What are the reasons for not growing taller?
Sep 12, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Chen Jian
Introduction
In general, short stature may be caused by factors such as genetics, nutrition, precocious puberty, hypothyroidism, or growth hormone deficiency dwarfism. If experiencing any discomfort, it is recommended to seek professional medical treatment under a doctor's guidance. A balanced diet rich in calcium-containing foods—such as eggs, milk, fish, and shrimp—along with appropriate physical exercise, may help alleviate symptoms.
Generally, short stature may be caused by factors such as genetics, nutrition, precocious puberty, hypothyroidism, or growth hormone deficiency dwarfism. If experiencing any related issues, it is recommended to seek professional medical treatment under a doctor's guidance. Specific explanations are as follows:
1. Genetic Factors
Height is largely influenced by genetics. If parents or family members are short, an individual’s height may also be affected. Height limitations due to genetic factors usually cannot be altered medically. It is recommended to ensure adequate sleep and a balanced diet, which may help stimulate growth potential.
2. Nutritional Factors
Poor or unbalanced nutrition can impair normal skeletal growth and development, leading to restricted height. A balanced diet rich in nutrients such as protein, calcium, and vitamins is recommended, including foods like milk, eggs, meat, and vegetables.
3. Precocious Puberty
Precocious puberty occurs due to premature activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, causing early onset of puberty, accelerated bone development, and premature closure of growth plates, which may restrict final adult height. This condition may be accompanied by early appearance of secondary sexual characteristics, such as breast development in girls or testicular enlargement in boys. Treatment may include medications such as triptorelin acetate injection, medroxyprogesterone acetate tablets, or tamoxifen citrate tablets, as prescribed by a physician.
4. Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism results from insufficient secretion of thyroid hormones and may be associated with improper diet, autoimmune damage, or other factors. Low levels of thyroid hormones can impair skeletal and nervous system development, resulting in stunted growth. Symptoms may also include delayed intellectual development, slow reactions, and pale complexion. Treatment under medical supervision may include thyroid extract tablets, methylprednisolone tablets, or prednisone acetate tablets.
5. Growth Hormone Deficiency Dwarfism
Growth hormone deficiency dwarfism is caused by congenital factors or hypothalamic-pituitary disorders, leading to insufficient growth hormone secretion or impaired function, thereby affecting skeletal growth and resulting in short stature. Symptoms may include delayed growth and development, proportionate body build, and increased subcutaneous fat.
It is recommended to maintain a balanced diet with calcium-rich foods such as eggs, milk, fish, and shrimp, along with appropriate physical exercise, which may help alleviate symptoms.
