Health and Me

Aarushi Bhadury

Is Your Height Determined By Genetics Or Can You Grow Taller With The Right Lifestyle Changes?

Is Height Genetic?

Height is a sensitive topic for many people. While some people do not care about how tall or short they are, for others it is a concerning subject. Growing up we were taught to eat all our vegetables, play sports and enjoy a healthy, active lifestyle if we wish to grow taller. However, there are many kids who grew up playing sports and enjoying healthy foods, who grew up to be just average or shorter than average. So, what exactly determines our height?

According to MedlinePlus, scientists estimate that approximately 80% of a person's height is determined by the variations in their inherited DNA. However, the specific genes involved and how these genetic differences affect height are still not fully understood. While some rare genetic changes can have a large impact on height, for most people, height is influenced by a combination of many genetic variants, each with a smaller effect.

For most of us, our height is a mix of many tiny changes in our DNA, each making us just a little bit taller or shorter, plus things around us like the food we eat. Scientists have found over 700 of these tiny DNA changes, and they think there are many more to discover. Some of these changes affect the soft stuff in our bones that helps them grow longer when we're kids. But for many other height-related DNA parts, we still don't know what they do.

<h2>What Effect Genes Have On Your Height?</h2>

Besides those big DNA changes that cause rare problems with height, scientists have found hundreds of other DNA parts linked to unusual conditions that really affect how tall someone gets. These include DNA parts with names like FBN1, GH1, EVC, and GPC3, which are connected to conditions that can make people very short or very tall. 

By looking at how these big DNA changes mess with height, scientists hope to understand better how all the different DNA parts work together to make us the height we are normally. 

Some DNA parts, like ACAN, have rare changes that cause serious growth problems, but also other changes that just make people a little taller or shorter without causing any health issues. Finding all the DNA parts that affect height, whether a lot or a little, is something scientists are working hard on.

<h2>Do Enviromental Factors Affect Height Changes?</h2>

Things around us also play a role in how tall we end up. This includes what our moms ate when they were pregnant with us, if they smoked, and if they were around anything harmful. A kid who eats good food, stays healthy, and is active will probably be taller as an adult than a kid who doesn't eat well, gets sick a lot, or doesn't get good healthcare. Even things like how much money your family has, how much education they have, and what kind of jobs they work can affect height. 

Sometimes, people from certain parts of the world are, on average, taller or shorter, but when families move to a place with better food and healthcare, their kids can end up being much taller. This suggests that some of the height differences we see between groups of people aren't really about their code, but about these other things.

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Height is a sensitive topic for many people. While some people do not care about how tall or short they are, for others it is a concerning subject. Growing up we were taught to eat all our vegetables, play sports and enjoy a healthy, active lifestyle if we wish to grow taller. However, there are many kids who grew up playing sports and enjoying healthy foods, who grew up to be just average or shorter than average. So, what exactly determines our height?According to MedlinePlus, scientists estimate that approximately 80% of a person's height is determined by the variations in their inherited DNA. However, the specific genes involved and how these genetic differences affect height are still not fully understood. While some rare genetic changes can have a large impact on height, for most people, height is influenced by a combination of many genetic variants, each with a smaller effect.For most of us, our height is a mix of many tiny changes in our DNA, each making us just a little bit taller or shorter, plus things around us like the food we eat. Scientists have found over 700 of these tiny DNA changes, and they think there are many more to discover. Some of these changes affect the soft stuff in our bones that helps them grow longer when we're kids. But for many other height-related DNA parts, we still don't know what they do.What Effect Genes Have On Your Height?Besides those big DNA changes that cause rare problems with height, scientists have found hundreds of other DNA parts linked to unusual conditions that really affect how tall someone gets. These include DNA parts with names like FBN1, GH1, EVC, and GPC3, which are connected to conditions that can make people very short or very tall. By looking at how these big DNA changes mess with height, scientists hope to understand better how all the different DNA parts work together to make us the height we are normally. Some DNA parts, like ACAN, have rare changes that cause serious growth problems, but also other changes that just make people a little taller or shorter without causing any health issues. Finding all the DNA parts that affect height, whether a lot or a little, is something scientists are working hard on.Do Enviromental Factors Affect Height Changes?Things around us also play a role in how tall we end up. This includes what our moms ate when they were pregnant with us, if they smoked, and if they were around anything harmful. A kid who eats good food, stays healthy, and is active will probably be taller as an adult than a kid who doesn't eat well, gets sick a lot, or doesn't get good healthcare. Even things like how much money your family has, how much education they have, and what kind of jobs they work can affect height. Sometimes, people from certain parts of the world are, on average, taller or shorter, but when families move to a place with better food and healthcare, their kids can end up being much taller. This suggests that some of the height differences we see between groups of people aren't really about their code, but about these other things.

is height genetic? could you have grown taller than you currently are with changes?

Fitness

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Accelerated Biological Aging Could Make You At Risk For Dementia: Study

accelerated biological aging could make you at risk for dementia: study

<span>Dementia</span> is one of the most common cognitive diseases people are affected by. Dementia is an umbrella term used to define various cognitive disabilities that affect a person’s memory, thinking as well and behavioral capabilities. About 55 million people live with dementia worldwide, many of whom do not have enough resources to get the proper treatment. It is a disease with no cure; however, you can control its symptoms. The cause of this disease is still unknown, but there are many potential links to the disease. 

A new study suggests that the bacteria living in our mouths and guts, collectively known as the microbiome, could play a role in Parkinson's disease, particularly in the worsening of memory problems. Researchers reported their findings on June 9th in the journal <span>Gut Microbes</span>.

<h2>Gut-Mouth Connection in Cognitive Decline </h2>

The study found a specific link between changes in these bacteria and cognitive decline in Parkinson's patients. Notably, the movement of harmful bacteria from the mouth to the gut was associated with Parkinson's patients experiencing a shift from mild memory issues to full-blown dementia. 

While researchers aren't yet sure if these bacteria directly cause the cognitive decline or if changes in the body due to Parkinson's allow them to thrive, they believe these microbes might be actively worsening symptoms. 

Parkinson's disease is mainly known for causing issues with movement, like shaking, stiff muscles, and trouble with balance. However, as the disease gets worse, people often start to have memory problems. 

Bacteria that naturally live in our mouths and guts are increasingly being linked to diseases that affect the brain and nerves. When the way our gut and brain talk to each other – what scientists call the "gut-brain axis" – gets messed up, it can cause inflammation and immune responses that might hurt brain cells. For example, a common type of bacteria found in gum disease has even been pointed to as a possible factor in Alzheimer's disease. 

<h2><span rel="noindex">Bacterial Differences</span> and Toxins </h2>

For the study, researchers analyzed mouth and gut bacteria from 114 individuals, including Parkinson's patients with mild cognitive impairment and those with dementia. They found clear differences in the types and functions of bacteria between these groups. 

Patients with more severe cognitive impairment had a greater presence of harmful bacteria in their gut, many of which appeared to have migrated from the mouth. These bacteria were found to produce toxins that can damage gut tissue, promote inflammation, and potentially impact the brain. 

<h2><span rel="noindex">New Treatments and Lifestyle Changes</span> </h2>

These findings suggest that the toxins produced by these bacteria could serve as "biological markers" to identify Parkinson's patients at higher risk of developing dementia. In the future, these toxins might even become targets for new treatments aimed at protecting the brain by altering the gut environment. 

The research also highlights the importance of healthy lifestyle behaviors for people with Parkinson's, such as maintaining a good diet and practicing excellent oral hygiene. As Parkinson's progresses, patients may become more reliant on caregivers, and routine practices like oral care and proper nutrition might be neglected. 

Promoting a healthy microbiome through consistent oral care, a balanced diet, and potentially even targeted probiotic interventions could help improve disease management in Parkinson's. Future research will explore how these bacteria and toxins affect brain function and whether lifestyle changes can help slow or prevent dementia in these patients. 

Memory Issues In Dementia

dementia

gut microbes

bacterial differences

new treatments and lifestyle changes

Dementia & Parkinson’s diseases

Dementia is one of the most common cognitive diseases people are affected by. Dementia is an umbrella term used to define various cognitive disabilities that affect a person’s memory, thinking as well and behavioral capabilities. About 55 million people live with dementia worldwide, many of whom do not have enough resources to get the proper treatment. It is a disease with no cure; however, you can control its symptoms. The cause of this disease is still unknown, but there are many potential links to the disease. A new study suggests that the bacteria living in our mouths and guts, collectively known as the microbiome, could play a role in Parkinson's disease, particularly in the worsening of memory problems. Researchers reported their findings on June 9th in the journal Gut Microbes. Gut-Mouth Connection in Cognitive Decline The study found a specific link between changes in these bacteria and cognitive decline in Parkinson's patients. Notably, the movement of harmful bacteria from the mouth to the gut was associated with Parkinson's patients experiencing a shift from mild memory issues to full-blown dementia. While researchers aren't yet sure if these bacteria directly cause the cognitive decline or if changes in the body due to Parkinson's allow them to thrive, they believe these microbes might be actively worsening symptoms. Parkinson's disease is mainly known for causing issues with movement, like shaking, stiff muscles, and trouble with balance. However, as the disease gets worse, people often start to have memory problems. Bacteria that naturally live in our mouths and guts are increasingly being linked to diseases that affect the brain and nerves. When the way our gut and brain talk to each other – what scientists call the "gut-brain axis" – gets messed up, it can cause inflammation and immune responses that might hurt brain cells. For example, a common type of bacteria found in gum disease has even been pointed to as a possible factor in Alzheimer's disease. Bacterial Differences and Toxins For the study, researchers analyzed mouth and gut bacteria from 114 individuals, including Parkinson's patients with mild cognitive impairment and those with dementia. They found clear differences in the types and functions of bacteria between these groups. Patients with more severe cognitive impairment had a greater presence of harmful bacteria in their gut, many of which appeared to have migrated from the mouth. These bacteria were found to produce toxins that can damage gut tissue, promote inflammation, and potentially impact the brain. New Treatments and Lifestyle Changes These findings suggest that the toxins produced by these bacteria could serve as "biological markers" to identify Parkinson's patients at higher risk of developing dementia. In the future, these toxins might even become targets for new treatments aimed at protecting the brain by altering the gut environment. The research also highlights the importance of healthy lifestyle behaviors for people with Parkinson's, such as maintaining a good diet and practicing excellent oral hygiene. As Parkinson's progresses, patients may become more reliant on caregivers, and routine practices like oral care and proper nutrition might be neglected. Promoting a healthy microbiome through consistent oral care, a balanced diet, and potentially even targeted probiotic interventions could help improve disease management in Parkinson's. Future research will explore how these bacteria and toxins affect brain function and whether lifestyle changes can help slow or prevent dementia in these patients. 

memory issues in dementia & parkinson’s patients linked to natural mouth & gut bacteria

Air India Crash May Have Triggered Flight Anxiety In Millions, Expert Shares How To Overcome Aerophobia

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Parents of teens are always complaining about the amount of sleep their kids get. No matter how many hours teens sleep, they always seem tired. However, that is not a coincidence. According to <span>Johns Hopkins Medicine</span>, teens experience a natural shift in circadian rhythm, making it difficult to fall asleep at their usual time. They also need nine or more hours of sleep every day. That is because they are at a crucial stage of cognitive development, a stage of cognitive maturation, which is supported by appropriate amounts of sleep. 

So, what happens when they do not sleep as much? Does it hinder their cognitive development? 

A new study reveals that sleep deprivation in teenagers can lead to significant brain changes, potentially increasing impulsive and aggressive behaviors. Published on June 13th in the journal Brain and Behavior, the findings highlight the critical role sleep plays in adolescent brain development and mental well-being. 

<h2>Default Mode Network and Behavior </h2>

This study looked at how sleep affects a special part of the brain called the "default mode network" (DMN). Think of the DMN as your brain's "idle mode" or "daydreaming mode." It's active when you're just relaxing, not trying to focus on something specific, maybe thinking about yourself or letting your mind wander. The researchers found that when teens didn't get enough sleep, the different parts of this daydreaming network became less connected. 

These same teens also tended to have more behavior problems. This means they might be more aggressive, have trouble paying attention, or be very hyper. It's like a messy room – when the DMN isn't well-connected, things can get a bit chaotic, leading to difficult behaviors. As one of the main researchers said, how long and how well teens sleep is directly linked to these brain connections, which then predict behavior problems. 

The default mode network (DMN) is really important for things like thinking about yourself, understanding your own feelings, and being creative. When this network is working well, people can connect ideas better and even understand what others are thinking.

Teenage years are a super important time for the brain to grow and develop. It's like building the foundation of a house – if you don't build it right, the rest of the house might have problems. And sleep is absolutely critical for this brain development. It helps all those brain connections form properly and get stronger. The sad truth is, many teenagers simply aren't getting the good quality sleep they need. 

<h2>Disparities in Sleep and Behavior </h2>

The study also noticed that some groups of teenagers were more likely to get less sleep and have more behavioral problems. This included boys, older teenagers, and kids from certain racial minority groups. This finding suggests that there might be different factors at play that make it harder for these particular groups of teens to get enough sleep, and it highlights a need for more support for them. 

It really emphasizes that we need to make sure teenagers get enough good sleep. It's not just about feeling rested; it's about helping their brains develop properly and keeping them mentally healthy. 

teen health

johns hopkins medicine

teen cognitive development

lack of sleep and teens

sleeplessness can alter teen brains

Default Mode Network and Behavior for teens

Parents of teens are always complaining about the amount of sleep their kids get. No matter how many hours teens sleep, they always seem tired. However, that is not a coincidence. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, teens experience a natural shift in circadian rhythm, making it difficult to fall asleep at their usual time. They also need nine or more hours of sleep every day. That is because they are at a crucial stage of cognitive development, a stage of cognitive maturation, which is supported by appropriate amounts of sleep. So, what happens when they do not sleep as much? Does it hinder their cognitive development? A new study reveals that sleep deprivation in teenagers can lead to significant brain changes, potentially increasing impulsive and aggressive behaviors. Published on June 13th in the journal Brain and Behavior, the findings highlight the critical role sleep plays in adolescent brain development and mental well-being. Default Mode Network and Behavior This study looked at how sleep affects a special part of the brain called the "default mode network" (DMN). Think of the DMN as your brain's "idle mode" or "daydreaming mode." It's active when you're just relaxing, not trying to focus on something specific, maybe thinking about yourself or letting your mind wander. The researchers found that when teens didn't get enough sleep, the different parts of this daydreaming network became less connected. These same teens also tended to have more behavior problems. This means they might be more aggressive, have trouble paying attention, or be very hyper. It's like a messy room – when the DMN isn't well-connected, things can get a bit chaotic, leading to difficult behaviors. As one of the main researchers said, how long and how well teens sleep is directly linked to these brain connections, which then predict behavior problems. Importance of Adolescent Sleep The default mode network (DMN) is really important for things like thinking about yourself, understanding your own feelings, and being creative. When this network is working well, people can connect ideas better and even understand what others are thinking.Teenage years are a super important time for the brain to grow and develop. It's like building the foundation of a house – if you don't build it right, the rest of the house might have problems. And sleep is absolutely critical for this brain development. It helps all those brain connections form properly and get stronger. The sad truth is, many teenagers simply aren't getting the good quality sleep they need. Disparities in Sleep and Behavior The study also noticed that some groups of teenagers were more likely to get less sleep and have more behavioral problems. This included boys, older teenagers, and kids from certain racial minority groups. This finding suggests that there might be different factors at play that make it harder for these particular groups of teens to get enough sleep, and it highlights a need for more support for them. It really emphasizes that we need to make sure teenagers get enough good sleep. It's not just about feeling rested; it's about helping their brains develop properly and keeping them mentally healthy. 

lack of sleep can alter a teen's brain and also cause behavioral issues: study

Ishita Roy

World Blood Donor Day 2025: Thinking of Donating Blood? A Doctor Answers All Your Doubts

What all must you know before you donate blood?

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On <span>World Blood Donor Day</span>, observed every year on June 14, the spotlight turns to the vital act of <span>blood donation</span>—an effort that saves millions of lives each year. Yet, many potential donors still hold back due to confusion or misinformation. To help clear the air, we spoke to Dr. Sangeeta Pathak, Director and Head of Transfusion Medicine at Max Super Speciality Hospital, Saket, about the do’s and don’ts of blood donation. Here’s what we learned.

<strong>ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/who-can-donate-blood-to-whom-article-151105034" data-type="tilCustomLink">Who Can Donate Blood To Whom?</a></strong>

<h4>Can Women Donate Blood During Their Period?</h4>

This is one of the most common concerns, especially among first-time female donors. According to Dr. Pathak, as per the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, women are advised not to donate during their menstruation, particularly during the 4-5 days of active bleeding. However, they are completely eligible to donate at any other time of the month if they are in good health.

<h4>What If You’re Recovering from Illness or Taking Medication?</h4>

Health is key when it comes to blood donation. “A person should be completely healthy and free from fever or illness at the time of donation,” says Dr. Pathak. Moreover, certain medications can lead to deferral, and there is a comprehensive list maintained under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act. So if you’re on a prescribed course, it’s best to consult a doctor or the blood bank before donating.

<h4>Alcohol, Smoking and Blood Donation—What’s the Deal?</h4>

While an occasional drinker may not be entirely disqualified, heavy alcohol consumption is a red flag. “Anyone who is under the influence or shows signs of intoxication should not be donating blood,” Dr. Pathak warns. Ideally, toxic substances like alcohol or nicotine should be avoided for several hours before donation, and if there is an emergency and the only available donor has consumed alcohol recently, it's safest to look for another eligible person.

<h4>Basic Eligibility: Age, Weight, and Health</h4>

<ul><li>To donate blood in India, you must be:</li><li>18 to 65 years old (first-time donors should not be older than 60)</li><li>Weigh at least 45 kg (for 350 ml of whole blood)</li><li>Hemoglobin levels of at least 12.5 gm/dl</li></ul>

For apheresis (platelet or plasma donation), the minimum weight is 50 kg, and the age range is 18 to 60 years. Chronic illnesses and poor general health are automatic grounds for deferral.

<h4>Tattoos and Piercings: Are You Temporarily Ineligible?</h4>

Yes. If you’ve recently had a tattoo or body piercing, you’ll need to wait 12 months before you can donate blood. This is a precautionary step to ensure there’s no risk of transmitting infections.

<strong>TO KNOW MORE, READ: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/how-long-after-a-tattoo-or-piercing-can-i-donate-blood-article-151210770" data-type="tilCustomLink">How Long After a Tattoo or Piercing Can I Donate Blood?</a></strong>

<h4>What to Eat (or Avoid) Before and After Donation</h4>

A proper meal before donating is important, but fasting is not advised. “The donor should not be on an empty stomach, and their last meal should be at least four hours before donation,” explains Dr. Pathak. Avoid fatty foods before donating as they can interfere with blood testing. After donation, staying hydrated and consuming a light snack helps restore energy levels quickly.

Women, especially, often have concerns about low hemoglobin levels. If your levels are below 12.5 gm/dl, you won’t be allowed to donate—for your own safety. It’s best to get your iron levels checked regularly if you plan to be a repeat donor.

<strong>YOU MAY WANT TO READ: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/can-you-have-anemia-by-donating-blood-article-151110665" data-type="tilCustomLink">Can You Have Anemia By Donating Blood?</a></strong>

Blood donation is a safe, simple, and generous act that can make a life-or-death difference. On this World Blood Donor Day, let’s pledge to stay informed and encourage more people to donate responsibly. As Dr. Pathak says, “With the right awareness and care, we can all contribute to building a healthier, more compassionate society.”

blood donation rules

health and wellness

blood donation

world blood donor day

can you donate blood on period

can you donate blood on medications

can you donate blood after getting a tattoo

On World Blood Donor Day, observed every year on June 14, the spotlight turns to the vital act of blood donation—an effort that saves millions of lives each year. Yet, many potential donors still hold back due to confusion or misinformation. To help clear the air, we spoke to Dr. Sangeeta Pathak, Director and Head of Transfusion Medicine at Max Super Speciality Hospital, Saket, about the do’s and don’ts of blood donation. Here’s what we learned.ALSO READ: Who Can Donate Blood To Whom?Can Women Donate Blood During Their Period?This is one of the most common concerns, especially among first-time female donors. According to Dr. Pathak, as per the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, women are advised not to donate during their menstruation, particularly during the 4-5 days of active bleeding. However, they are completely eligible to donate at any other time of the month if they are in good health.What If You’re Recovering from Illness or Taking Medication?Health is key when it comes to blood donation. “A person should be completely healthy and free from fever or illness at the time of donation,” says Dr. Pathak. Moreover, certain medications can lead to deferral, and there is a comprehensive list maintained under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act. So if you’re on a prescribed course, it’s best to consult a doctor or the blood bank before donating.Alcohol, Smoking and Blood Donation—What’s the Deal?While an occasional drinker may not be entirely disqualified, heavy alcohol consumption is a red flag. “Anyone who is under the influence or shows signs of intoxication should not be donating blood,” Dr. Pathak warns. Ideally, toxic substances like alcohol or nicotine should be avoided for several hours before donation, and if there is an emergency and the only available donor has consumed alcohol recently, it's safest to look for another eligible person.Basic Eligibility: Age, Weight, and HealthTo donate blood in India, you must be:18 to 65 years old (first-time donors should not be older than 60)Weigh at least 45 kg (for 350 ml of whole blood)Hemoglobin levels of at least 12.5 gm/dlFor apheresis (platelet or plasma donation), the minimum weight is 50 kg, and the age range is 18 to 60 years. Chronic illnesses and poor general health are automatic grounds for deferral.Tattoos and Piercings: Are You Temporarily Ineligible?Yes. If you’ve recently had a tattoo or body piercing, you’ll need to wait 12 months before you can donate blood. This is a precautionary step to ensure there’s no risk of transmitting infections.TO KNOW MORE, READ: How Long After a Tattoo or Piercing Can I Donate Blood?What to Eat (or Avoid) Before and After DonationA proper meal before donating is important, but fasting is not advised. “The donor should not be on an empty stomach, and their last meal should be at least four hours before donation,” explains Dr. Pathak. Avoid fatty foods before donating as they can interfere with blood testing. After donation, staying hydrated and consuming a light snack helps restore energy levels quickly.A Note on Low HemoglobinWomen, especially, often have concerns about low hemoglobin levels. If your levels are below 12.5 gm/dl, you won’t be allowed to donate—for your own safety. It’s best to get your iron levels checked regularly if you plan to be a repeat donor.YOU MAY WANT TO READ: Can You Have Anemia By Donating Blood?Blood donation is a safe, simple, and generous act that can make a life-or-death difference. On this World Blood Donor Day, let’s pledge to stay informed and encourage more people to donate responsibly. As Dr. Pathak says, “With the right awareness and care, we can all contribute to building a healthier, more compassionate society.”

world blood donor day 2025: thinking of donating blood? a doctor answers all your doubts

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Is Your Height Determined By Genetics Or Can You Grow Taller With The Right Lifestyle Changes?

Quick Stories

Memory Issues In Dementia & Parkinson’s Patients Linked To Natural Mouth & Gut Bacteria

Lack Of Sleep Can Alter A Teen's Brain And Also Cause Behavioral Issues: Study

World Blood Donor Day 2025: Thinking of Donating Blood? A Doctor Answers All Your Doubts

Health Conditions A-Z

Does Hair Oiling Help Your Scalp? Ayurvedic Oils For Healthy Hair

Memory Issues In Dementia & Parkinson’s Patients Linked To Natural Mouth & Gut Bacteria

Lack Of Sleep Can Alter A Teen's Brain And Also Cause Behavioral Issues: Study