Your child's body mass index (BMI) is at 26,3 kg/m², indicating grade one obesity. Children with obesity often experience early growth spurts due to accelerated bone age development.

During this stage, close monitoring of the child's annual height growth rate is crucial, while managing weight and prioritizing weight maintenance. If weight gain occurs, it should ideally be limited to 100-150 g per month (equivalent to 1,5-2 kg per year). Parents should observe for signs of early puberty in children, such as: breast development, menstruation, or unusually rapid height growth. Children should undergo pediatric endocrine examinations every three to six months. With adequate nutrition, regular physical activity, sufficient sleep, and comprehensive endocrine monitoring, children have a good chance of reaching their near-potential adult height.

Childhood obesity is characterized by the accumulation of excessive fat in a child's body, leading to weight exceeding standards for their height and age. This can result in numerous long-term consequences, such as: hormonal changes and musculoskeletal diseases. Causes may include a high-energy diet, lack of physical activity, genetic factors, or endocrine disorders. This condition carries several risks, such as: early puberty, metabolic disorders, cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and can impact adult height development.

To ensure optimal height development while managing childhood obesity, parents must combine dietary adjustments, regular physical activity, and healthy daily habits. Meals should balance protein, carbohydrates, healthy fats, green vegetables, and fresh fruits. Limit fast food, fried foods, and sugary soft drinks. Encourage children to engage in at least 60 minutes of daily physical activity through gentle sports, such as: swimming, basketball, badminton, jump rope, or brisk walking. Adequate and timely sleep (8-10 hours per night) is also crucial, as growth hormone is primarily secreted during the night.

Parents should arrange regular nutritional and endocrine check-ups for their children. This allows doctors to monitor BMI, height, and growth rate, enabling appropriate interventions.

Dr. Tran Tra Phuong

Department of Nutrition

Tam Anh General Hospital Hanoi