gained 12 lbs. this year

My daughter all of a sudden has a big round belly and has gained 12lbs. this year.  She has has skinny arms and legs etc.  She is very active in dance and swimming and is always in constant motion.  Is this a medical problem? or should I watch something in her diet? Thanks

[Renee Radenberg]

Both her weight and height are between the 90-95th percentile for her age which indicates she is normal for her age. For her age, she needs approximately 1800-2000 calories per day and recommended the following: Limit high sugar drinks/snacks and try replace with low fat milk/yogurt or fruit/popcorn. Cook only low fat meats (chicken, fish, loin of pork) or non-meat sources (soy products, nuts), low fat vegetarian combinations (rice & beans, pasta & beans, low fat cheese & pasta), fat free or low fat dairy products (skim milk, 1% milk, low fat cheese, low fat yogurts, low fat soy milk/yogurt), use plant oils, non trans-fat margarines, and eat a lot of fruits and vegetables. Eat daily high fiber breads and cereals (oatmeal) and limit ‘junk’ foods. It is good she is active. Limit time in front of the TV/DVD/computer or non-active-video games. There have been studies showing the longer the length of time a child sit in front of the TV, the greater the weight gain. Have her help you cook simple healthy foods so she learns how to eat right. Make everything fun so she will enjoy living healthy. Hoped this helped you.