Taller stature after postnatal rapid weight gain in early infancy predicts overweight status at age 3

Aim: To evaluate whether postnatal rapid weight gain in early infancy is associated with subsequent tall stature and being overweight at age 3, and taller stature after postnatal rapid weight gain predicts overweight status at age 3. Methods: Data from a retrospective cohort study (time period 2003-2004, total number = 1353 subjects in Kumamoto, Japan) were used. The rate of weight gain during the first 3-4 months was calculated as 100 g/month, and postnatal rapid and slow growth were calculated by using weight standard deviation (SD). Overweight status at 3 years of age was determined according to the definition of the International Obesity Task Force. Results: In total, 4.7% of subjects were overweight at age 3. Postnatal rapid weight gain, associated with height increases until age 3 (p < 0.0001), and the rate of weight gain were significant risk factors for being overweight in children at age 3. Taller heights at 6-9 months and 17-20 months of age following postnatal rapid weight gain were associated with overweight status at age 3 (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Taller stature following postnatal rapid weight gain in early infancy predicts overweight status at age 3; additionally, rapid infancy weight gain contributes to the acceleration of statural growth in overweight children.