 |
 |
|
|
|
|
DESCRIPTION
Growth problems usually occur when the pituitary gland fails to function as it should. The pituitary gland distributes hormones, including the growth hormone somatotropin, to various parts of the body. Somatotropin stimulates the growth of muscle and bone in growing children.
FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
The signs and symptoms depends upon the type of growth disorder. A child with a growth problem needs to be evaluated by a health care provider to determine the underlying health issues involved.
CAUSES
Either overproduction or underproduction of this hormone can cause growth abnormalities. The secretion of too little growth hormone by the pituitary causes dwarfism while too much causes the body to grow in an exaggerated fashion, resulting in abnormally large hands, feet, and jaw. Some cases of malfunction of the pituitary are caused by the growth of a tumor on the gland.
In some cases, growth problems are caused by the failure of the thyroid gland to function properly. The thymus gland may also be involved. If the thymus gland of an infant is damaged, development is retarded and the child has a greater than normal susceptibility to infection. Nutrition can also play a significant role in the growth and development of a child.
TREATMENT
CONSIDERATIONS
When evaluating a child's growth, it is the overall growth pattern, rather than size, that is important. If a child seems to "fall off" a previously steady growth curve, he or she should be evaluated for possible nutritional deficiencies and other underlying health problems.
If growth is slowed because of insufficient growth hormone production, a health care provider may prescribe growth hormone therapy.
If growth problems are the result of a tumor of the pituitary gland, surgical removal or treatment of the tumor with drugs or by other means, may be recommended.
Kwashiorkor is a protein/calorie deficiency disorder that causes children to grow slowly and have very little resistance to disease. It is most common among very poor people in developing countries. However, it can occur anywhere if a child's protein and/or calorie requirements are not met over a period of time. If detected early, it can be treated. Malabsorption syndromes, such as that associated with celiac disease, can cause similar problems even though nutritional intake appears to be adequate.
High levels of lead, a toxic metal, may cause growth problems. A hair analysis can be done to rule out this metal toxicity. See Lead Poisoning and Hair Analysis for more information.
HERBAL & HOLISTIC RECOMMENDATIONS
Unless otherwise specified, the dosages recommended here are for adults. For a child between the ages of 12 and 17, reduce the dose to 3/4 the recommended amount. For a child between 6 and 12, use 1/2 the recommended dose, and for a child under the age of 6, use 1/4 the recommended amount.
HERBS
- Alfalfa is a valuable source of vitamins, minerals and other nutrients that promote the proper functioning of the pituitary gland. It can be taken in tablet or capsule form, as well as be eaten in a natural form such as alfalfa sprouts.
NUTRITIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS
- Eat a well-balanced diet high in healthful sources of protein. Protein is necessary for growth.
- Include in the diet foods high in the amino acid arginine. Arginine is used in the body is used by the body to synthesize another amino acid, ornithine, which promotes the release of growth hormone. Good food sources of arginine include carob, coconut, dairy products, gelatin, oats, peanuts, soybeans, walnuts, wheat, and wheat germ.
Nutrients Supplement Suggested Dosage Comments Very Important Or
AlfalfaAs directed on label. A good source of vitamins, minerals and other nutrients that help promote the proper functioning of the pituitary gland. It can be taken in capsule form, as well as eaten in a natural form such as alfalfa sprouts. Cod liver oil As directed on label. Contains vitamins A and D, needed for proper growth and for strong tissue and bones. Essential Fatty Acids As directed on label. For normal growth. Or
Primrose OilAs directed on label. For normal growth. Kelp As directed on label. Contains natural iodine. An iodine deficiency can cause growth problems. L-Lysine As directed on label, on an empty stomach. Take with water or juice. Do not take with milk. Take with 50 mg vitamin B6 and 100 mg vitamin C for better absorption. Needed for normal growth and bone development. See Amino Acids for more information. Zinc As directed on label. Do not exceed a total of 100 mg daily from all supplements. Deficiency has been linked to growth problems. Use zinc gluconate lozenges or OptiZinc for best absorption. Important Calcium
And
MagnesiumAs directed on label. Needed for normal bone growth. Free-form amino acid complex As directed on label. Deficiency has been linked to growth disorders. Raw Pituitary Glandular As directed on label. For children. Stimulates growth. Helpful L-Ornithine As directed by health care provider. Helps promote release of growth hormone. Use only under a health care provider's supervision. Multiglandular complex As directed on label. For the endocrine, hormonal, and enzyme systems. Bio-Bifidus from American Biologics As directed on label. For bowel flora replacement to improve assimilation and elimination. Vitamin B complex
Plus Extra
Vitamin B6
(pyridoxine)50 mg daily.
50 mg 3 times daily, with meals.B vitamins work best when taken together.
Needed for the uptake of the amino acids and for proper growth.
Mountain Rose Herbs, Bulk Herbs A-B
Mountain Rose Herbs, Bulk Herbs C-D
Mountain Rose Herbs, Bulk Herbs E-J
Mountain Rose Herbs, Bulk Herbs K-O
Mountain Rose Herbs, Bulk Herbs P-R
Mountain Rose Herbs, Bulk Herbs S-Z
Click Here To Visit Herbal Remedies Product Page
NOTIFY YOUR MIDWIFE OR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER IF...
You or your child has have symptoms of a growth disorder. Medical evaluation will be required to determine underlying health issues.
Prescription for Nutritional Healing: The A-To-Z Guide To Supplements
-- by Phyllis A. Balch, James F. Balch
LINKS
FamilyVillage: Growth Disorders - Organizations & Links
