The height and overall growth of a person can’t solely be determined by their genes, while genes do play an essential role, one can still make certain changes to their lifestyle in order to reach their maximum height potential. In this blog, we will explore 5 changes individuals can implement to their lifestyles that could result in increased height growth.

1. Exercise
When teens engage in physical activity like running, jumping, and strength training, it strengthens their bones and muscles. This can contribute to proper bone development and potentially increase height. Sports like swimming, skipping, and cycling help increase height.

2. Build Healthy Eating Patterns
During adolescence, teenagers often skip meals, which results in excessive hunger and overeating. The long-term effect of this on their nutrition It is very essential for teenagers to consume a balanced diet, which consists of eating fruits, vegetables, fish, whole grains, and dairy, which provide vitamins and minerals and help with stronger bones, better immunity, and organ health. These foods also have vitamin D, which supports growth. By focusing on a balanced diet, teens can support their overall health and development.

3. Getting enough sleep
During puberty, teenagers undergo changes in their sleep-wake cycle, making it difficult for them to get enough sleep. However, it is crucial for teens to prioritise sufficient sleep, as recommended by the National Sleep Foundation, which is around 8 ½ to 9 hours per night. This minimum amount of sleep is essential for growth because, during sleep, the body releases human growth hormone (HGH), which aids in the growth process. Insufficient sleep can lead to a decrease in the production of this hormone, potentially affecting height. Therefore, getting enough sleep is important for teenagers to support their growth and development.

4. Stress
Chronic stress occurs in teenagers who feel overwhelmed, leading to strong emotional outbursts, difficulty sleeping, and repetitive thoughts. Approximately 51% of teenagers experience this stress once a month. This stress can negatively impact hormone production necessary for bone growth, such as growth hormone and insulin-like growth factor.

5. Good Posture
Encouraging teenagers to practise good posture can have a positive effect on height growth. When they do not have good posture, it can compress the spine and make a person appear shorter. Encouraging teenagers to maintain proper posture while sitting, standing, and walking can help optimise their height potential. This involves keeping the back straight, shoulders relaxed, and head held high.

Conclusion
In conclusion, to maximise height growth potential, individuals can make certain lifestyle changes. Regular exercise, healthy eating patterns, sufficient sleep, managing chronic stress, and maintaining good posture can all contribute to optimal growth. By adopting these habits, individuals may increase their chances of reaching their maximum height potential.