‘Tatangkad Din Yan’ And Other Child Growth Myths Explained

Are you really a Filipino mom if you haven’t received or heard a myth about childcare and rearing? Filipinos have many myths and beliefs regarding raising their children and new parents often cannot escape them. These myths, rooted in cultural norms and passed down through generations, can sometimes be harmless. However, they can also significantly impact how parents approach certain concerns, such as their child’s growth and development.

At a recent event with Pediasure, Dr. Jun Dimaano, Abbott’s Medical Director for Asia Pacific, and celebrity moms Nina Corpuz and Karel Marquez discussed prevalent myths about child growth and stunting. They provided insights and scientifically-backed information to help parents foster healthy growth in their children. Here are a few of those myths:

Common myths about child growth

Myth 1: Kapag maliit ang magulang, automatic na maliit ang anak

A widespread belief is that if parents are short, their children will inevitably be short too. This myth stems from the idea that genetics solely determines height. Dr. Jun addressed this misconception:

“Maraming factors na pwedeng maka-affect sa height ng bata. Genes, o yung namamana natin sa magulang natin is just one factor. However, in the first five years of life, there are other factors too, such as yung environment, accessibility ng pagkain sa bahay, kung masustansya ba ang food, nakakakuha ba ng adequate sleep ang bata, and another is if the child is getting enough physical activity or exercise. And of course, a loving and kind environment for the child, which is conducive for growth.”

Dr. Jun added that although genetics contribute around 60 to 80% to a child’s height potential, environmental factors account for the remaining 20 to 40%. Therefore, even if parents are not tall, a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and regular physical activity can help maximize a child’s growth potential.

Myth 2: Catch-up growth can be achieved in three weeks

Some parents believe that stunting or growth issues can be rapidly resolved, expecting immediate improvements in their child’s height with minimal interventions. Dr. Jun clarified:

“There are two major growth spurts in a person’s life. The first one is in the first two years of life and the second one is at the pubertal stage, between 10 and 14 years old. So sa mga time na yun, talagang naturally, you expect yourself to grow fast.

“The misconception of three weeks, hindi siguro catch-up growth, catch-up weight, kasi weight madali mag-fluctuate. That’s why we don’t rely on weight as the true measure of growth. Kasi yuung height, makikita mo lang changes over a long period of time. It takes time and steady growth. At kailangan ng enough and consistent intervention. So you really have to look at the child’s growth trend or growth trajectory over at least 3 to 6 months or even a year to see kung talagang nag-catch-up siya.”

This means that catch-up growth, especially in terms of height, is a gradual process requiring careful monitoring over several months to a year. Quick fixes are unrealistic and potentially harmful if they lead to improper nutrition or other health issues.

Myth 3: Basta malakas kumain, siguradong tatangkad

Most parents assume that if their child has a good appetite and eats well, then he will grow tall and healthy. However, this is an oversimplification. Dr. Jun explained:

“Good appetite sa bata is actually a good sign of health. However, need din consider behavioral issues, like if picky eater or may method of eating yung bata. Like if puro chicken nuggets or fries lang ang kinakain.

“Ang kailangan is diverse ang kinakain ng bata. Yung may five out of seven food groups to assure that the child gets enough nutrients, both in terms of nutrient type and quantity of nutrient to support the growth.”

So what are these food groups? Dr. Jun said they include animal-based food (meat and fish), eggs, milk and dairy products, legumes and nuts, tubers and roots, grains, vitamin A-rich fruits and vegetables, and other fruits and vegetables.

Myth 4: Lalaki at tatangkad din sila

Another common belief is that children will naturally outgrow their stunted growth phase without any intervention. Karel shared her experience:

“Many people told me not to worry if my children were smaller than their peers, saying they would catch up eventually. However, I learned that without proper nutrition and medical guidance, this might not happen. It’s important to address growth issues early to ensure children reach their full growth potential.”

Ignoring signs of stunted growth can lead to missed opportunities for early intervention. Hence, parents should be proactive in seeking medical advice if they notice or are worried that their child is significantly shorter or not growing as expected.

Addressing and correcting growth issues

Dr. Jun emphasized the fact that stunting prevalence is still high in the country, with one out of four children below the age of five being stunted. And that two in three moms are unaware of the long-term effects of stunting on childhood growth. Here’s how parents can address this problem:

Early identification

The first step in addressing growth issues is raising awareness so that parents can recognize early signs if their kids are at risk. Dr. Jun underscored the importance of monitoring growth patterns:

“Parents should regularly measure their child’s growth and compare it with standard growth charts. If there are significant deviations or if the child is consistently smaller than their peers, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional to identify and underlying issues.”

Abbott’s Growth Watch initiative aims to help moms screen for and recognize stunting in their children so that they can take the necessary steps to address it. The initiative has tools and resources that can help parents monitor their child’s growth, including a Growth Calculator, a height chart, and even free growth assessment and nutrition counseling.

Nutritional interventions

The talk underscored that a balanced diet plays a vital role in ensuring proper growth, emphasizing the need to include the following key food groups in meals:

• Animal-based food: Meats and fish provide essential proteins and micronutrients.
• Eggs: A rich source of protein and essential vitamins.
• Legumes and nuts: Provide protein, fiber, and essential fatty acids.
• Tubers and roots: Such as potatoes and sweet potatoes for energy.
• Grains: Including rice and whole grains, for carbohydrates.
• Vitamin A-rich fruits and vegetables: Like carrots and squash, crucial for immune function and growth.

Physical activity and sleep

At the same time, regular physical activity and adequate sleep are essentials of healthy growth. Dr. Jun explained:

“Physical activity helps in building muscle strength and bone density, while sleep is crucial for growth hormone production. Ensuring that children get enough of both can significantly enhance their growth.”

Medical consultation and regular monitoring

Parents should also not hesitate to seek medical advice if they have concerns about their child’s growth. Regular check-ups and growth monitoring can help detect any issues early and allow for timely interventions.

Myths and misconceptions about child growth can lead to inadequate care and missed opportunities for proper intervention. By debunking these myths and understanding the importance of balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, adequate sleep, and early medical consultation, parents can better support their children's growth and development. As Dr. Jun summarized:

“Awareness and education are the first steps toward proper and timely intervention. By dispelling these myths and focusing on scientifically proven methods, we can maximize the growth potential of every child.”

Read here to learn why good growth is not just about being tall.