Can a Baby Be Too Fat?

It's easy for parents to become concerned about a child's fat intake, especially considering the roly-poly bodies of many infants and toddlers. So how do you distinguish between healthy growth and excess weight? Most children this age are so active they don't run the risk of developing weight problems. In addition, a higher-fat diet is necessary for healthy brain development until your child turns 2 years old.

If your child's weight begins to increase faster than her height, though, you should discuss it with your pediatrician. The trick will be not to help her lose weight, but to slow weight gain. Healthy snacks, a decrease in dietary fat and sugar, and exercise can all help.

All content here, including advice from doctors and other health professionals, should be considered as opinion only. Always seek the direct advice of your own doctor in connection with any questions or issues you may have regarding your own health or the health of others.