Human growth refers to the increase in size and weight of the body from birth to adulthood. Human growth is a continuous process that starts at conception and continues throughout life.

However, there are certain periods in life where growth is more rapid than others. In this article, we will explore how long human growth continues and the factors that influence growth.

Factors that Influence Human Growth

Human growth is influenced by a variety of factors including genetics, nutrition, environmental factors, and hormones.

Genetics

Genetics plays a major role in determining how tall a person will grow. Height is a complex trait that is determined by multiple genes. However, genetics is not the only factor that determines height.

Environmental factors such as nutrition and health also play a role.

Nutrition

Nutrition is an important factor in human growth. Adequate nutrition is essential for growth and development, especially during childhood and adolescence. Malnutrition can lead to stunted growth and other health problems.

Environmental Factors

Environmental factors such as exposure to certain toxins and pollutants can also affect human growth. Studies have shown that exposure to lead, mercury, and other environmental toxins can lead to stunted growth and other health problems.

Hormones

Hormones such as growth hormone and thyroid hormone play a critical role in human growth. Growth hormone is produced by the pituitary gland and stimulates growth and development.

Thyroid hormone is produced by the thyroid gland and helps regulate growth and metabolism.

Phases of Human Growth

Human growth can be divided into several phases, each with its own unique characteristics.

Infancy

Infancy is the period from birth to 2 years of age. During this period, growth is very rapid. Infants typically double their birth weight within the first 5 months and triple their birth weight by the end of their first year.

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Infants also grow in height, with the average height increase being around 10 inches in the first year.

Childhood

Childhood is the period from 2 to 12 years of age. During this period, growth continues at a slower rate than in infancy, but it is still significant. Children typically gain around 4 to 7 pounds per year and grow around 2 to 3 inches in height per year.

Adolescence

Adolescence is the period from 12 to 18 years of age. During this period, growth is very rapid, especially during the early years of adolescence. Adolescents typically gain around 20 to 30 pounds and grow around 8 inches in height during this period.

Adulthood

Adulthood is the period from 18 years of age and beyond. During this period, growth is very slow and eventually comes to a stop. However, there are certain parts of the body that continue to grow throughout adulthood, such as the nose and ears.

When Does Human Growth Stop?

Human growth does not stop at a specific age, but it does slow down and eventually comes to a stop.

Height

Height growth typically stops in males around the age of 21 and in females around the age of 18. However, there are certain factors that can influence height growth, such as genetics and nutrition.

Bone Lengthening

Bone lengthening, which is responsible for increasing height, comes to a stop around the age of 25. This is because the growth plates in the bones fuse, which stops further bone lengthening.

Other Body Parts

Other body parts, such as the nose and ears, continue to grow throughout adulthood. This is because these body parts are made up of cartilage, which continues to grow and change throughout life.

Conclusion

Human growth is a complex process that continues throughout life. Genetics, nutrition, environmental factors, and hormones all play a role in human growth.

Growth is most rapid during infancy and adolescence, and eventually slows down and stops in adulthood. However, certain body parts continue to grow and change throughout life.