Tuesday, November 24, 2020

Are genes the only factor in height?

 

Genetics is the main factor in determining height, however, there are several other influences.  It can be influenced by hormones, diet, activity, and if there is a medical condition present can affect it.   A healthy diet is at the base of these factors, without it hormones may not function properly.  Hormones can vary in males and females.  Males on an average show to be taller than females and also have a longer period of physical growth.  Exercise or activity can be an important factor also in height, it strengthens the bones, muscles, etc. ensuring healthy physical development.   The puberty section of childhood is extra important, as it usually contains what is known as the "growth spurt".  This when someone can taller in what seems like a very short amount of time.  Sleep is very important because during sleep the body releases hormones for growth and development.  So while genetics makes up for 80% of height, but the rest is up to environmental factors.  


Links:

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/327514#what-factors-affect-height 

https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/understanding/traits/height/  

2 comments:

  1. This topic has always been on my mind. I am 5’2 and my parents are 5’2 and 6’4. I definitely got my height from my mom. It’s crazy to think about, but I do understand that genetics and 80% of our height. Great topic!

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  2. I had no clue that one's diet could alter the height of the person. I always thought it was basically 100% genetics that determined that, excluding rare diseases. I am the tallest one in my family at 5'11, while everyone else is a few inches shorter.

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