What is it?
Faltering growth (which in the past was referred to as ‘Failure to Thrive’) is when a baby doesn’t grow at the expected rate. Babies grow very rapidly during their first two years. Breastfed babies tend to gain more weight during the first two months of life, compared to formula fed babies. After two months, the trend is reversed and formula fed babies grow at a faster rate. Most babies lose some weight after birth and start to gain weight at around two weeks of age.
It’s essential that babies get adequate nutrition to help them grow and develop. This is especially important for premature babies who need to catch up. A baby’s development, particularly their brain development, may be affected if their growth falters. That’s why it’s essential to recognise faltering growth as early as possible.
How is it diagnosed?
To identify whether a baby is experiencing faltering growth, check the baby’s weight using a growth chart/centile. Measure and plot the baby’s weight, length and head circumference to compare your findings with other babies of the same age and sex.
You can diagnose faltering growth if a baby’s weight slips down through two centiles on the relevant growth chart, or if it is consistently very low on the chart.
Take the baby’s weight and length measurement if necessary during routine checks at 2, 3, 4 and 12-15 months. To find out more click here to see our video explaining the growth charts.
What causes it?
There are many possible causes of faltering growth. Problems with feeding are the most common. Often a baby doesn’t take in enough calories to meet their needs for growth and development. This can happen if:
Some babies may not get enough calories or nutrients during the start of the weaning period, when solids are introduced. A high-fibre, low-fat diet recommended for adults is not suitable for babies because it is low in calories and important nutrients.
Another cause of faltering growth may be an underlying medical condition but this is very rare. Children with Coeliac disease or Cystic Fibrosis show signs of poor growth because they are unable to absorb some foods very effectively. Persistent gastro-oesophageal reflux may also cause vomiting and affect a baby’s growth. Click here to find out more on Gastro-Oesophageal Reflux section
How can it be treated?
If you find that a baby is suffering from faltering growth, advise parents to contact their GP who will advise them on necessary treatments, depending on whether they are breastfeeding or formula feeding. If they are breastfeeding, you can suggest ways they can help their baby take in more calories and nutrients. If they are formula feeding, a special formula such as SMA High Energy can also be prescribed. Recommend that parents monitor the baby’s progress to ensure that normal growth is regained as quickly as possible.
