It’s Just Growing Pains

Protein

Every parent has heard it—“It’s just growing pains.”
When your child complains about sore legs, feels tired all the time, or has mood swings, that’s usually the go-to answer. And while growing can definitely come with some aches and changes, chalking everything up to "just growing pains" can cause us to miss important clues.

Sometimes, these so-called growing pains are actually your child’s body asking for help—specifically in the form of missing nutrients.

Let’s explore what those hidden signs may be, and how you can tell the difference between normal development and a body that’s running low on key support.

When “Growing Pains” Might Not Be Normal

Growing bones and muscles do go through phases of stretching and soreness, especially during rapid development. But consistent, unexplained pain—especially if paired with fatigue, emotional changes, sleep problems, or poor immune function—might mean your child is missing essential vitamins or minerals.

Think of nutrients as the building blocks your child’s body needs to grow strong, stay focused, and repair itself. Without them, the body has to work harder—and symptoms start to show up.

Signs Your Child May Be Nutrient Deficient

Here are some of the most common red flags we see in our office that are often misdiagnosed—or dismissed entirely:
1. Aches and Pains (Especially at Night)

While occasional discomfort is normal during growth spurts, persistent leg pain, muscle cramps, or joint aches might indicate a lack of:

  • Magnesium (calms muscles, supports nerve function)
  • Calcium + Vitamin D3/K2 (bone strength + development)
  • B Vitamins (support energy and tissue repair)

Try a clean magnesium supplement or trace mineral drops in water, and ensure they’re getting daily Vitamin D3/K2 support.

2. Mood Swings, Irritability, or Anxiety

Nutrient deficiencies can directly affect the brain—especially during the demanding years of childhood and puberty. Key nutrients that support emotional regulation include:

These support neurotransmitter balance, calm overstimulation, and help kids regulate emotions naturally—without relying on medications.

3. Fatigue or Trouble Waking Up

If your child wakes up tired, struggles to focus in class, or crashes mid-afternoon, they may be low in:

Pro tip: Iron deficiency is especially common in picky eaters or kids with gut issues.

4. Frequent Illness, Allergies, or Inflammation

A struggling immune system often points back to a gut that isn’t absorbing nutrients properly. Look for:

If your child gets sick often or has eczema, asthma, or unexplained inflammation, it’s worth exploring both their immune health and gut health through comprehensive testing.

5. Slow Wound Healing or Weak Nails/Hair

Cuts that take forever to heal, brittle nails, or excessive hair shedding could be signs of low:

How Do You Know What They’re Missing?

Guessing isn’t enough. That’s why we offer comprehensive testing to uncover what your child’s body is actually low in—not just “normal” levels on a basic lab.

Our most helpful tools include:

Remember: It’s not just what your child eats—it’s what they absorb.

What If You Already Have Food Allergy Results?

Amazing! That’s the perfect starting point.

We offer a Back to School Bundle with Dr. Lena where she’ll:

  • Review your child’s results line by line
  • Teach you how to build nutrient-dense meals around what they can safely eat
  • Share recipes, food lists, and a personalized binder to take home

Help you feel confident (not overwhelmed) in the kitchen

Kid-Approved Supplement Staples

These are some of our favorite ways to gently fill nutrient gaps—without dyes, additives, or sugar crashes:

We carry trusted brands in our office and we can help you build a custom supplement schedule for your child’s unique needs.

Growing Kids Deserve a Foundation of Real Health

When a child is cranky, tired, in pain, or constantly sick—it’s not “just a phase.” It’s a signal.

In our clinic, we help you listen to what your child’s body is trying to say, uncover the missing pieces, and build a plan for long-term, vibrant health.

Ready to find out what’s really going on?
Book a discovery call, schedule a test review, or set up your Food Education Consultation with Dr. Lena.
Because when kids are nourished, they don’t just grow—they thrive.