Question
Hello, Doctor! My child is currently 2 years old, and I have heard that it is important to have children sleep at the right time to promote good height growth. So, I would like to ask what time is best for children to sleep in order to promote healthy height growth? I would appreciate your advice. Thank you.
-Lan Anh (1996)
Answer
Hello,
Regarding your question, “What is the best time for a child to sleep to promote optimal height growth?” the doctor’s response is as follows:
It is important to have children go to bed early to optimize growth hormone secretion. Growth hormone is released at midnight, provided the child is in a state of deep sleep. Therefore, it is essential for the child to sleep at least 2 hours before midnight.
Additionally, parents can optimize child’s height growth in the following ways:
Ensure a diet rich in calcium. Without sufficient calcium in the diet, the child will not develop strong and tall bones. Milk is easily digestible and provides energy and calcium.
Encourage daily physical activity. Physical activity helps optimize growth hormone secretion in the body. Exercise stimulates growth only when practiced regularly. Therefore, parents should encourage their children to engage in sports or activities that involve stretching movements, such as swimming, basketball, volleyball, etc., for at least 30 minutes each day.
Thank you for trusting the Vinmec Healthcare System, and I look forward to meeting you in person to provide more detailed advice. Best regards!
-This article was professionally consulted by Huynh Thoai Loan, MD, PhD, Dean of the Pediatrics, Neonatology Department, Vinmec Central Park International General Hospital.
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