As a child, Minh Anh was a picky eater and underweight, leading her family to give her high-nutrient milk and many meals daily. Subsequently, she gained weight uncontrollably, reaching 80 kg and struggling to lose it. Upon arrival at Tam Anh General Hospital Hanoi, she was 1.67 m tall, weighed 80 kg, and had a BMI of 29.

Doctor Tran Quyen An from Tam Anh General Hospital Hanoi explained that despite Minh Anh weighing 80 kg, tests revealed obesity-related malnutrition. This condition means a child's weight exceeds healthy standards, yet their body is deficient in vital nutrients.

Patients with this type of malnutrition face risks of metabolic disorders, affecting growth, psychological well-being, and overall development. Children are at risk of early or delayed puberty, insulin resistance, and an increased risk of diabetes if they experience obesity-related malnutrition.

Doctor Quyen An attributed the condition to a long-term imbalanced diet, where the body consumed excessive calories from sugar and fat but lacked essential micronutrients such as: iron, calcium, zinc, and vitamin D. This situation leads to severe nutritional imbalance, causing patients to have excess fat while suffering from anemia and rickets.

A nutritionist advises Minh Anh on a suitable meal plan. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Patients with obesity-related malnutrition do not require medication for weight loss. The treatment goal is to reduce fat while ensuring proper height growth. Doctors advised Minh Anh to follow a diet that cut approximately 500 kcal daily from her usual intake, ensuring adequate energy without causing further imbalance or nutrient deficiency.

Her meal plan was divided into three main meals, prioritizing natural, diverse foods tailored to her habits and age-specific nutritional needs. She was advised to limit processed foods, high-sugar, and high-fat items, increase green vegetable intake, and control portion sizes.

Minh Anh exercised daily for at least 60 minutes, combined with two to three strength training sessions weekly, and aimed for 8-9 hours of sleep, limiting electronic device use. After two months of dietary and exercise adjustments, her weight decreased to approximately 74.5 kg.

Doctor An cautioned against extreme restrictive diets, skipping meals, or eliminating entire food groups when children are trying to lose weight. This age group requires sufficient energy and micronutrients for physical development. Parents should establish an age-appropriate diet, control energy intake, and encourage regular physical activity for children. It is important to monitor their weight and height according to standard growth charts. Children showing signs of rapid weight gain should seek early medical examination to ensure timely intervention.

Thuy Hanh

*Patient's name has been changed