Final answer:
Babies typically double their birth weight by six months and triple it by one year. Growth patterns also involve rapid length increase, with notable changes in growth rates after the first two months and six months respectively. Monitoring these patterns is crucial for assessing a baby's health and development.
Step-by-step explanation:
The pattern of weight gain in babies can be characterized by significant growth within the first year of life. Initially, after a slight weight loss right after birth, an infant will typically gain about 28 grams per day in the first two months. This rate then changes, and from two months on, babies generally gain about 0.45 kg per month. By six months, infants usually double their birth weight, and by one year, they triple their birth weight.
In terms of length, the pattern is also noteworthy. Infants grow approximately 2.5 cm per month for the first six months and 1.2 cm per month during the second half of the year. By twelve months, many infants nearly double their birth length. It is important to monitor these patterns as deviations may indicate health issues, such as undernourishment or the risk of future obesity.
Figure A3 in the provided reference illustrates the relationship between height and weight for both boys and girls, indicating a consistent pattern of growth in American children during the first three years of life. It is essential for health professionals to compare an infant's growth to standard values to ensure normal development, while also recognizing that genetics play a significant role in determining individual growth rates and final stature.