Weight concerns - Down Syndrome Message Board

Tifferbelle · 05-27-2002, 12:27 PM

I have noticed posts about weight problems. My daughter, age 8, is really tiny right now but I know that it's not uncommon for them to develop weight problems later on. We have her thyroid checked regularly as that is often a problem. My question is do you think that the weight problems usually are caused by underactive thyroid or is diet and excercise more likely the problem? I'm just wondering if there is anything I should be doing now to prevent her from becoming overweight later on. Of course I'll love her just as much if she becomes tubby but if I can help her prevent it so much the better.

mom8times · 06-09-2002, 01:29 AM

Hi,Tifferbelle
I'm new here, I have a 13-year old Down's daughter, Amy. She's gained a lot of weight in the past year and a half and we found out, when the Dr's office was finally able to get a blood sample (Dr, 2 nurses aides and me had to hold her down and my 9-year old Missy had to change the tubes when they filled! Amy hates needles!) that her thyroid was extremely slow.
But I also know that Amy doesn't like to exercise at all, and can sit for hours. And she loves to eat. So with Amy it's a combination of all three.