As your child continues to grow their size and shape will alter. Ideally your child should maintain a healthy weight for their height as they get older. Staying a healthy weight can be challenging whether you’re a child, young person or adult.
In the United Kingdom (UK) it has been identified that children are increasingly becoming heavier. Being overweight can have significant implications for a child, young person or adult. Being overweight as a child/young person increases the chances of being overweight into adulthood. Children can experience bullying and low self-esteem related to being overweight, and are more at risk of developing diabetes and heart disease.
Being underweight might mean your child is not getting enough calories from what they eat. You should discuss this with a health professional.
If you are concerned that your child is deliberately missing meals, limiting their food intake or binge eating, you should discuss this with a healthcare professional.
If your child is a fussy eater or only eats a few foods and you are worried about this, you can speak to us for more advice.