Signs of unhealthy weight gain in children

Gaining weight too quickly

If after just a few weeks parents notice their child’s clothes becoming tighter, this could be a sign of unhealthy weight gain. This condition increases the risk of chronic health problems in adulthood. Parents should monitor weight, adjust diet and encourage children to exercise to control it.

Short of breath, tired

Children are often hyperactive. When children are reluctant to exercise, have difficulty keeping up with friends, easily pant or sweat even during light activities, being overweight may have affected the heart and lungs. If prolonged, children are at risk of early hypertension and lack of confidence when participating in physical activities.

Snoring loudly or having restless sleep

Snoring, short pauses in breathing during sleep or poor sleep can be signs of sleep apnea due to airway obstruction, common in overweight children. Poor quality sleep disrupts hormones that regulate hunger and blood sugar, increasing appetite and the risk of metabolic diseases such as type 2 diabetes.

Frequent joint pain

Knee, hip or back pain in children is a sign to pay attention to. Excess weight puts prolonged pressure on growing joints, which can change posture and limit movement. In the long term, being overweight increases the risk of early osteoarthritis and chronic musculoskeletal pain in adulthood.

Skin changes

Dark, smooth skin patches on the neck or under the arms, accompanied by thirst, frequent urination, high blood pressure or cholesterol are warning signs of metabolic disorders. These manifestations are often related to insulin resistance and early cardiovascular stress, which can progress to type 2 diabetes, fatty liver or heart disease if not intervened.

Children who gain unhealthy weight are easily teased or have low self-esteem about their appearance. Over time, this can lead to anxiety, depression and emotional eating habits, causing weight to continue to increase. If someone in the family has obesity, diabetes or premature cardiovascular disease, children with rapid weight gain should be monitored. Early intervention for children can significantly reduce the risk of similar diseases in the future.

In order for children to gain weight healthily, parents should build an energy-rich diet, divide into 4-5 small meals a day, and avoid force-feeding. Prioritize nutritious foods like whole milk, eggs, red meat, avocados, nuts, and good fats. Combine increased exercise, create a happy atmosphere when eating and periodically deworm to improve absorption.