Glossary · Growth

Catch-up growth

Accelerated growth that occurs after a period of slowed growth (illness, undernutrition, prematurity), as the body returns to its expected curve. Catch-up growth requires temporarily higher calorie and protein intake than maintenance.

Related terms

BMI percentile (children)
Growth chart
Growth spurt
Failure to thrive
Childhood obesity
WHO growth standards

Miriel uses this concept across food scans, meal plans, and AI Coach responses where it is relevant to a child's profile. For the underlying clinical and scientific basis, see the research page.