Why Isn’t My Child Growing? A Pediatric Endocrinologist Explains What You Need to Know

By Dr. Toni Kim, Pediatric Endocrinologist & Dr. Kelli Davis, Pediatric Endocrinologist at Life Pediatric Endocrinology
Serving families in Atlanta, Newport Beach, Beverly Hills, Nashville, Franklin, and virtually nationwide.

If your child is shorter than their peers, eating poorly, or falling off their growth curve, you’re not alone—and it’s not always just “a phase.”

At Life Pediatric Endocrinology, we specialize in uncovering the hidden reasons behind poor growth. Our approach is different. We go beyond standard labs and rushed visits to understand what’s really going on inside your child’s body. We take the time to connect the dots between nutrition, digestion, inflammation, lifestyle, and hormones—because growth is never just about genetics.

This post explains what we look for, how we help, and what you can do right now if you’re worried about your child’s height or weight gain.

Is Your Child Falling Behind in Growth?

If you’re searching things like:

“Why is my child not growing?”
“Does my child need growth hormone?”
“Is my child’s height normal for their age?”

…you’re not alone. We hear these concerns every day from loving parents who want answers, not just reassurance.

Here are some red flags we take seriously:

• Your child is dropping percentiles on the growth chart

• They eat very little or are extremely picky

• They complain of frequent tummy aches or constipation

• They seem tired all the time or low in energy

• They’ve had low iron, low vitamin D, or other lab abnormalities

• You’ve noticed food sensitivities or allergic reactions

• They aren’t keeping up with peers in physical development

Any one of these signs may point to an underlying issue that’s affecting your child’s ability to grow.

What Causes Poor Growth in Children (That Most Doctors Miss)

While genetics do play a role, we see many kids whose growth problems stem from issues that have nothing to do with their DNA. Here’s what we often find when we dig deeper:

Nutritional Deficiencies
Low iron or vitamin D is one of the most common—and overlooked—reasons a child doesn’t grow well. If your child isn’t getting enough protein, their body may not have the raw materials it needs to build height, muscle, or hormones.

Gut and Absorption Issues
Even if your child eats well, they may not be absorbing nutrients properly. Children with undiagnosed celiac disease or gluten sensitivity often have poor growth due to chronic gut inflammation that interferes with digestion and hormone signals.

Food Sensitivities and Allergies
Ongoing exposure to triggering foods can cause silent inflammation, suppress appetite, or lead to discomfort that makes eating unpleasant—all of which impact growth.

Hormonal Signals
We often check a hormone called IGF-1 (Insulin-Like Growth Factor 1), which gives us insight into whether the body is responding well to growth hormone. A low IGF-1 can indicate stress on the system, poor nutrition, or other issues that can be fixed—without jumping to hormone therapy right away.

What Happens During a Growth Consultation at LIFE

When you come to Life Pediatric Endocrinology, we don’t just glance at a growth chart and send you on your way. We do a full, customized evaluation that includes:

• Reviewing past labs, growth patterns, and medical history

• Ordering specialized bloodwork: ferritin, vitamin D, IGF-1, celiac screen, and more

• Asking detailed questions about your child’s eating habits, energy, and symptoms

• Looking at supplement use and possible food triggers

• Creating a step-by-step plan that’s realistic and tailored to your child’s biology

This is not a one-size-fits-all clinic. We listen. We test. And we treat with precision and care.

Do All Kids Who Aren’t Growing Need Growth Hormone?

We believe growth hormone can be a powerful tool—especially when paired with the right nutritional and lifestyle foundation.

At Life Pediatric Endocrinology, we don’t see growth hormone (HGH) as a last resort, nor do we hand it out to everyone. In fact, many of our patients come to us because we understand how to use it effectively—not just based on insurance checkboxes, but rooted in a deep understanding of your child’s biology, potential, and timing.

Yes, there are cases where lifestyle changes alone can make a big difference. But for many children, especially those with low IGF-1 or delayed growth potential, growth hormone combined with strategic nutrition, sleep support, and gut health work can transform both height and vitality.

This isn’t a one-dimensional protocol—it’s a precision plan built around your child’s unique growth story.

What You Can Do at Home Right Now

Here are four questions to consider:

1. Is your child getting protein at every meal? (Think eggs, yogurt, lean meats, legumes)

2. Do they often feel full quickly, bloated, or tired after eating?

3. Have they had bloodwork to check iron, vitamin D, and screen for celiac?

4. Are they getting enough calories and variety in their diet for their age and activity level?

If you’re unsure about any of these, it may be time for a more thorough evaluation.

Growth Is About More Than Height—It’s About Confidence, Strength, and Long-Term Health

At Life Pediatric Endocrinology, we believe healthy growth is a reflection of how well the body is functioning on the inside. That’s why we offer concierge-level care that goes far beyond surface-level solutions.

We help families find clarity, take action, and feel supported every step of the way.

Whether you’re local to Beverly Hills, Newport Beach, Nashville—or connecting with us virtually—you’ll receive the same high-touch, personalized care we’re known for.

Schedule a Signature Growth Consultation Today

Worried your child isn’t growing? You don’t have to wait and wonder. Let us help you find the answers and a plan you can trust.