First, let's talk a little about how we grow taller. When we are infants, much of our bones are made up of a flexible substance called cartilage. As we grow older, much of this cartilage fuses into solid bone, which is why we have more bones when we're infants than we do as adults. When we hit puberty, growth plates at the ends of our longer bones lengthen gradually, which is part of why we have such abrupt growth spurts.



However, if you are in your younger years and wish to enhance your growth, a good diet and exercise can be very beneficial. Eating food rich in protein, calcium, calories, and amino acids is crucial for giving your body the energy and nutrients it needs to grow, function, and replenish itself. By exercising and increasing your muscle mass, you become more slender. Your bones also become stronger as they support your additional weight. Stretching can help your tendons and muscles as well. Stretching also helps release height growth hormones, which in turn lengthens your bones.

However, after puberty, your options are significantly lessened. However, by altering your wardrobe and posture, you can help with the illusion of looking taller. For example, wearing pinstripes makes you look taller and adds a slimming effect as well. Try wearing dark colored suits and outfits as well, rather than two toned outfits or outfits with polka dot or plaid patterns. Wearing bulky shoes, such as clogs, boots, and tennis shoes, can make your feet look bigger, thus making you seem taller.

Your posture is also extremely important, both for your appearance and your health. While slouching can actually make you look shorter and results in a plethora of health complications, sitting up straight with your shoulders back and your head up can not only make you look taller, but it prevents backaches, neck aches, and even carpal tunnel syndrome.