My 10yo is quite skinny. My husband was also skinny as a kid so generally we haven’t worried about it much. But he just had his yearly checkup, and for the past two years he’s gained very little while still growing taller, and his BMI is dropping off the chart. The doc ordered a blood test and it came back fine, no celiac or thyroid issues (PHEW). So we’re back to trying to boost his intake.
He’s not a super picky kid but he can be reluctant to try things. He eats a lot of classic kid food with no problem: mac and cheese, pizza, burgers, chicken nuggets, etc. He also tends to eat a ton of fruits and veggies, which I don’t want to discourage or course! I might try PB&J again but he doesn’t love it like he used to.
The doc did say that she tends to prefer that kids eat their calories instead of drink them, but if a protein drink works for him, it’s an option as long as it’s not displacing solid food. I picked up one by Orgain the other day and he doesn’t seem overly thrilled with it. I’d be curious to know if other people have tried other brands and what their kids thought of them.
Anyone deal with this? What worked for you?
We intervened when our kid went under 3% on the body weight chart. Condensed milk and pediasure were our best outcomes. The condensed milk went into his Mac and cheese. Pediasure was a part of any snack. I made smoothies and would dump megatons of calories in it which were easily hidden by the yogurt and fruit.
And, of course, shit tons of ice cream.
His body weight skyrocketed and within 12 months he was over 20%.
Costco has condensed milk, pedicure, and ice cream for about as cheap as you can get it. It can get brutal at the grocery store for the Pediasure specifically but Costco has a decent price for it.
Ah awesome, I will try Costco. I might buy a small amount of the Pediasure to try it first and make sure he doesn’t balk. Condensed milk is a great idea! Does it change the flavor or texture at all? He’s picky about the texture of his beloved Kraft.
It does change the texture. It makes it heavier, if that makes sense. You can always add less or more until you find a spot they’ll eat. And they may like it better with it.
Good luck.