16 is a significant milestone for most teens. Differences in terms of physical growth are clearer around this age. While teen girls are nearly done growing, teen boys are sometimes just getting started. That is why there is a big gap between their height. So, what is the average height for a 16-year-old teen? Keep scrolling now!
When a teen boy or girl enters puberty, they will spend a growth spurt that might affect their growth. But since different teens reach puberty at various periods, the rate of growth changes. During puberty, girls often gain about 1 to 2 inches (2.54 to 5.08 centimeters) per year. Meanwhile, boys can acquire up to 3 inches (7.62 centimeters) per year.
Teen girls often enter puberty at the age of 8 and 10 years old, and they will spend a huge growth spurt when they are about 10 to 14 years old. For teen boys, the age range is late, which often starts at the age of 9 and 14 years old.
Boys’ height measurement at 16 will lie between 62.5 and 73.6 inches (158.84 and 187.09 centimeters). So, the mean height for this age group of boys is 68.3 inches (173.61 centimeters).
Girls’ height measurement at 16 will lie between 59.2 and 68.8 inches (150.42 and 174.77 centimeters). So, the mean height for this age group of girls is 64 inches (162.57 centimeters).
Although most girls tend to be taller and heavier than boys since they enter puberty earlier than boys, when they turn 16, their height does not rise remarkably. Or if yes, the increase per year is small. In contrast, boys often grow quickly at this age since they enter puberty later than young girls.
You should not only take these average heights into account as it does not say anything about your adolescent’s health. It is a “standard” to tell whether or not your children are shorter than the suggested height. So, if they are truly shorter and want to improve their height, what should you do? Although genetics plays a vital role in contributing to height growth, it also depends on other factors, which are listed below.
One of the most critical things you should do to help your teen get taller at 16 is to make sure they consume a healthy and balanced diet.
A well-balanced one should include all four groups of essential nutrients. Protein is vital for the growth of all tissues, muscles, cartilage, bones, and organs in the body. Healthy fats help deliver nutrients to aid the brain and neurological system function properly. Carbohydrates are known as the body’s main energy source and are involved in the building of cells and tissues. Last but not least, vitamins and minerals play a critical role in the healthy growth and functioning of all body elements.
Diet and lifestyle changes to improve height will only be effective when your body gets enough vitamin D [1]. This vitamin is vital because it helps the body absorb calcium to promote muscle and bone growth. And a lack has been related to stunted growth [2] and even excess weight in teen girls.
Mushrooms, fatty fish, orange juice, beef liver, egg yolk, fortified cereals, milk, and other dairy products are vitamin D rich-foods that you should consume regularly. Also, exposing your skin to the sun is an excellent way to synthesize vitamin D since the ultraviolet-B radiation helps change inactive vitamin D levels to active ones. You only spend 5-10 minutes under direct sunlight if you want to improve your height.
Taking this kind of product is suggested in some cases. If your teens’ growth plates are still growing, using these supplements might help because they are packed with necessary nutrients for promoting height and natural growth rate. But that does not mean that all the products are good, so remember to consult your doctor before using anything.
Cells are the main organs that support the absorption of vitamins and minerals. Drinking plenty of water helps these cells function better and promote their absorption process. Moreover, it reduces toxic substances from the body, which allows the metabolism to work better. And that is vital for physical growth.
Teens at 16 need to drink at least 8 to 10 glasses of water per day. If they engage in any physical activities, they should drink more to stay hydrated.
Exercises, like hanging, skipping, jumping, or stretching will keep you active enough to build up muscles and affect the release of growth hormones. As we all know, these hormones are critical in physical growth since it stimulates cell repair and growth. Also, joining outdoor sports, like swimming, soccer, or basketball helps skeletal tissues, cartilages, and bones grow more effectively.
It is suggested that teens should get at least 60 minutes of physical activity. Encourage them but do not force them, and try to help them find something they really want to do.
Yoga has been known to cure diseases of the human body as well as help gain height. Yes, this full-body practice might strengthen your muscles, realign your body, and improve your posture. Some of the beneficial asanas that you should try include the cobra stretch, the mountain pose, and the triangle pose.
If you are 16, getting between 8 to 10 hours of sleep a night is required. Sleep is vital for any child who wants to improve their height and develop their body appropriately. That is because when you sleep, your body recuperates and grows. Importantly, it helps produce growth hormones naturally, particularly during deep or slow-wave sleep. And for improved sleep quality, avoid using smart devices or having heavy meals before bedtime.
Your back needs to curve naturally in three positions. But when you hunch or slouch frequently, these curves might change to match your new posture. And that could make you appear shorter than you are.
For instance, if you often sit at work, you need to sit correctly. Place your feet flat on the floor, and do not cross your legs. Relax your shoulders and put a pillow to support your lower back. And remember to change your sitting positions or stand up to prevent tension or strain on the body.
Getting addicted to stuff like smoking, alcohol, or drugs might hinder growth and result in other health issues.
If you want to look tall and slim, you must opt for darker shades for your clothes, like dark blue, black, and red. Clothes with vertical stripes also make you appear taller, while horizontal ones serve the opposite. Wearing platform heels and wedges instead of flip-flops allows you to keep a better balance while walking. Avoid wearing loose clothes or voluminous jackets or blazers because they just make you look shorter.
It is commonly seen that teens’ heights increase a lot during their growing years, but by the time they turn 16, their height often increases at a much slower pace. But do not conclude that this is the average height of all 16-year-old teenagers. All you should do is encourage them to follow a healthy lifestyle to grow well. In case you suspect their development rate, you should consult your doctor for advice.
