Ashwagandha – Winter cherry or Indian ginseng is an evergreen medicinal herb found in India. Ashwagandha is a storehouse for various medicinal properties. Ashwagandha is known to be an Ayurvedic herb that contains various nutrients and important constituents that can help to strengthen bones and tissues. But what if we told you that ashwagandha also helps to increase height, surprising right? In this blog we will understand the benefits of ashwagandha for height growth.
1. Genetics: Height is largely determined by genetic factors inherited from parents.
2. Nutrition: A balanced diet rich in protein, vitamins (especially vitamin D and calcium), and minerals is crucial for optimal growth.
3. Hormones: Growth hormone, produced by the pituitary gland, plays a significant role in height development.
4. Sleep: Sufficient and quality sleep is essential for growth hormone release and overall growth.
5. Physical activity: Regular exercise and physical activity promote bone and muscle development, contributing to height growth.
6. Health conditions: Certain medical conditions or treatments may affect growth, such as hormonal disorders or chronic illnesses.
7. Environmental factors: Factors like exposure to pollutants, stress, and socioeconomic status can influence growth potential.
Ashwagandha helps in the production of Gamma-Amino Butyric Acid (GABA), which is a calming neurotransmitter in the brain. The human growth hormone is responsible for the growth and development of the body. GABA plays an important role here by blocking specific signals in your brain, resulting in a decrease in the nervous system activities. Research shows that an increase in GABA means an increase in human growth hormone. In addition, increased production of GABA also has a calming effect on the body, as it is a calming neurotransmitter, which helps reduce anxiety and fear. Healthy chemical homeostasis of hormones in the body further increases the HGH hormone production (1).
Ashwagandha also plays a role in bone formation, muscle building, and strength thus enabling growth in height thereby increasing bone density. Bone strength plays a key role in height growth. Ashwagandha also helps in calcium absorption which is essential for bone health (2).
Chronic stress can lead to an increase in cortisol levels. Cortisol can impact the production of growth hormones. Ashwagandha contains anti-stress and adaptogenic properties that help ease stress and thus support height growth by normalizing cortisol levels and aiding growth hormone secretion.
Several studies have shown ashwagandha helps to lower the cortisol levels in the body and improve levels of growth hormone (3).
The daily recommended dosage of ashwagandha is 500mg. You can consume ashwagandha capsules or tablets once or twice a day. You can consume ashwagandha post any meal for better absorption.
While generally considered safe for most people, ashwagandha may cause side effects in some individuals. These can include gastrointestinal upset, such as nausea, diarrhea, or stomach discomfort. Additionally, some people may experience allergic reactions, including itching or rash. High doses of ashwagandha may lead to drowsiness, sedation, or headaches in some individuals.
People with autoimmune diseases, thyroid disorders, or diabetes should use caution when taking ashwagandha, as it may affect hormone levels or blood sugar. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare professional before using ashwagandha, as its safety during pregnancy and lactation hasn't been well studied.
Ashwagandha, an herb prominent in Ayurvedic medicine, is believed to aid in height growth by impacting hormone levels, stress reduction, and bone health. Though further research is required to substantiate these claims, integrating Ashwagandha alongside a balanced diet, exercise, and sufficient sleep can offer a comprehensive approach to support height development. It's imperative to seek guidance from a healthcare provider before incorporating it and consider various factors affecting height growth for informed decision-making regarding health
FAQs
1. Can a 17 year old take ashwagandha?
While ashwagandha is generally considered safe for adults, it's advisable for a 17-year-old to consult with a healthcare professional before taking it, especially considering individual health status and developmental stage.
2. What is best for height growth?
The best approach for height growth includes a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients, regular exercise to support bone health and muscle development, adequate sleep, and maintaining overall good health.
3. What are 5 signs that you have stopped growing in height?
• Consistent height measurements: If your height remains unchanged for an extended period, it may indicate that you've stopped growing.
• Puberty completion: Growth typically ceases once puberty concludes.
• Growth plate closure: X-rays can confirm if growth plates have closed.
• Family history: Similar growth patterns to family members may suggest growth has halted.
• Age: Generally, growth stops by late adolescence or early adulthood.
Health and Nutrition
Shilpa is an expert on food science. She enjoys writing blogs that give complete information about nutrition. She is also a foodie and loves to talk about different types of food. her extensive kno... Read More
