Those of us who spent our teenage years watching Wasim & Waqar lead a superfast Pakistani line-up now get even more pleasure as we watch Jasprit Bumrah & friends do the same for India. At 6’2” Bumrah is a big guy and so are fellow Indian fast bowlers like Siraj & Arshdeep. In fact, almost every IPL team now boasts a 6 foot plus Indian fast bowler. Similarly most of our daughters & sons are much taller than us. Seeing 6’5” teenagers on school playgrounds is now increasingly common. So how did India get tall? This Indian Express article says that the answer lies in nutrition:
““Dad: 5’6” Son: 6’2” This is why,” Singh captioned his Instagram post, alluding the main change to their protein intake. “Traditionally, most Indian families at that time didn’t eat dairy and meat at every meal. For example, if they were having paneer, it would maybe be a few pieces in the curry. Maybe they were having eggs every other day, and meat was a part of their weekend specials,” said Singh.
But he believes that these youngsters had animal-based protein at every single meal. “This made all the difference because that extra high-quality protein from these animal-based sources contributed to their bones being better developed, more muscle and also their height,” he added.
Edwina Raj, Head of Services—Clinical Nutrition & Dietetics, Aster CMI Hospital, Bangalore, said that protein plays an important role in influencing a child’s height. Understanding the relationship between nutrition and height development is essential, as various nutrients contribute to the overall growth process, so protein alone doesn’t help. Among other contributing factors, protein is vital and acts as a building block for the development of muscles, bones, and other tissues that are crucial during the growth phases of childhood.
Concurring, Pratiksha Kadam, Chief Dietitian, Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Navi Mumbai said that height is influenced by a mix of genetics, hormones, physical activity, and nutrition—but among these, diet plays a critical supporting role, particularly in the growth years. “Protein provides the body with amino acids, the building blocks needed for the production of growth hormone and other crucial biological processes,” she added.
What should be the ideal diet to support height growth?
Raj said that a well-balanced diet should include adequate protein and other vital nutrients such as vitamins and minerals like calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium to support height growth effectively.
“Foods rich in protein, such as lean meats, fish, dairy, legumes, nuts and seeds should be incorporated into daily meals. It is equally important to ensure that the vitamin D levels are optimized, as it helps absorb calcium, which plays a critical role in bone health and development,” she said…
While genetics will ultimately set the limits of height, optimal nutrition—especially protein—can help children reach their full growth potential.”
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