My son is 16 and about 5 feet, 7 inches tall. He keeps asking if there's anything he can do to become taller.
- Circe

Taking care of himself — eating well, exercising regularly, and getting plenty of rest — is the best way to help his body reach its natural potential. But assuming his diet is normal and he has no medical problems, there's no magic pill or formula or nutritional supplement for increasing height. In fact, his genes are the major determinant of how tall he'll be.

Most boys finish growing by about age 16. But each person is a little different, so everyone starts and goes through puberty on his or her body's own schedule. Those who start a little later than their friends will usually continue to grow a little later, too.

If you're concerned about your son's growth, talk with his doctor.

Reviewed by: Steven Dowshen, MD
Date reviewed: February 2012