Whilst it may not be something that many people wish to hear, your height is predetermined by your genetic code. This means that from the day that you were born, you were destined to be the height that you are now. While genetics do play a very pivotal part in determining how tall we can be, there is some room to grow, so to speak.
If you’re still a teenager, there are several things that you can do, or avoid doing, that can help you to grow taller. Following the steps listed below will not create a growth spurt overnight. They will, however, give your body what it needs to grow to its full potential.
Avoid Things That Stunt Growth
If you are looking to grow as tall as you possibly can, there are a few things that you can do to help your body do just that. Certain activities or lifestyle habits have been proven to stunt growth. Avoiding these habits will give you a chance to be as tall as you can be.
- Caffeine – Although caffeine has never actually been proven to stunt growth on its own, it does cause sleeplessness. As an adolescent, you need approximately 9 to 10 hours of sleep in order to be fully rested. Even if you are able to fall asleep after consuming caffeinated products, chances are that it is not a deep and healthy sleep.
- Smoking – Unlike caffeine, smoking has been proven to stunt growth. According to a study carried out by Columbia University’s Internet Health Resource, research proved that adolescents who smoke are, on average, shorter than those who are non smokers. Though they can not tell the exact reason why smokers tend to be shorter, it still seems to be true.
- Steroids – This may not effect many people but steroids will stop you from growing if you take them before you have reached your maximum height. This means that, as a male, you could effect your growth if you take them anytime before the age of 26. This does not only include illegal steroids but also those prescribed by a doctor. Children who take a clinical steroid via an inhaler as a treatment for asthma are almost an inch shorter than those who do not.
Sleep Can Help You Grow
As a youth, it is important to get plenty of rest. Research tells us that preteens, teenagers and young adults need between 8 and 10 hours of sleep. This is because your body uses that time to not only grow but to regenerate damaged tissue.
If you are not getting enough sleep, you are not giving your body the time it needs to heal and grow. Not sleeping enough on a daily basis can greatly effect how tall you grow to be. This is why getting a good night’s sleep is so important.
Eating Healthy Foods
Another sure fire way to help your body grow as tall as it can be is to provide it with the fuel that it needs to do so. This means, the right amount of proteins, vitamins and minerals. Here are some foods that are known to be important to the body.
- Carbohydrates – These calories will help to give your body energy even when you haven’t eaten. Though some adults avoid them, they are important in development of a healthy body and if you are looking to grow.
- Calcium – Calcium can be found in dairy products and many vegetables. This mineral is very important when it comes to healthy bones and muscles.
- Vitamin B – This vitamin will increase energy levels in a healthy way and promote a sound sleep.
- Vitamin D – You can get vitamin D by drinking milk and spending time in the sun. Vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium.
The 5 best foods for growing taller at:
- Eggs
- Milk
- Soybeans
- Oatmeal
- Chicken Salad
As you can see, there are many ways that you can help your body grow as tall as it can, even if you are predisposed to being slightly shorter.
However, if you’re an adult then the above tips might not work for you since you’re passed the ‘growth stage’. Fortunately, there’s a guide that will teach you how – Grow Taller 4 Idiots.
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