Maximizing Growth Potential: Can Nutrition Help My Child Reach 180cm?

Final Growth Spurts in Height

Hello Doctor, yesterday I took my son for a follow-up appointment.
He has grown 0.7 cm in the past three months (currently 172.7 cm).
At the end of June, we had a bone age assessment done, and the growth plates are nearly closed (there's a little space left at the wrist).
The doctor estimated that he has about 1 to 1.5 years left to grow.
The doctor prescribed L-arginine, L-lysine, zinc, and B6 supplements for him to take in an effort to maximize growth before the growth plates close completely.
My child hopes to reach 180 cm, but the doctor said that with the supplements and maintaining a consistent routine (going to bed early, drinking fresh milk, and skipping rope for over 500 times), there might be a possibility of growing an additional 5 cm, but reaching 180 cm is unlikely.
I am also massaging the Yongquan point daily, hoping to help my child grow taller before the growth plates fully close.
Doctor, do you think that with these supplements, there is really a possibility of growing an additional 5 cm? Or is that actually quite a stretch and unlikely to be achieved? Lastly, thank you for your patient response, thank you!

Niming, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/09/25

Dr. Xiao Kaiwen reply Pediatrics

As long as the growth plates have not fused, there is still a possibility of increasing height.
However, it is uncertain how many centimeters one will ultimately grow, or whether it will exceed 5 centimeters.
Height increase is influenced by many factors, such as genetic inheritance, nutrition, healthy lifestyle habits, and exercise, among others.
What can be confirmed is that by adhering to these factors, the final height increase will certainly be greater than if none of these measures are taken.

Reply Date: 2016/09/25

More Info

Maximizing growth potential in children, especially during their teenage years, is a common concern for many parents. Your son, currently at 172.7 cm, is approaching the end of his growth phase, as indicated by the assessment of his bone age and the status of his growth plates. While it is true that the potential for growth diminishes as the growth plates begin to close, there are still several factors that can influence his final height.

Firstly, it is important to understand that genetics plays a significant role in determining height. If both parents are tall, it is more likely that their children will also be tall. However, environmental factors such as nutrition, physical activity, and overall health can also impact growth. In your son's case, he has a year to a year and a half left for potential growth, and while reaching 180 cm may be ambitious, achieving an additional 5 cm is not out of the question.

The nutritional supplements prescribed by his doctor, including L-arginine, lysine, zinc, and vitamin B6, are known to support growth and development. L-arginine and lysine are amino acids that can promote the production of growth hormone, while zinc and vitamin B6 are essential for various metabolic processes, including those related to growth. Ensuring that your son adheres to a balanced diet rich in protein, calcium, and vitamins is crucial. Foods such as lean meats, dairy products, legumes, and vegetables should be included in his daily meals to provide the necessary nutrients for growth.

In addition to nutrition, sleep is a critical factor in growth. Growth hormone is primarily secreted during deep sleep, so ensuring that your son gets adequate rest is essential. Aim for a consistent sleep schedule, ideally going to bed early to maximize growth hormone secretion during the night.

Physical activity is another important component. While your son enjoys jumping rope, which is excellent for stimulating growth, he should also engage in other forms of exercise that promote overall fitness and bone health. Activities like swimming, cycling, or even stretching exercises can be beneficial. The key is to maintain a regular exercise routine that he enjoys, as this will encourage him to stay active.

Massage therapy, such as the acupressure you are providing at the Yongquan point, may offer some benefits in terms of relaxation and circulation, but it is unlikely to significantly impact height. However, it can be a comforting routine that promotes well-being.

Ultimately, while achieving a height of 180 cm may be unrealistic given the current growth trajectory, aiming for an additional 5 cm is a reasonable goal. It is essential to focus on the factors within your control—nutrition, sleep, and exercise—while also managing expectations based on genetic predisposition. Encourage your son to embrace his current height and focus on being healthy and active, as these attributes are far more important than the number on a measuring tape.

In conclusion, while there are no guarantees in growth, the combination of proper nutrition, adequate sleep, and regular physical activity can certainly help your son maximize his growth potential. Continue to support him in these areas, and remember that every individual's growth journey is unique.

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