Normal for toddlers to lose weight???

[chantal1015]

I'm getting so frustrated with my 22-month-old son's weight. When he was born he was in the 50% for weight. He even went up to the 75% soon after. Today at his checkup he was down to the 5% for weight. His doctor is concerned because he keeps dropping in weight and isn't getting any taller. We've met with a nutrionist and tried all her advice. Now we are getting referred to a specialist. I really don't know what to do because I do daycare so I'm home all day and my son is offered breakfast, lunch, dinner and 3 snacks during the day! Somedays he won't eat hardly anything and other days he does great. I don't know what else I can do besides offer the food. I can't force it down his throat. The "tricks" from the nutrionist haven't worked as far as getting him to eat more.
So now I'm getting worried that there is something medically wrong with him. Has anyone else had this problem and if so, was there something medically wrong? Does anyone know if Pediasure would help?

[hardworkinmama]

Yes, it is normal for toddlers to lose weight because they are more active but that much does seem a bit drastic. That being said, you are correct that you can't force it down his throat. My ped told me not to worry about him eating (or not) at every meal because kids will eat when they are hungry. Is his lack of eating keeping him from playing? Has it caused him to be more tired? If he is still doing the same amount of physical activity then I would just chalk it up to him being skinny and go about my day.
For a comparison, my son is 20 months, in the 71% for height and only the 28% for weight. My kid is going to be tall like his daddy and skinny like me. How are you and your husband? What about extended family? Genetics could also be playing a major role here.
Hope this helps! :)

[chantal1015]

His lack of eating is definitely not keeping him from playing or any physical activity. The boy never slows down! Haha! That is a good point about genetics. Both my husband and I were tall and skinny growing up. I guess we will take him to the specialist and hope it's nothing serious!
Thanks for your help!