Milk's role in height growth is complex and depends largely on age. While it doesn't magically increase height in adults, its nutritional contribution is significant during childhood and adolescence.
Milk and Height Growth During Childhood and Adolescence
Numerous studies show a positive correlation between milk consumption and increased height in children and adolescents. One study found a positive association between milk consumption at ages 5-12 and 13-17 and adult height, even after considering factors like sex, education, and ethnicity. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15981182/ Another study highlighted the strong association between dairy protein and height growth in girls. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3740511/ Milk is rich in calcium and protein, essential nutrients for bone growth and development. However, it's crucial to remember that achieving full height potential requires good nutrition overall throughout childhood and adolescence, not just milk consumption alone. https://www.verywellhealth.com/does-milk-make-you-taller-8584902
While some studies show positive correlations, others show no significant difference in height between groups with varying milk consumption. This highlights the complexities involved and the influence of genetics and overall diet. https://www.medicinenet.com/can_milk_make_you_grow_taller/article.htm
Milk and Height Growth in Adults
For adults, drinking milk will not increase height. Bone growth plates close after puberty, ending the possibility of further height increase. However, milk's calcium content remains beneficial for maintaining bone health and preventing osteoporosis. [What About Adults? You stop growing after puberty, so drinking milk won't help you grow taller once you're an adult.]
Conclusion
Milk provides essential nutrients vital for bone growth, particularly during childhood and adolescence. While studies show a positive correlation with increased height, genetics and overall nutrition play a substantial role. For adults, milk offers bone health benefits but won't increase height.
