Will lack of sleep in children affect their height growth?
My child has been under heavy academic pressure lately and doesn't get enough sleep. I've noticed his height isn't increasing as quickly as before, and I'm worried. Can insufficient sleep really affect a child's growth in height? What should I do?
Doctor's answer (1)
In general, lack of sleep in children can affect their height growth.
Growth hormone is an important hormone in children's growth and development. It is secreted most actively during the night, especially during deep sleep stages. Insufficient sleep directly affects the normal secretion of growth hormone. When children do not get enough sleep or experience poor sleep quality, the amount of growth hormone secreted at night decreases, which in turn affects bone growth and height development. Additionally, chronic sleep deprivation can lead to problems such as inattention, decreased memory, and mood swings in children, all of which may indirectly impact their physical health and growth and development.
Parents should pay attention to their children's sleep quality, ensure they have sufficient sleep time each day, and strive to create a quiet and comfortable sleep environment for them. Establishing regular sleep habits and avoiding the use of electronic devices are also important. At the same time, parents should also pay attention to their children's eating habits, maintaining balanced and diverse nutrient intake to promote comprehensive and healthy growth.
