Growth is a process that begins with fertilization and ends in adolescence. The size depends on genetic factors (sex, race, size); as well as the maturation rate of the parents; that is, children who grow earlier because their pubertal development begins earlier and others later. It also influences balanced nutrition, adequate rest and performing physical activity.
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There are severe chronic diseases that can affect growth such as being born with low or premature birth weight, being obese; as well as hormonal deficit. Psychological stress, such as lack of affection or abandonment, can also play a role in reaching genetic potential. In situations of a decreased growth the child should be referred to a pediatric endocrinologist to initiate follow-up and pertinent studies.
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Therefore, the Dr. María Elena Calderón, specialist in endocrinology, recommends taking into account the following to strengthen the healthy growth of your child:
♦BALANCE DIET. Protein consumption (fish, chicken, red meat between 1 and 2 times a week, eggs and milk), as well as offering vegetables, fruits, cereals and legumes on a daily basis. Minimize sweets, trans fats, ultra-processed foods, soft drinks, among others.
♦TO SLEEP. Rest is essential for their development. This sleep time per day guide is recommended.
Newborns to 3 months: 14 to 17 hours
Between 4 and 12 months: 12 to 16 hours (including naps).
In the first year: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. (including naps).
Between 3 and 5 years old: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. (including naps).
Between 6 and 12 years: 9 to 12 hours
Between 1:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m.: 8 a.m. to 10 a.m.
♦PHYSICAL ACTIVITY. Babies under one year: Must be active every day. If they are not yet crawling, help them by moving their head, body and limbs. Include at least 30 minutes of tummy time in the day when you are awake. For children from 1 to 2 years old, activity every day for at least 3 hours (move, roll, jump and run). In the case of preschoolers from 3 to 4 years old; at least 3 hours a day of activities, including play and the outdoors. 1 hour of moderate to vigorous intensity activity is recommended. And, finally, in children from 5 to 18 years of age, performing aerobic exercise for 1 hour daily and muscle and bone strengthening exercise 3 or more times a week has clear short- and long-term physiological and psychosocial benefits.
DATITO
If you want to know how your child is growing, you can visit www.creciendobien.com, which provides tools such as growth charts, a weight and height-for-age calculator.
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