#asktheexperts hello .. my daughter is 7 years old but her height is not as per her age ..I feel from the last 6 months her height is stuck there is no proper growth .. what should I do to increase her height .

Question

#asktheexperts  hello .. my daughter is 7 years old but her height is not as per her age ..I feel from the last 6 months her height is stuck there is no proper growth .. what should I do to increase her height .

Accepted Answer

thanks  a lot

Accepted Answer

It's natural for parents to be concerned about their child's growth and development, especially if it seems like growth has slowed. At 7 years old, children typically experience growth spurts, but each child grows at their own pace. If you're concerned about your daughter’s height, here are a few things to consider and steps you can take to support her growth:

1. Ensure Proper Nutrition:

Balanced Diet: Make sure your daughter is eating a well-balanced diet that includes the following essential nutrients:

Proteins: Important for tissue growth and repair (chicken, fish, beans, eggs, nuts).

Calcium: Supports bone health (milk, yogurt, cheese, leafy greens).

Vitamin D: Essential for calcium absorption and bone development (sunlight exposure, fortified foods, eggs).

Iron: Important for overall health and growth (red meat, spinach, lentils).

Zinc: Important for growth (nuts, seeds, shellfish).

Carbohydrates: Provide energy for active growth (whole grains, fruits, vegetables).

2. Ensure Sufficient Sleep:

Growth hormone is primarily released during deep sleep, so make sure your daughter is getting enough rest. At her age, she needs about 10-12 hours of sleep per night.

Establish a regular sleep routine to help her fall asleep and stay asleep.

3. Encourage Physical Activity:

Exercise and regular physical activity are vital for promoting bone health and stimulating growth. Activities like:

Stretching exercises

Swimming

Jumping rope

Playing sports (basketball, skipping)

Yoga or pilates

These activities help in releasing growth hormones and strengthening bones and muscles.

4. Monitor Her Health:

Sometimes, slow growth can be due to underlying health issues, such as hormonal imbalances or nutrient deficiencies. If you notice a significant lack of growth, it’s a good idea to visit a pediatrician for a thorough checkup.

The doctor may assess whether your daughter’s growth pattern is consistent with her genetic potential or if there are any medical concerns, such as thyroid problems, growth hormone deficiencies, or nutritional deficiencies.

5. Limit Stress:

Stress can negatively impact a child's growth, so it’s important to help her feel emotionally secure and balanced. Be mindful of any emotional or psychological stressors that might affect her.

6. Monitor Growth Regularly:

Keep track of her height regularly (every 3-6 months) to assess if there is significant growth. If the growth stagnates, speak to her pediatrician.

Sometimes, growth slows down during certain ages (pre-puberty), and then there can be another spurt during puberty.

7. Genetics:

Remember, genetics play a significant role in a child's height. Consider the heights of family members, as this can provide some insight into your daughter’s growth potential.

If the growth pattern is consistent with your family history, it may just be a normal variation.

8. Supplements (Only if Recommended by a Doctor):

Some children may require vitamin or mineral supplements (such as vitamin D, calcium, or iron) if they have deficiencies. However, these should only be given after consulting a healthcare professional.

9. Consult a Pediatrician:

If you notice your daughter’s height has not increased over the past six months or if there are other signs of delayed growth (such as lack of appetite, tiredness, or emotional issues), it’s a good idea to consult a pediatrician or endocrinologist.

They may recommend growth hormone tests or other diagnostic tests to rule out underlying medical conditions.

By focusing on good nutrition, regular exercise, and proper rest, you can support your daughter’s growth. If you’re still concerned, seeking guidance from a healthcare provider is always the best course of action.