishes.
- Sweet and dairy drinks are also an easy way to increase your child's calorie intake. However, these should not be available to children unsupervised and unlimited.
- Be patient and give your child time to eat. Children can often be slow and it may take a while for them to finish their meal.
- Do not force your child to eat. This can create bad associations with food and lead to conspicuous eating behaviour later in life.
- Try to plan meals that your child likes. Ask your child about their favourite dishes and try to include them in the meal plan.
- Offer your child a choice of foods so that they can choose what they want to eat. This will give your child a sense of control and independence.
- Provide variety on the plate to stimulate appetite.
- Make eating interesting by offering foods in different colours and textures. Finger foods of all kinds are often a hit with little ones.
