Unexplained weight gain and digestive problems in a child may occur for many reasons. Issues can range from environmental to medical, depending on what the child is consuming and his genetics. It is important to consult your pediatrician to ensure that the child is healthy and there are no serious medical conditions at hand.
Look for Simple Reasons
Depending on your lifestyle, identifying what is making your child gain weight can be difficult. Sometimes, it can be as simple as what the child is consuming when he is at school, friends' homes, or elsewhere. Foods that are unhealthy or different from the child's usual diet can cause unexplained digestive problems. According to the National Institutes of Health, "The most common causes are genetic factors, lack of physical activity, unhealthy eating patterns, or a combination of these factors." Exposing children to healthy habits consistently can lead them to make healthier choices on their own.
Food Allergies
Food allergies are commonly overlooked in children and can cause a range of symptoms from digestive upset to difficulty concentrating, fatigue and more. If a child is not getting enough exercise due to fatigue or not feeling well, she may be consuming more calories than her body is burning. Although the diet has not changed, the lack of activity can cause weight gain. Food allergies can also cause inflammation and bloating, which may be mistaken for a small amount of weight gain in a child. If you suspect that your child has a food allergy, consult your physician to talk about possible diet changes. An elimination diet, which removes suspected food allergens and then reintroduces them one at a time, can often be used to determine what foods your child is reacting to.
Possible Medical Issues
Certain medical conditions can cause weight gain in a child. With celiac disease, a genetic disorder, the body reacts to foods containing gluten. Celiac disease damages the villi in the stomach. Villi are small protrusions that allow the small intestine to absorb nutrients from food. Damage to the villi can cause poor digestion and vitamin deficiencies. Everybody reacts differently to this disorder, making it difficult to diagnose. Common symptoms include fatigue, skin rashes, digestive issues and sudden weight loss or weight gain. Other conditions such as Crohn's disease, colitis, or certain vitamin deficiencies can also result in weight gain and digestive problems.
Consult Your Physician
According to MayoClinic.com, childhood obesity can, "start children on the path to health problems that were once confined to adults, such as diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol." If you believe your child has a medical issue, be sure to consult your pediatrician to rule out conditions such as celiac disease and food allergies. If symptoms of gastrointestinal upset persist, consider seeing a specialist such as a gastroenterologist, a doctor who specializes in the digestive tract. Being supportive and staying positive about nutritious eating and everyday activity can also help your child lose weight and become healthier.
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