Nutritional deficiencies will cause poor growth eventually – a balanced diet with adequate calories and protein is essential for growth. There are a number of intestinal disorders which may lead to poor absorption of food. Failure to absorb nutrients and energy from food then leads to growth failure.

 

Children with these conditions may have complaints that involve the stomach or intestines (bowels) and may have bowel movements that are unusual in pattern, appearance and odor. Deficiency of these conditions often involves a special diet. Normal growth usually resumes after the condition has been treated.

​

Diseases of the kidneys, lungs, and heart may lead to growth failure as a result of inadequate intake of nutrients or buildup of waste products and undesirable substances in the body. Children with diabetes, or “high sugar,” may grow slowly, particularly when their blood sugar is not kept near the normal range.

​

Any disease that is severe, untreated or poorly controlled can have an adverse effect on growth. Severe stress or emotional trauma can also cause growth failure.