At 15 months, my daughter's weight dropped from about the 10th percentile to below the growth chart, and my doctor prescribed a super-soluble supplement powder to be dissolved in her milk. (Her height remained constant, around the 25th percentile, and she's met or surpassed all of her developmental milestones.) She's used the powder for the past 6 months, and now her weight is up around the 4th percentile. I'm wondering whether prolonged use (or use in the first place) might affect her metabolism long-term, like giving rice cereal in a bottle. Your thoughts would be much appreciated. Thanks so much!
Comments
What a thoughtful question,
What a thoughtful question, Emily. And it sounds like you have a wonderful daughter, meeting or surpassing all of her developmental milestones.
For healthy kids who are growing well, I prefer beverages that don't have extra calories or sweeteners (such as water or water flavored with mint or lemon etc. OR beverages that have nutritious calories, such as breast milk or milk).
But some kids do need to get extra calories. Because of the body's set point, beverages may be one of the easiest ways to get extra calories in -- AND when extra calories are no longer needed, a clear way to get the extra calories out.
While the metabolic changes are a bit of a concern, this is far more of an issue in the first weeks, months and year. And far less of an issue than not getting enough calories for growth.
Bravo!