Q: My kid's doctor thinks that she needs to see a dietician because she is short she is still on the growth chart and my husband and I are both short people and she eats well. Does she really need a dietician? Posted 2/8/2010 by rter

A: Posted 2/8/2010 by Stacy

Hmmm.. that's interesting... and somewhat odd.  My children are both "short" as well, but it does run in the family and what my pediatrician explained to me is that as long as there is a consistant growth on the chart each year then there is nothing to be concerned about.  Basically, there is no cause for alarm unless there is a signicant drop on the growth curve.  Furthermore, I'm confused as to what diet would have to do with height anyway.  It seems more productive to recommend a dietician if there were concerns with weight gain.  If the child is growing, but not gaining weight or is grossly underweight and doesn;t eat well then it is important to seek guidasnce from a dietician or nutritionist.  If you are concerned about your child's size, I would suggest you seek a second opinion from another doctor as recommending a dietician because a child is a little short when there is a genetic indication for such seems to be a waste of time.

Good Luck To You!