Why is my son so thin?

[jacquimac]

My 8 yr old son is extremely thin, but he eats really well. He eats good portions and is not a picky eater either. His BMI is 12.5, which puts him below the first centile on the chart. He has always been thin, but only recently have I noticed (during swimming lessons)quite how thin compared to other boys. Is there something I should be doing, or could this be caused by a medical condition, which I should get checked by a doctor? Thanks. Jacquimac.

[rajveer2008]

My son is 2 years old.His weight is 11.4 KG is the weight perfect. He is very thin , suggest some food tips for him .Hoped this answered your question.

[Renee Radenberg]

I am so sorry I made a mistake. I replotted his measurements and you are correct his height is at 75th percentile and his weight is between the 10-25th percentile which indicates his is normal for his age. He is not underweight. If you are still concerned, then suggest the above recommendations.

[jacquimac]

There must be some mistake. His height is nearly at the 75th centile for his age???

[Renee Radenberg]

His weight is below the 3rd percentile and his height is just below the 5th percentile for his age. Genetics may play a part in his height. Are there males in the family with small stature? Glad to hear he is a good eater. Suggest milkshakes or yogurt smoothies with fruit - milk or yogurt, banana or strawberries (or any type fruit), ice cream blended together 2-3 times a day for additional calories to increase his weight. Some tips for additional calories: If he likes pasta, then add cheese sauces to the pasta instead of plain tomato sauce or plain pasta. Add cheese to vegetables, if he eats them. Add dry milk to oatmeal, mashed potatoes, gravies, creamed vegetables, and creamed soups (add additional protein sources to soups such as meat). Add beans to rice instead plain rice for additional protein. Hoped this answered your question.