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Rapid Weight Gain in Children

As a child grows, it is normal that he will gain weight. But since every child is unique, some will gain weight faster than others. According to kidshealth.org, "Because some kids start developing as early as age 8 and some not until age 14, it can be normal for two kids who are the same gender, height and age to have very different weights." While getting taller and bigger is a normal process of development, if a child becomes overweight it can lead to some serious health problems and should be addressed.

  1. Average Weight Gain

    • According to an article in the May/June 1999 issue of Healthy Weight Journal, between the ages of 6 and 10, both boys and girls gain about five to seven pounds per year. When they reach adolescence, boys begin gaining more than girls. Boys gain about double the amount of lean body mass, while girls gain more fat mass. Weight gain occurs in spurts in adolescence, after the child has grown in height.

    Identification

    • The website kidshealth.org explains that experts have come up with a formula to determine whether a person has a healthy weight in relation to his height. The formula works well for both adults and kids. It is called BMI, which stands for Body Mass Index. BMI is measured in percentiles, so if your child is above the 85th percentile, she is overweight. Taking your child's BMI periodically may be a good way to find out if her rapid weight gain is normal. See the Resources section below for an online BMI calculator.

    Effects of Medications on Weight Gain

    • According to an October 27, 2009 article in U.S. News & World Report, children who are taking drugs for severe psychiatric problems are likely to gain weight rapidly and substantially. The reason behind the weight gain is not entirely clear, but it seems that children on these drugs have increased cravings for carbohydrates. The medications can also make them feel sedated, which will make them less active, thereby burning fewer calories. Some lose the weight quickly once they stop taking the drugs.

    Significance

    • In an article in U.S. News & World Report, Christoph Correll, a psychiatrist at the Zucker Hillside Hospital in Glen Oaks, New York, says that "weight gain during youth predisposes an individual to chronic health problems later in life." Not only may this lead to type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and obesity in adulthood, but a child who is rapidly gaining weight may develop these problems while still a child. It is therefore crucial that you pay attention if your child experiences rapid weight gain.

    Considerations

    • While it is important for a child to maintain a healthy weight, it is also important to keep in mind how sensitive children--especially teenagers--can be to being overweight. Instead of scolding your child for eating too much or being lazy, a better approach may be to start taking walks with the child, cooking healthier dinners and serving fewer sugary drinks and sweets. Make sure you are a good role model by eating healthy meals and being active yourself.

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