Concerns About Growth and Nutrition in Pediatric Sleep Issues

Nutrition and Growth (2/2)

In the evening, it takes him about two hours to fall asleep, often around 11 or 12 o'clock.
I have heard that growth hormone is secreted around 10 PM, which worries me about his growth and nutrition.
Given his situation, should I provide him with additional nutritional supplements? (Such as Xiao Shan Cun? Calcium powder? Some recommend Meizhao's L-type calcium lactate: it has high solubility, can be cooked, contains CPPIII, adjusts the calcium-to-phosphorus ratio in food, and calms the nerves.) Or could you please advise me on what to do, doctor? [End]

Xiao You, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2008/11/04

Dr. Xiao Kaiwen reply Pediatrics

At two and a half years old, a height of nearly 90 cm is acceptable (25-50 percentile), but a weight of 10 kg is considered too low (<3 percentile).
If other developmental milestones (walking, running, climbing stairs, speaking, and social behavior) are normal, this is mostly attributed to genetic factors from the parents (who may be thinner) or insufficient energy intake.
The former is difficult to change, while the latter can be addressed by supplementing with high-calorie nutritional products (such as Abbott Pediasure, Mead Johnson Enfagrow, or similar).
There are many options available on the market, but they should be approved by the health department for infant consumption.
If milk intake is low, additional complementary foods should be provided (with variety to enhance appetite, including more fried foods to increase energy intake).
It is also advisable to consult a pediatric growth and development specialist or a nutritionist at a hospital.
Additionally, establishing a good nighttime sleep routine is important (try to limit daytime naps and engage in play, create a conducive sleep environment at night, avoid playtime, and consider playing soft music).

Reply Date: 2008/11/04

More Info

Concerns about children's growth and nutrition, especially in the context of sleep issues, are quite common among parents. Your situation, where your son takes a long time to fall asleep, raises valid concerns about his overall health and development. Sleep is crucial for children, not only for their immediate well-being but also for their growth and cognitive development.

Firstly, it’s important to understand that growth hormone is primarily secreted during deep sleep, particularly in the early stages of the night. If your son is going to bed late and taking a long time to fall asleep, he may not be getting enough quality sleep, which could potentially impact his growth. The timing of sleep is indeed significant; ideally, children should be asleep by 8-9 PM to maximize the benefits of growth hormone secretion.

Regarding nutritional supplements, while they can be beneficial, they should not be seen as a substitute for a balanced diet. If your son is otherwise healthy, with normal height and weight for his age, it may be more beneficial to focus on improving his sleep habits and environment rather than immediately resorting to supplements. However, if you feel that his diet lacks certain nutrients, consulting with a pediatrician or a pediatric nutritionist can provide tailored advice.

Here are some strategies to consider:
1. Sleep Hygiene: Establish a consistent bedtime routine that helps signal to your son that it’s time to wind down. This could include activities like reading a book, taking a warm bath, or listening to calming music. Reducing screen time at least an hour before bed is also crucial, as blue light from screens can interfere with melatonin production, making it harder to fall asleep.

2. Dietary Considerations: Ensure that your son is consuming a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and proteins. Foods high in magnesium (like nuts and leafy greens) and calcium (like dairy products) can promote better sleep. If you are considering supplements like calcium or specific nutritional products, it’s best to discuss this with a healthcare provider to ensure they are appropriate for his age and health status.

3. Physical Activity: Encourage regular physical activity during the day. Exercise can help children fall asleep faster and enjoy deeper sleep. However, try to avoid vigorous activity close to bedtime.

4. Addressing Anxiety: If your son exhibits signs of anxiety or stress, which can also contribute to sleep difficulties, consider incorporating relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises or gentle yoga before bed.

5. Consulting Professionals: If sleep issues persist, it may be beneficial to consult a pediatric sleep specialist or a child psychologist. They can help identify any underlying issues, such as anxiety or behavioral problems, that may be contributing to his sleep difficulties.

In summary, while nutritional supplements can play a role in supporting your child's health, they should be part of a broader strategy that includes improving sleep hygiene, ensuring a balanced diet, and addressing any potential psychological factors. Always consult with healthcare professionals before starting any new supplement regimen to ensure it aligns with your child's specific needs.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Sleep Challenges in Infants: Insights for Concerned Parents

Dear Dr. Wang, Hello. My baby has just turned seven months old. Normally, infants are expected to have long sleep durations, but since birth, my baby has always struggled to sleep for extended periods. During the day, he often wakes up crying after just half an hour of sleep, an...

Dr. Wang Jiayi reply Pediatrics
I apologize for the delay in responding to your question due to personal matters. To assess a child's physical and mental growth and health, it is essential to first check if their height, weight, and head circumference are within normal ranges. A basic physical examination,...

Struggling with Sleep: Solutions for Your Child's Sleep Issues

Dr. Yu: Hello! My son is about to turn 6 years old, and he has a lot of difficulty falling asleep. Whether it's in the morning or at night, he tosses and turns for a long time before he can finally sleep. I've tried many methods, but none have been effective. It's ...

Dr. Yu Meiling reply Pediatrics
There are many causes of sleep disorders: 1. Organic causes, such as pain, medications, or stimulants (like cola, coffee, tea), and illnesses. 2. Parasomnias, such as sleepwalking, night terrors, and enuresis. 3. Sleep-wake cycle disorders, such as daytime sleeping, nighttime wak...

How Sleep Affects Height Growth in Adolescents: A Doctor's Insight

Hello doctor, I am currently a ninth-grade student. I often stay up late scrolling on my phone, getting only 4 to 5 hours of sleep each night for over a year. During this time, I have only grown a little over one centimeter. Could this be related to my sleep? Or is it possible th...

Dr. Li Wenhong reply Orthopedics
Hello: Adequate sleep is related to growth and development. Please avoid excessive use of mobile phones, and it is best to have more than 6 hours of sleep. If you are unsure whether the growth plates are about to close, please visit the pediatric metabolism and endocrinology depa...

Understanding Weight Issues in Infants: Common Concerns and Clarifications

Dear Doctor, Thank you for the detailed information in the attached file. After reading it, I have a more concrete understanding of the causes of underweight in young children. However, I have a few questions that I hope you can clarify. Thank you. 1. Generally, the growth asse...

Dr. Pei Rensheng reply Pediatrics
Hello, You are a very dedicated mother. 1. The growth curve data provided by the Department of Health in June 1999 is now over seven years old and may not accurately reflect your baby's current situation. Theoretically, with advancements over time, babies tend to be tall...