**Imbalanced Diet**

According to Parents, children may eat frequently each day, but if their diet primarily consists of sweets, fast food, sugary drinks, or foods high in starch and sugar, they can still lack essential nutrients. For healthy development, children need adequate protein, vitamins, and minerals.

Protein from meat, fish, eggs, milk, and beans helps build muscles and body tissues. Meanwhile, calcium, vitamin D, phosphorus, and magnesium play a crucial role in bone development. Micronutrients like iron, zinc, vitamin A, and B are also vital for metabolism and growth.

**Parasitic Infections**

Parasitic infections can cause children to eat a lot yet still grow slowly. The reason is that these parasites live in the intestines, consuming a portion of the nutrients from the food the child eats. This means that even if a child eats enough, their body does not receive full nutrition for growth.

Parasites can also reduce the absorption of important substances such as protein, iron, and zinc. When this condition persists, children are prone to malnutrition, slow weight gain, and stunted growth. Parents should have their children dewormed periodically as advised by healthcare professionals.

In addition to proper nutrition, children need physical activity for physical development. Photo illustration: Hai Au

**Lack of Sleep**

Children who sleep little often experience difficulty concentrating, irregular eating habits, and are at risk of metabolic disorders, affecting growth. During deep sleep at night, the body secretes the largest amount of growth hormone (GH). This hormone plays an important role in the development of bones, muscles, and body tissues.

When children do not get enough sleep or frequently stay up late, the amount of growth hormone produced can decrease, slowing the development of height and muscle mass, according to Times of India.

**Physical Inactivity**

Regular physical activity stimulates the healthy development of bones, muscles, and joints. When children run, jump, play sports, or engage in outdoor activities, their bodies enhance bone formation and muscle mass development, thereby supporting growth in height and weight.

Conversely, if children spend too much time sitting, watching tivi, using phones, or computers, their bodies will expend less energy and reduce their appetite.

Le Nguyen (Compiled)