Dear doctor;

I have a two-year-old son who eats like a grown up. He can eat a plate full of food and even asks for more. However, his body looks normal and he only weighs 13.5 kilogrammes. I feel this is not normal especially for a child his age. What could be the problem?

Teopista.

Dear Teopista,

You need to  tell how long the child has been supposedly eating in excess, whether he eats once or two to three times per day and is he able to digest the food consumed. Children sometimes have increased appetite due to the growth spurt in body. Excess physical activity also leads to increased appetite as body demands more nutrients. 

Sometimes a child may eat more merely to seek attention or due to depression. But in such cases, the body weight should increase proportionately. 

Excess appetite can be due to uncontrolled diabetes and other hormonal disorders like hyperthyroidism or hyperadrenalism. Worm infestation particularly tape worm infestation can also cause increased appetite. All these are treatable conditions. Get tests done to exclude diabetes, hyperthyroidism and worm infestation. If he is able to digest the food consumed, fine. If he has dyspepsia like nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, among others, try to divert his attention to more pleasurable activities.