Question
My daughter just turned ten and is 1.4 meters tall. She recently had a bone age test, which showed that her bone age is over twelve to thirteen years old. We are worried that the advanced bone age may affect her future height growth. We would like to know how much more she can grow and how we can help her grow taller.
Answer
Height growth is primarily influenced by genetic factors, with environmental factors playing a secondary role. The natural growth and development period generally ends before the age of eighteen, at which point the growth plates usually close, reducing the possibility of further height increase. At ten years old, the growth plates have not yet closed, making it the golden period for adolescent height growth. It is recommended to ensure that the child gets enough sleep, as growth hormone is released most during deep sleep, and to encourage participation in sports like basketball that stimulate height growth. Diet-wise, it’s beneficial to consume protein-rich foods such as various types of lean meat and milk. We hope these suggestions are helpful to you and wish you health.