Will Ashwagandha Increase Height?
Many people wish they were taller. Although height is largely determined by genetics, some wonder if supplements like ashwagandha can help increase height by supporting growth during development. Ashwagandha is an herb used in Ayurvedic medicine with a wide range of purported benefits.
While ashwagandha is associated with improved strength and vitality, current research does not support the idea that it can directly increase height once someone has gone through puberty. However, the following mechanisms provide an overview of ashwagandhas effects and how it could potentially impact factors related to growth in developing children.
Ashwagandhas Effects on Hormones
Human growth hormone (HGH) is essential for growth during childhood and adolescence. It stimulates production of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), which promotes cartilage and bone growth. HGH levels peak during puberty when growth rate is highest.
Studies have found that ashwagandha may increase production of human growth hormone. It also boosts levels of antioxidants, which protect growth hormone and IGF-1 from oxidative damage. These effects could theoretically promote growth in those whose plates have not fused.
Impact on Thyroid Hormones
Thyroid hormones like triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) influence metabolic processes that impact childhood development and linear growth. Adequate levels are needed to support growth.
Animal studies show ashwagandha can increase circulating T3 and T4 levels. The herbs adaptogenic properties may also help normalize thyroid hormone concentrations if they are low. This provides additional hormonal support for growth in developing young people.
Anti-Inflammatory and Anti-Stress Effects
Chronic inflammation and stress can suppress growth by negatively impacting hormones and impairing tissue healing. Cortisol, the primary stress hormone, slows production of growth factors when elevated.
Research shows ashwagandha has potent anti-inflammatory and anti-stress properties. It reduces pro-inflammatory markers and cortisol levels. Limiting inflammation and managing stress with ashwagandha may help remove barriers to reaching maximum height potential.
Optimizing Nutrition Status
Good nutrition provides the building blocks necessary for growth. Deficiencies in certain vitamins and minerals can restrict growth even when other hormones are adequate. These include vitamin D, zinc, calcium and iron.
Some studies indicate ashwagandha may increase absorption of nutrients and act as a growth-enhancing tonic. Improving nutrition status ensures the raw materials are available for bone elongation and development.
Enhancing Bone Strength
Bone strength influences how tall someone can grow. Stronger bones are able to elongate more under the influence of HGH and thyroid hormones. Weak bones limited by genetic or nutritional factors may be unable to reach full height potential.
Research shows ashwagandha can increase bone strength by stimulating osteoblasts involved in bone formation. It also boosts collagen production and bone mineral density. This effect could allow for greater stature by improving bone quality and resilience.
Effective Dosage for Growth
If considering ashwagandha for height increase in a still growing child, use an appropriate dosage suitable for pediatric populations. Most research studying ashwagandhas growth effects have used doses between 50-100 mg per pound of body weight.
The optimal ashwagandha dosage for growth may vary based on the extract concentration and individual factors. Work with a knowledgeable healthcare practitioner to find the right dosage to support healthy childhood development.
Look for High Withanolide Content
Withanolides are the active compounds in ashwagandha responsible for most of its effects. Seek out a supplement with at least 5% withanolide content standardized to withaferin A and withanolide D.
High quality ashwagandha extracts purified to contain potent withanolide concentrations ensure you get the desired benefits at a reasonable dosage level.
Divide Doses Throughout the Day
It is best to divide ashwagandha doses throughout the day rather than take it all at once. This provides a steadier concentration of active compounds in the bloodstream throughout the day.
For example, divide the target daily dosage into three equal doses taken with breakfast, lunch and dinner. Consistency is important when using ashwagandha for height increase.
Take with Food for Absorption
Ashwagandha supplements should be taken with food for optimal absorption. Healthy fats in the diet enhance the bioavailability of withanolides and maximize their effects in the body.
Make sure to always take ashwagandha as part of a meal containing healthy fats like avocado, nut butters, olive oil or fatty fish to improve efficacy.
Follow Prescribed Length of Use
Using ashwagandha for height increase requires consistency over time to allow its effects on growth to accumulate. Follow the prescribed length of use, often 3-6 months, to get the desired results.
Prematurely stopping supplementation could limit ashwagandhas growth-enhancing benefits. Do not exceed recommended treatment duration without medical guidance.
Monitoring Growth Progress on Ashwagandha
When using ashwagandha to maximize growth potential, make sure to monitor progress through periodic height measurements and medical check-ins. This allows evaluation of treatment efficacy.
Measure Height Monthly
Height should be measured monthly to assess growth velocity. Have the childs height measured at the same time of day each month. Growth of at least 2 inches per year is expected during puberty.
Lack of progress over 3 months may indicate ashwagandha supplementation needs adjustment to improve growth effects.
Check Growth Factor Levels
Testing blood levels of growth factors like HGH, IGF-1, and thyroid hormone can reveal if ashwagandha is working. Levels should increase within the normal range on treatment.
These lab markers also help rule out other growth limiting issues not corrected by ashwagandha supplementation alone.
Monitor Bone Development
X-rays can detect growth plate fusion indicating bones have finished growing. X-rays of hands and wrists may be done periodically to ensure growth potential remains.
A pediatrician can use X-ray results and growth charts to determine if progress is on track.
Address Any Nutrient Deficiencies
Testing vitamin and mineral status can identify any nutritional deficiencies limiting bone growth. These may need specific supplementation alongside ashwagandha.
Nutrients like vitamin D, zinc, folate and iron should be optimized to support growth.
Safety and Side Effects
When used appropriately, ashwagandha is very safe for children. However, the following side effects can occur in some cases:
- Mild stomach upset
- Diarrhea
- Increased acid production
- Drowsiness
Ashwagandha may increase stomach acid production. Avoid taking it on an empty stomach or with reflux-triggering foods.
The herb also has a sedative effect. Adjust dosage and timing if it causes excess drowsiness. Seek medical advice if any concerning side effects develop.
Avoid During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
While ashwagandha is likely safe during childhood and adolescence, avoid taking it during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Large doses may cause uterine contractions and lead to complications.
Watch for Allergic Reactions
Seek emergency care if symptoms of an allergic reaction develop, including hives, itching, rash, swelling, difficulty breathing or anaphylaxis.
Discontinue use and inform your doctor about any suspected allergic response.
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Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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