Understanding Your Son's Weight: Potential Medical & Lifestyle Factors

Question
My 17 yr. old son is about5'10'' and weighs about 120lbs.  He is a healthy eater.  I don't suspect an eating disorder.  What other medical reasons would there be for his inability to gain weight.  He is not into sports and his low weight also bothers him.  what do you think?

Answer
Dear Suzanne, You should do a calorie count for a week. Have him write down everything he eats and drinks and count calories. Most boys his age should be eating upwards of 3000 calories per day. If his mother and father are naturally thin, then it's probably his genetics. His pediatrician should have had his height and weight charted since birth, if he remains on the same curve, then it's ok. If he has deviated from that curve in the last year or two, then it could be a problem, one in which his doctor should be involved with. Hope that helps, Laura Kraemer,Slimkids.com