Wondering whether you will grow tall or stay short? As a matter
of fact, your fate is already written by your genes. There is a strong
bond between height and genetics that neither of us can deny. However,
it would be wrong to place the responsibility solely on our genes. What
we eat and how active we are also has a say in our final height for a
nutritious diet and regular exercise allows a child or individual to
reach his or her full growth potential.
Like weight loss, there
are a few foods you should eat in abundance while a few others that
should be consumed in limited quantities if you want to grow taller.
Certain foods groups promote normal bone growth and strength, but a few
others cause bone degeneration when eaten in excess. So, if you're
wondering how you can add inches by simply making smart food choices,
you should read on.
Dairy Products
Dairy
products - products made from the milk of mammals - are a must-include
in a height- increasing diet. Dairy products such as milk, butter,
cheese and yogurt are high-energy foods. Additionally, they are rich
source of calcium. Calcium helps build healthy bones and also supports
the formation of new ones. Dairy products also supply the body with
Vitamin D. Vitamin D is essential for the absorption of dietary calcium.
Deficiency of Vitamin D may cause rickets, bowed legs and knocking
knees - conditions that hamper proper growth or result in a shorter
appearance. Milk, cheese and yogurt also provide protein. Protein builds
muscle mass and supports the skeletal structure.
Children during
the pubescent age as well as adults should eat dairy products in large
amounts. If you are trying to lose weight simultaneously, you can opt
for the low-fat varieties.
Leafy Greens
When
it comes to adding inches with food, there's nothing to beat the
greens. Kale, collard, Swiss chard, spinach, broccoli, cabbage and
lettuce are a few of the green leafy vegetables you should eat. These
vegetables contain a good amount of calcium. They are an abundant source
of Vitamins A, C, E and minerals such as potassium, Folate and iron.
Vitamins and minerals promote the growth of bone tissue.
Starches and Grains
Starches
and grains are recommended as part of a height-increasing diet because
they provide a sufficient amount of calories needed to sustain and
support growth. Besides, they contain other necessary nutriments such
B-group vitamins, fiber, iron, magnesium and selenium. Children,
particularly adolescents should increase their intake of whole grains in
the form of brown rice, whole wheat bread, popcorn and whole grain
pasta.
Meat, Poultry and Sea food
Meat,
poultry and sea food share a few features when it comes their
nutritional value. All the three foods are good sources of protein. They
supply amino acids required to build new cells be is hair, the skin,
muscles or bone tissues. These foods also contain Vitamin E, zinc,
magnesium and iron. A deficiency of zinc retards growth. Sea foods also
provided healthy fats - Omega fatty acids.
Beans and Legumes
Finally, you should eat beans and legumes in judicious amounts as they contain iron, zinc and proteins.
