Growth Patterns from Age 17 to 20: Understanding Potential and Factors Influencing Height

During the transition from adolescence to adulthood, the human body continues to undergo significant changes, including growth spurts. This article explores how much a 17-year-old can grow by the age of 20, highlighting average growth patterns and discussing the various factors that influence these changes.

Average Growth Patterns for Males and Females

The growth potential for 17-year-olds differs between males and females. On average, males continue to grow until they reach around 18 to 20 years old, while females typically complete their growth by around 16 to 18 years old.

Male Growth Statistics

Males in this age group can typically grow about 1 to 3 inches (2.5 to 7.5 cm) from ages 17 to 20. This period marks a slower growth phase compared to the more rapid spurts observed during puberty. Genes, nutrition, and overall health play pivotal roles in determining how much a male can grow during this time.

Female Growth Statistics

Females generally experience less growth during this period, with an average increase of about 0.5 to 2 inches (1.25 to 5 cm). This slower growth rate is due to the earlier completion of their growth spurt, usually around 16 to 18 years of age.

The Possibility of Growing 1.5 Inches

It is indeed possible for a 17-year-old to grow 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) or more before turning 20, especially for males who are still in their growth phase. Individual factors such as genetics, nutrition, and overall health significantly influence growth potential during these years.

Personal Experiences and Nutritional Tips

Personal experiences can be helpful in understanding the extent of growth. For instance, the author of this piece and their brother both experienced noticeable growth in their late teens. Fasting, particularly dry fasting, has been known to stimulate the production of growth hormones, such as Human Growth Hormone (HGH).

Impact of Fasting on Growth Hormones

Fasting, especially dry fasting, has been reported to elevate HGH production. Studies have shown that after three days of dry fasting, HGH levels can reach up to 300 ng/mL, and after one week, levels can soar to over 1000 ng/mL. This significant increase in HGH can contribute to overall growth and development.

Puberty and Height Milestones

The timeline and height milestones of puberty are crucial for understanding individual growth patterns. The average person typically starts puberty around age 11 and finishes around 21, with an average height gain of about 12 to 14 inches (30 to 36 cm) during puberty. The median height gain at the start of puberty is 13 inches (33 cm), meaning half the population will have grown this much by the onset of puberty.

Height and Puberty Timeline

Given that individuals typically grow about 75% of their adult height by the age of 16, a person who is 4 feet 9 inches (114 cm) at the start of puberty would likely be around 5 feet 7 inches (170 cm) by that age. The remaining 25% of growth is expected to occur over the next five years, leading to an average adult height of 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm).

Factors Influencing Stunted Growth and Continued Growth

Several factors can influence whether an individual stops growing or continues to grow even into their early twenties:

Stunted Growth

Individuals who have already grown 13 inches since the start of puberty by the age of 17 are less likely to experience significant growth by 20. This is particularly true for those who do not maintain a healthy lifestyle, with poor dieting, smoking, lack of exercise, and inadequate rest being common contributors to stunted growth.

Continued Growth

Conversely, individuals who have only grown about 10 inches by the age of 16 might still have the potential to grow an additional 3 inches over the next five years, leading to noticeable growth by the age of 17.

Conclusion

While the exact amount of growth from age 17 to 20 varies significantly between individuals, it is possible for a 17-year-old to grow 1.5 inches or more by turning 20. Factors such as genetics, nutrition, and overall health play crucial roles in determining growth potential during this period. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and engaging in activities that promote optimal growth, such as proper nutrition and regular exercise, can significantly impact an individual's final height.