Can I Still Grow Taller at 17? Height Growth Potential

Height issues

As a 17-year-old in the second year of high school, standing at 165 cm, you are hoping to grow to over 170 cm.
Your father is 160 cm and your mother is 155 cm.
You experienced significant growth from sixth grade to the first year of junior high, but your height has not increased much since entering high school.
You regularly engage in sports like basketball and jump rope, and you go to bed before 11 PM.
However, your growth has been minimal.

You are wondering if you still have a chance to grow taller and if you should consider taking growth supplements.

At your age, it is possible that you may still have some growth potential, as growth plates in the bones may not have fully closed yet.
However, genetic factors play a significant role in determining height.
It is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or an endocrinologist who can assess your growth plates through an X-ray and provide personalized advice.

Regarding growth supplements, it is important to approach them with caution.
Many products on the market claim to promote height increase, but their effectiveness is often unproven.
A balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep are the best ways to support your overall growth and health.

Xiao Hao, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/03/10

Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Family Medicine

Dear Mr.
Xiaohao,
1.
Height is influenced by genetic factors inherited from parents.
Based on the information you provided, it seems that your own efforts have allowed you to exceed your parents' height, which is indeed commendable.
Theoretically, going to bed early can increase the secretion of growth hormone; this is primarily because exposure to light, particularly sunlight during the day, significantly inhibits the secretion of growth hormone.
In fact, going to sleep around 8 or 9 PM may yield better results.
This might explain why countries like the Netherlands, Germany, and those in Northern Europe have the highest average heights globally.
2.
A balanced diet is essential, especially one rich in protein and calcium, while avoiding high-sugar foods.
Excessive sugar intake can reduce the secretion of growth hormone.
3.
Engaging in physical activities, such as basketball, jump rope, and volleyball, can also promote growth.
4.
As for whether you will grow taller, it is generally necessary to check whether the growth plates in your bones have fused.
If they have calcified and fused, then further height increase is unlikely.
Physiologically, the growth plates begin to fuse gradually with the onset of sexual maturity.
It would be more appropriate for you to consult with a specialist in the Metabolism Department for further evaluation.
Best regards.

Reply Date: 2019/03/10

More Info

At 17 years old, you are approaching the end of your growth period, as most males experience their final growth spurts during their teenage years, typically between ages 14 and 18. The growth plates in your bones, which are responsible for height increase, begin to close after puberty, and once they are fully closed, further height increase is unlikely.
From your description, it seems that you have experienced significant growth during your earlier years, particularly between sixth grade and the first year of junior high. This is common, as many adolescents experience rapid growth during puberty. However, it appears that your growth has slowed down considerably since entering high school. This could be due to several factors, including genetics, nutrition, physical activity, and overall health.

Genetics plays a crucial role in determining your height. Given that your parents are relatively shorter (your father is 160 cm and your mother is 155 cm), it is possible that your genetic potential for height may be limited compared to peers with taller parents. However, this does not mean that you cannot grow taller; it simply indicates that your growth potential may be influenced by your family history.

You mentioned that you engage in physical activities like basketball and jump rope, which are excellent for overall health and can promote good posture. Regular exercise is beneficial for maintaining a healthy body, but it is important to note that while physical activity can support growth during the growth phase, it does not directly cause height increase once the growth plates have closed.

Regarding your sleep habits, getting adequate sleep is essential for growth and development, especially during adolescence. Growth hormone, which plays a significant role in height increase, is primarily secreted during deep sleep. Therefore, maintaining a consistent sleep schedule and ensuring you get enough rest is crucial.

As for the use of growth supplements or medications, it is important to approach this with caution. Many products marketed as "height growth" supplements lack scientific evidence to support their effectiveness. Additionally, some may even pose health risks. It is always best to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.

In summary, while you may still have a slight chance of growing taller, it is unlikely that you will reach your goal of 170 cm given your current age and the information provided. Focus on maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and sufficient sleep. If you have concerns about your growth or overall health, consider consulting with a healthcare provider or an endocrinologist who specializes in growth and development. They can provide personalized advice and may conduct assessments to better understand your growth potential.

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