Dieting for weight loss

Children in their growth phase need adequate energy and nutrients for bone and muscle development, as stated by Cleveland Clinic. Restricting carbohydrates, fats, or proteins too much can deprive the body of essential materials for bone formation and growth hormone production. A long-term low-energy diet can result in slow weight gain, less muscle, and hinder height development.

Focusing only on calcium-rich foods

Calcium is a key mineral for bone development, but not the sole factor for height. Protein builds bones, muscles, and tissues. Vitamin D boosts calcium absorption, while vitamin K helps transport it into bones. Zinc, magnesium, and phosphorus also aid bone formation and mineralization. Thus, for children to grow tall, parents must provide a varied, balanced diet, along with enough sleep and regular exercise.

Not monitoring growth rate

Parents may miss slow growth without regular height monitoring. Many children grow, but at a rate below age expectations, an early sign of malnutrition, growth hormone deficiency, early puberty, or certain medical conditions. Detecting this late, after a child's rapid growth phase or when growth plates are almost closed, makes improving height harder. Today's Parent advises parents to measure their child's height every 3-6 months and compare it to growth charts to track development.

Parents should monitor their child's height regularly. Illustration: Tam Anh General Hospital.

Carrying heavy bags, poor posture

Carrying heavy bags on one shoulder or sitting hunched with a bowed head for long periods can cause back pain, neck strain, spinal curvature, or hunchback. These problems lead to poor posture, making children appear shorter and impacting their movement. Parents should choose a bag weighing no more than 10% of the child's body weight, instruct them to use both straps, and teach proper sitting posture to protect the spine.

Eating too much salt

Children consuming too much salt for long periods can experience increased sodium and calcium excretion by the kidneys. If their diet lacks enough calcium or vitamin D to compensate, bone health may decline. High-salt foods such as: fast food, sausages, instant noodles, and snacks often lack essential protein, vitamins, and minerals for development.

Le Nguyen (Compiled)