We all have heard our moms saying, “go to bed early – it will grow you tall and strong”. As we grow older, we realize that there might be some truth to what our moms were saying all along. So, does sleep make you taller?
The answer is YES, sleep does affect your height. In fact, sleep is one of the most important factors in human growth and development.
During sleep, our bodies produce human growth hormone (HGH). This hormone is essential for cell growth and regeneration. It helps us grow taller, build muscle, and heal from injuries.
Sleep also aids in weight loss!
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How Does Sleeping Make You Taller?
Most people grow the majority of their height during the adolescent growth spurt, which generally begins around age 10 for girls and age 12 for boys and runs throughout the teenage – a few experience height growth even in their early 20s.
During this time, large amounts of the hormones known as human growth hormone (HGH) and testosterone are released into the bloodstream, causing rapid growth of bones and muscles. They also help with maintaining the body and improving physical performance.
Human growth hormone (HGH) helps to regulate growth and development in the body. It is produced by the pituitary gland, and it plays a role in cell reproduction and regeneration.
HGH levels are known to peak during childhood and adolescence, which is why teenagers tend to grow the most. Particularly, the HGH levels increase during periods of deep sleep, which is why getting enough rest is important for maintaining healthy growth.
Another hormone that contributes to height growth is the insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1). Like HGH, IGF-1 is produced by the pituitary gland and helps to stimulate the production of new bone and muscle cells.
Studies have shown that IGF-1 levels are increased by both HGH and exercise and proper rest, which suggests that these two factors may work together to promote growth.
Research has found that sleep is essential for the proper release of these hormones. In one study, researchers found that boys who slept less than 8 hours per night had lower levels of HGH and testosterone than those who slept more.
Similarly, another study found that girls who slept less than 9 hours per night were shorter, on average, than those who slept more.
So, if you are wondering what makes you taller? A good night’s sleep is one of the height growth factors! So, aim for a good night’s sleep if you are looking to add a few inches to your height. In addition to helping you grow taller, it’ll also help you feel your best during the day.
There are multiple supplements of HGH that athletes take or inject to stunt grow their body and muscles, they also help in gaining height. We highly advise consulting with a doctor or professional practitioner before taking any supplement.
Worried about your weight too? Here are some foods that burn fat at night.
How Much Sleep Do You Need To Grow Taller?
Now we know that HGH is responsible for the growth of bones and muscles, so it stands to reason that getting enough sleep during teenage could impact height. However, there are many other factors that contribute to height, including genetics, diet, and exercise. So, it is difficult to say how much of an impact sleep has.
In general, experts recommend that children and teenagers should get 8-10 hours of sleep per night to keep growth plates open. However, some people may need more or less depending on their lifestyle, diet, and overall health.
Results from several studies state that people who are physically more active and get enough sleep are generally taller than those who have a sedentary lifestyle and don’t get enough shut-eye.
| Age | Recommended Sleep Hours |
| 4 – 12 months | 12 – 16 hours |
| 1 – 2 years | 11 – 14 hours |
| 3 – 5 years | 10 – 13 hour |
| 6 – 12 years | 9 – 12 hours |
| 13 – 18 years | 8 – 10 hours |
| 18+ years | 7+ hours |
Bottom Line
To sum it up, sleep is one of the most important factors in human growth and development. During sleep, our bodies produce human growth hormone (HGH), which is essential for cell growth and regeneration. HGH helps us grow taller, build muscle, and heal from injuries.
So, if you are wondering what makes you taller, a deep night’s sleep is one of the height growth factors! You should aim to sleep 8-10 hours of sleep every night to keep your growth plates open and your hormones active.
Frequently Asked Questions: (FAQs)
How to grow taller as a teenager?
There are many things you can do to grow taller during your teenage years, including getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet, and exercising regularly. You can also try taking supplements, such as vitamin D and calcium, to make your bones strong and support your growth. While you won’t be able to control all of the factors that contribute to your height, you can take steps to improve your chances of growing taller.
How to stunt your growth?
There is no guaranteed way to stunt your growth. However, there are some things that may make you appear shorter, such as poor posture, slouching, and not getting enough workouts and sleep. Additionally, smoking cigarettes and drinking alcohol can lead to health problems that may impact your height. If you are concerned about your height, talk to your doctor for advice.
Do you grow taller if you sleep?
Yes, sleep is one of the most important factors in human growth and development. Our bodies produce human growth hormone (HGH) while we sleep. This hormone is essential for cell growth and regeneration. It helps us grow taller, builds muscle, and heal from injuries.
