I'm 17 and I'm only 5'7". What can I do to become taller?
– Adam*
Taking good care of yourself — eating well, exercising regularly, and getting plenty of rest — is the best way to stay healthy and help your body reach its natural potential. There's no magic pill for increasing height. In fact, your genes are the major determinant of how tall you'll be.
Most teens can expect to grow a total of about 7 to 10 inches during puberty before they reach their full adult height. Each person is a little different, so everyone starts and goes through puberty on their body's own schedule. Your body may still be changing. It can help to share any concerns or questions with your doctor.
Reviewed by: Larissa Hirsch, MD
Date reviewed: June 2009
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