Growth & Development

Poor Weight Gain & Poor Appetite

For the parent who says, "My child just doesn't eat."

Why is my child not gaining weight?

Common reasons include not getting enough calories, fussy eating, too much milk or juice filling the stomach, repeated infections, worms, anaemia, or less often, problems absorbing food. Dr. Zohaib checks your child's growth chart, diet and health to find the cause and gives a practical feeding plan.

What’s covered

  • Poor intake / fussy eating
  • Slow weight gain in babies (faltering growth)
  • Too much milk
  • Iron deficiency anaemia
  • Worm infestation
  • Food intolerance
  • Weaning problems
  • Mealtime routines

What to expect at your visit

  1. 1Tell us what’s worrying you and your child’s history
  2. 2A careful examination by Dr. Zohaib
  3. 3A clear explanation and a practical plan
  4. 4Follow-up when it’s needed

Where to see Dr. Zohaib

The M I Medical Center building on Street 18, G-16/4, Islamabad
Morning · Islamabad

M I Medical Center, Islamabad

Al Hameed Plaza, Street 18, Mini Market, G-16/4, IslamabadMon–Sat, 11:00 am – 4:00 pm · Fee Rs. 1,5000333-5848698
Outside Cosmesurge International Hospital, Rawalpindi
Evening · Rawalpindi

Cosmesurge International Hospital

Main Saidpur Road, near Kali Tanki, next to Rasheed Nursing Home, Satellite Town, RawalpindiMon–Sat, 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm · Fee Rs. 1,5000335-03000100333-5848698

Questions parents ask

Will an appetite syrup help?

Appetite stimulants are rarely the answer and can have side effects. Finding the reason for poor eating works better.

How much milk is too much for a toddler?

For most children over one year, around 400–500 ml a day is enough. More can reduce appetite for food.

Is my child underweight or just slim?

The growth chart answers this. A steady growth line is reassuring, even if the child is slim.

From the practice of Dr. H M Zohaib, Child Specialist & Neonatologist. This page is general guidance and does not replace a consultation.

Worried about your child? Talk to Dr. Zohaib.

For an emergency, go straight to the nearest hospital emergency or call 1122.