Can healthy weight management impact my height and growth?

Question

Hi doctor,

I am an 18-year-old male with a height of five feet four inches, and weigh 129 pounds. I am worried that I will stunt my growth by cutting down weight with diet and exercise.

I used to be 180 pounds, but I lost a lot of weight and want to lose the last 10 pounds. Assuming I am eating very healthy and taking excess vitamins such as calcium and vitamins A, B, and C, will I stunt my growth, or have I stunted my growth with dieting?

This is really bothering me since I am fairly short as it is. I plan to eat a fairly large amount of calories after this summer since I am bulking at 2300 calories so, will that makeup for any damage I may have done?

Please help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I thoroughly read your query and understand your concern.

You are at a very young age, and I will suggest you exercise more to reduce weight. Dieting under nutritionist observation is suggested. Take enough fruits also during dieting.

Your height will not be affected, and you will grow more by maintaining adequate calorie intake. After you bring your BMI (body-mass index) under 25, follow a regular diet with active exercise.

I hope this will help you.

Take care.