Ways to Grow Tall

Genes determine your height. Sadly, not everyone reaches their ideal by DNA alone. Numerous studies from the American Psychological Association, University of Pennsylvania and University of Michigan have linked height to social and financial success. Fortunately, several methods exist to grow taller. However, they are not always effective or easy. Consider these possibilities, but determine whether they are worth "the stretch."

Childhood and Adolescent Methods

If you are still growing (e.g. under 18), eat well and stay healthy. A balanced diet, rich in vitamins and minerals, will help you grow to your fullest potential. Do not smoke or use drugs. Cigarettes and narcotics stunt your growth.

Stretching Exercises

Practice stretching exercises. Stretching helps decompress the cartilage between bones. As a result, the cartilage may absorb more nutrients and thicken. During the thickening process, the cartilage will extend the overall length of your vertebrae and thigh bones. Further, exercise will tone, strengthen and develop the muscles that support the spine. Both of these processes may help you grow up to three inches taller. Stretching positions include a standard forward bend, head to knee, and "downward facing dog" pose. Consult a yoga instructor on how best to perform these exercises.

Supplements

Several compounds with a combination of amino acids and multivitamins may help you grow taller. Human growth hormone also can be a great growth stimulant, especially in children with naturally low HGH levels. At the same time, beware. Many supplement vendors make bold claims about their products that are dubious at best. Besides wasting money, use (and especially overuse) of supplements may carry dangerous side effects. In particular, HGH has been known to cause health problems.

Limb Lengthening

Lengthen your limbs by surgery. Though not available in the United States, procedures exist to extend limbs by internal and external rods. The results are very slow and expensive. Further, complications such as infection may result. On the plus side, dramatic height gains are possible, especially longer legs.

Shoes

Rather than spending large amounts of time and money on growing taller, "elevator" shoes can increase your height by 2 or 3 inches instantly. For instance, the Richlee Shoe Company sells a pair with a hidden height-increasing mold that helps even the score between tall people and their shorter peers.

"In spirit, I am ten feet tall..."

Be yourself. Most likely, a few extra inches of height will not pay your rent, find you an attractive spouse, or solve countless other problems of everyday life. Happiness comes from within.