Is my son overweight? And other food worries.....

[nikki1978]

My DS is 2 years and 3 months old and weighs 33lbs. He is about 88cm tall. I don't think he over eats and I give my kids a healthy diet but he does drink quite a bit of semi skimmed milk as I took him off the formula he had at night when he turned two. I know I need to get him off the night time feeds . He gets through about 2 pints of milk in 2 hours. He eats very little breakfast due to the milk but has a good appetite for lunch and dinner. His sister who is 4 years and 7 months weighs 37lbs which is why I was concerned by his weight.

Am also having problems with my daughter ALWAYS being hungry. She is constantly asking for food and although I mainly offer her fruit between meals she seems to be starving all the time. Is this normal?

My mum gave me a huge complex about food when I was younger (calling me fat and withholding food) so I am very conscious of what I am doing to my kids but am worried about doing the same as her or doing the opposite and letting my kids get to big.

Any ideas?

Sorry he gets through 2 pints of milk in 24 hours!!

If you are worried, I think you should ask your GP or health visitor for advice before doing anything.

One question: does he drink the milk constantly during the day? Too much milk can hinder the absoption of iron. But like I said, ask your health visitor first.

What does it say on the growth charts? Tbh, 2pints of milk is an awful lot. My dd is 18months and has a 5oz bottle of whole milk before bed and then doesn't have anything until the morning when she has some water, and then has half a beaker of milk with her bowl of cereal.

If they are always hungry, you would be best to let them have a limitless (well almost) supply of healthy snacks, fruit/rice cakes/breadsticks etc. You don't mention what you feed your dc but many children will keep on saying they are hungry because they are either bored or they know if they carry on, mum will let them have a biscuit or a bag of crisps.

I think your best bet would be to see the health visitor or nurse and get them to measure and weigh your children and offer advice.