Lack of Sleep May Stunt Children’s Height, Here’s the Explanation from an IPB University FKGiz Lecturer

The habit of staying up too late or pulling all nighters can actuall affect a child’s height growth. This was confirmed by dr Ditia Gilang Shah Putra Rahim, SpA, MARS, a lecturer at IPB University’s Faculty of Medicine and Nutrition (FKGiz).

“That’s correct. The habit of staying up too late can affect a child’s height. Children who don’t get enough sleep are at risk of being shorter. This is related to growth hormone production, which peaks while the child is sleeping,” he said.

Growth Hormone Peaks During Sleep
He explained that growth hormone is produced by the pituitary gland in the brain and reaches its peak during the deep slow-wave sleep (SWS) phase, which is part of the non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep phase. During this phase, growth hormone is released into the bloodstream and travels to tissues where it helps repair tissues, build muscle, and strengthen bones.

According to dr Gilang, puberty is indeed a period marked by a surge in height growth due to increased levels of sex hormones and growth hormones. However, optimal growth must actually be prepared for even before puberty through a healthy lifestyle.

Balanced Nutrition Is More Important Than Supplements
In addition to getting enough sleep, he emphasized the importance of a balanced nutritional intake. dr Gilang corrected the misconception that drinking milk alone is enough to help children grow taller.

“So, drinking milk alone isn’t enough. There needs to be a balanced combination of various macro and micronutrients,” he said.

He explained that children need complex carbohydrates, animal protein, fats, vitamin D, vitamin K, calcium, zinc, magnesium, and phosphorus to support optimal bone growth. As for supplements, they serve only as a support and should be given as needed, for example, to children with vitamin deficiencies or nutrient absorption disorders.

dr Gilang advised parents to foster healthy lifestyle habits by maintaining a balanced, nutritious diet, establishing a consistent sleep schedule, and encouraging children to engage in regular physical activity. He also reminded parents to limit screen time at least one hour before bedtime.

“The recommended sleep duration varies by age, ranging from 9–12 hours for school-age children to 8–10 hours for adolescents,” he said. (Fj) (IAAS/LAN)

Sleep Recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics

Recommended Sleep Duration (Per 24 Hours)