This year's Consumer Rights Gala exposed children's height growth scams. I had to laugh — my mom had already stepped into every single one over thirty years ago.
First up: traditional Chinese medicine beads taped to acupoints on my ears. I don't remember if I grew at all, just that the tape made my skin itchy.
Then came sea horse soup. Oily and complicated in flavor. I drank it every night for a while. No height change, but I rounded out.
The worst was "Sun God" oral liquid — it contained hormonal components that could trigger early development and premature epiphyseal closure, ultimately sabotaging growth potential.
My mom had no idea. She thought she was supplementing nutrition. The mothers of our generation didn't lack love — they just lacked information.
Height is largely determined by genetics. The growth plate (epiphyseal line) is key — once it closes, height stops increasing. What actually helps: adequate sleep, balanced nutrition, and appropriate exercise. What doesn't: expensive supplements and dubious remedies.