Glossary · Growth

Growth spurt

A short period of rapid height and weight gain. Most children have spurts in infancy, around ages 6–8, and again at puberty. Appetite and food volume increase noticeably, which is normal — restricting calories during a spurt is harmful.

Related terms

BMI percentile (children)
Growth chart
Catch-up growth
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.