One of the most discussed physical attributes is height, particularly during puberty and adolescence. Everybody wonders if one can become taller once he or she has passed 18 years old. The short answer: it’s improbable—but not out of the question.
Learning How Height Operates
Height is mostly genetic in nature. Nevertheless, nutrition and physical activity levels and general health during your developing years are very important too.
Most individuals experience their maximum growth spurts in puberty, and this usually ends by the age of 16 in girls and 18 in boys. Following this, the epiphyseal plates in the bones usually close up. After bones close up these plates, bones are no longer able to grow in length and thus your height will no longer grow.
Can You Grow Tall After 18?
- For everyone else, height increases dramatically slow down or come to an end once 18 is reached because the growth plates fuse together. Some exceptions are:
- Late bloomers: Some individuals develop late compared to the norm. If you are a late bloomer, you may still reach an extra inch or two past 18 years old.
- Hormone Imbalances: Uncommon disorders such as growth hormone excess (acromegaly or gigantism) will lead to ongoing growth into early adulthood.
Stretching and posture: Good posture, yoga, and exercises that decompress the spine will make you seem to be tall by improving your alignment—but will not make your bones any longer.
Ways to Maximize Your Height Potential.
Even if you are beyond your peak growing years, there are still some methods to stand tall and feel more confident:
- Exercise on a Regular Basis: Swimming, stretching and yoga will enhance posture and flexibility.
- Follow a Balanced Diet: Ensure that you consume adequate amounts of calcium, protein, zinc, and vitamin D and K to promote bone health.
- Sleep Tight: Growth hormone is released mainly during deep sleep, so adequate sleep is imperative—particularly during your growing years.
- Steer Clear Of Growth Inhibitors: Smoking, high alcohol intake, and fast food cause bone and posture problems.Although it is not very common to grow taller once you reach the age of 18 years old, there are still ways with combined healthy practices to maintain your prime and feel your very best. Most importantly, do not forget that your value and your potential are not defined by your height.
