Does Pre-Workout Stunt Growth? (Or Can It Make You Taller?)

Are you a fitness fanatic hoping to get greater outcomes from your workouts? If so, you’ve likely come across the popular trend of pre-workout supplements.

These products, which promise more energy, concentration, and endurance, have become quite popular in the fitness industry. However, amidst the buzz and excitement, concerns and myths have emerged regarding their potential impact on growth and development.

One particular claim that often circulates is whether pre-workout supplements can stunt growth. In this comprehensive blog post, we delve into this intriguing topic to separate fact from fiction.

Does pre-workout stunt growth, or is it merely a misconception? We explore if there is scientific evidence, analyze the ingredients commonly found in these supplements, and shed light on the factors influencing growth and development.

Continue reading as we set out on this informative adventure to learn the real story of how pre-workout supplements affect development. Let’s delve into the science and unravel the myths together.

Table of Contents

Does Pre-Workout Stunt Growth?

Well, Does pre-workout stunt your growth?

There is no scientific evidence suggesting that pre-workout supplements stunt growth. However, it’s important to use them responsibly and have knowledge of the ingredients added to your pre-workout supplement.

When we examine the available research, we are startled to find that there isn’t much evidence to support the idea that pre-workout supplements stunt growth. While anecdotal stories and rumors may circulate, it’s important to rely on sound scientific studies to form an informed perspective.

Numerous factors contribute to growth and development, and it’s crucial to consider the overall context. Pre-workout supplements, when used responsibly and in moderation, primarily aim to enhance athletic performance during workouts.

They frequently include components that have been thoroughly researched for their effects on energy, attention, and muscular regeneration, such as caffeine, creatine, and amino acids.

To get a more comprehensive and clear understanding, we will look at these specific ingredients in pre-workout supplements and their impact on height in the next section.

Ingredients in Pre-Workout Supplements: Will They Stunt Your Growth?

Does pre-workout stunt growth — millann/iStock

Creatine, caffeine, BCAAs, beta-alanine, taurine, vitamin B12, citrulline malate, and added artificial sweeteners are among the pre-workout supplements’ most popular constituents. Now, let’s look at these ingredients’ importance in pre-workout supplements and their impact on height, growth, and development.

Does Beta-Alanine Stunt Your Growth?

Beta alanine’s ability to increase muscle endurance has made it a commonly used component in various pre-workout supplements. It works by increasing carnosine levels in the muscles, which helps buffer acid buildup during intense exercise.

However, when it comes to growth, rest assured that beta-alanine does not have any known direct negative impact. Beta-alanine does not pose a risk to normal human growth and development, based on current knowledge and research.

Does Caffeine Stunt Your Growth?

Caffeine has gained popularity as a natural ingredient that can provide athletes with an extra burst of energy and enhanced mental clarity during exercise. Additionally, it helps speed up fat oxidation and metabolism.

However, concerns have arisen regarding its effects on growth.

The notion that caffeine stunts growth directly lacks scientific evidence. When consumed in moderate amounts, caffeine does not interfere with growth processes.

Although, a theory expressed in a study states that caffeine consumption in children might affect their growth and development as caffeine can have an impact on children’s sleep cycle. Lack of sleep is proven to hinder growth.

Does Creatine Stunt Growth?

Creatine is a highly researched and popular supplement that has been shown to boost strength, power, and muscular mass. It plays a crucial role in energy production during high-intensity exercises.

It is widely acknowledged that supplementing with creatine has various benefits. Nevertheless, there are no studies indicating any harm or stunt caused to one’s height through creatine. Creatine does not stunt growth and there is not enough research to prove it does.

Furthermore, a study shows show a correlation between dietary creatine consumption and height, suggesting, dietary creatine might be important for healthy growth and development.

Creatine’s role in growth hormones has also been researched, a study published in the year 2000 shows that acute creatine supplementation can increase human growth hormone secretion.

However, a year later, different research found that a single session of severe resistance training had minimal impact on the responses of growth hormone, testosterone, or cortisol to short-term creatine supplementation.

Do BCAAs Stunt Your Growth?

To facilitate the crucial process of muscle protein synthesis and recovery, One must not overlook the significance of BCAAs. Leucine, isoleucine, and valine constitute these essential elements.

Because of its significance in boosting muscle development and minimizing muscular pain, BCAAs are widely found in pre-workout supplements.

Nevertheless, there is no scientific evidence suggesting that BCAAs stunt growth. In fact, they are considered beneficial for muscle development and recovery.

A study including 313 children discovered that individuals experiencing stunting had considerably lower blood levels of Leucine, Isoleucine, and Valine. These are the essential elements of BCAAs, which states that BCAAs are crucial for optimal growth.

Does Citrulline Malate Stunt Your Growth?

Citrulline malate is a well-known substance for its potential to increase nitric oxide synthesis, resulting in increased blood flow and nutrition delivery to muscles.

While citrulline malate contributes to improved exercise performance, it does not stunt growth. The available evidence points towards this component being harmless when it comes to growth processes.

Does Vitamin B12 Stunt Your Growth?

The body relies on Vitamin B12 to complete a variety of vital tasks. This nutrient plays a critical role in generating red blood cells and ensuring the brain operates optimally.

While vitamin B12 is essential for overall health, there is no evidence to support the belief that it stunts height. In fact, enough vitamin B12 consumption is required for optimal growth and development.

Studies and scientific evidence have shown that deficiency, lack, and poor profile of vitamin B12 can lead to poor growth in children.

Another research included 60 children with idiopathic short stature (ISS) who were separated into observation and control groups, it showed that regular stretching exercises combined with lysine-inositol vitamin B12 therapy effectively promoted height growth in children with ISS by increasing serum levels of growth-related hormones and factors.

Does Taurine Stunt Your Growth?

Taurine in particular holds significance in having a positive impact on our muscle functionality and scavenging free radicals that can cause cell damage. It is often included in pre-workout supplements for its potential benefits in enhancing exercise performance.

In any case, taurine has no known adverse effects on height, growth, and development. Research does not support the idea that taurine stunts growth.

According to one study, increasing taurine consumption during late pregnancy in pregnant women is connected with increased birth weight and length of neonates. The findings show a beneficial relationship between maternal taurine consumption and baby growth outcomes, underscoring taurine’s possible function in supporting fetal growth and development.

Do Artificial Sweeteners Stunt Your Growth?

Artificial sweeteners are widely utilized in pre-workout supplements to offer a sweet flavor while avoiding the addition of unnecessary calories. They have undergone extensive safety evaluations and are considered safe for consumption.

There is no scientific proof that artificial sweeteners cause stunted growth. However, it’s important to consume them in moderation, as excessive consumption may have other health implications unrelated to growth.

Takeaway: None of the ingredients commonly found in pre-workout supplements have been scientifically proven to stunt growth till now. It is essential to approach the topic with evidence-based reasoning and dispel any misconceptions surrounding these ingredients. Pre-workout supplements, when taken responsibly and in line with approved doses, can be safely included in a fitness routine without having a negative influence on growth.

Also Read: Why Is Pre-Workout So Expensive? Pre-Workout Price Paradox

Can Pre-Workout Make You Taller?

Pre-workout supplements containing certain ingredients may have a slight impact on growth during the growing years, but significant height changes cannot be expected. Other factors also influence height, so relying solely on pre-workout for height increase is not advisable.

Though pre-workout supplements can improve athletic performance, it is vital to note that their primary function is not to influence height development.

The key components in pre-workout supplements include caffeine, creatine, and amino acids. These ingredients are intended to elevate energy levels amplify muscle strength, and facilitate muscle development.

Few of them have been linked with growth in the growing years and few of them are not liked with height in any sort. But, only taking these ingredients or pre-workout supplements as a whole will not make you remarkably taller.

Height is primarily determined by genetic factors and the natural growth process that occurs during adolescence. Pre-workout supplements do not contain any magical ingredient or formula that can alter one’s genetic predisposition for height.

Therefore, it is essential to approach the claim that pre-workout can make you taller with skepticism and rely on scientific evidence.

Also Read: Can You Take Pre-Workout On An Empty Stomach? Boost Gains?

What Influences Growth and Development?

Growth and development during adolescence and early adulthood are multifaceted processes influenced by various factors. Genetics, nutrition, sleep, and exercise all play significant roles in determining an individual’s growth potential.

Role of Genetics, Nutrition, Sleep, and Exercise in Promoting Growth

Genetics forms the foundation of our growth trajectory, influencing factors such as height, bone structure, and growth patterns. However, genetics alone do not solely determine our ultimate height; environmental factors also come into play.

Nutrition is an important aspect of promoting good growth and development. A balanced diet full of necessary vitamins, minerals, and nutrients lays the groundwork for healthy bone and muscular growth.

Adequate sleep is another vital aspect of growth and development. The body creates growth hormones during sleep, which is essential for encouraging development and tissue repair. Insufficient sleep can disrupt this hormone production and potentially impact growth.

Regular exercise, particularly weight-bearing and resistance exercises, can promote bone density, muscle strength, and overall growth. Engaging in physical activity stimulates the release of growth factors and hormones, contributing to healthy growth patterns.

It is paramount to remember to perform exercises with the correct form because if you get a growth plate injury by chance then your height can be stunted. We will talk about growth plate injury ahead in this article.

Balanced Diet and Overall Healthy Lifestyle for Optimal Growth

While pre-workout supplements may offer certain advantages it’s vital to remember that a nutritious diet and regular exercise are essential for overall health and wellbeing.

To achieve maximum growth and development, a well-rounded strategy that includes a correct diet, adequate sleep, frequent exercise, and overall healthy behaviors is essential.

Also Read: Expired Pre-Workout: Does Pre-Workout Go Bad?

What Factors Contribute to Stunted Growth?

Genetics, a bad diet, chronic illness, hormonal imbalances, inadequate sleep, and specific medical issues are just a few of the causes of stunted growth. Early detection and appropriate response are crucial for addressing potential growth challenges.

Poor Nutrition

Poor nutrition is one important aspect that might cause stunted development.

The body’s capacity to develop and expand effectively might be hampered by inadequate consumption of vital nutrients, vitamins, and minerals.

Protein, calcium, vitamin D, and other essential minerals deficiency can have a negative impact on the health of the bones and the capacity for general growth.

Genetics

While genetics largely determine our height potential, certain genetic conditions can also lead to stunted growth. Conditions such as familial short stature or constitutional growth delay can cause individuals to have a slower growth rate or shorter stature.

It is essential to recognize the role of genetics in growth and understand that pre-workout supplements do not alter our genetic makeup.

Turner Syndrome

Turner Syndrome, a genetic disorder affecting females, can result in short stature and delayed growth. It occurs when one of the X chromosomes is partially or completely missing.

Although hormone therapy and growth hormone treatment can help manage the condition, pre-workout supplements do not have a direct impact on Turner Syndrome or its effects on growth.

Hypothyroidism

In cases where individuals have hypothyroidism, their thyroid gland operates at a suboptimal level which leads to diminished levels of growth hormone production and could influence proper physical development.

However, addressing hypothyroidism requires proper medical treatment and not pre-workout supplements.

Growth Plate Injury

Injuries to the growth plates, which are areas of developing cartilage at the ends of long bones, can interfere with normal growth.

These injuries typically occur during adolescence and can affect bone growth and overall height. Proper medical care and rehabilitation are necessary to manage growth plate injuries.

Growth Hormone Deficiency

A deficiency in growth hormone production can result in short stature and growth failure. However, growth hormone shortage is a medical problem that calls for professional evaluation and therapy.

Supplements for pre-workouts do not treat the root reasons for growth hormone insufficiency.

Understanding these factors that contribute to stunted growth is crucial in dispelling misconceptions surrounding pre-workout supplements’ potential role in inhibiting growth.

It is vital to focus on appropriate medical care, addressing nutritional needs, and promoting overall health to support optimal growth and development.

Also Read: Can Pre-Workout Cause Anxiety?

Frequently Asked Questions

Can supplements stunt growth?

There is no conclusive evidence to suggest that supplements when used appropriately, stunt growth. However, improper usage or excessive intake of certain supplements may have detrimental effects. As a result, it’s critical to adhere to suggested practices and be informed about the supplement’s components.

Can a 14-year-old take a pre-workout?

Pre-workout supplements are often not advised for 14-year-olds owing to the possible hazards involved with their maturing bodies. It’s important to prioritize a balanced diet, adequate rest, and age-appropriate exercise instead.

Does pre-workout increase hormones?

Pre-workout supplements themselves do not directly increase hormones. However, some ingredients like caffeine may temporarily affect hormone levels, such as adrenaline and cortisol. It’s crucial to remember that any hormonal effects are frequently transient and depend on certain conditions.

Is pre-workout bad for under 18?

Due to possible dangers and negative effects, pre-workout supplements are often not advised for anyone under the age of 18. Young bodies are still developing, and the stimulants in pre-workout can have adverse effects.

Also Read: Does Pre-Workout Cause Acne? 9+ Ways To Stop & Prevent Acne

Conclusion

In this comprehensive analysis, we have explored the topic of pre-workout supplements and their alleged impact on growth. We addressed the concern of whether pre-workout supplements stunt growth or if it is merely a misconception.

Throughout the discussion, we examined various ingredients commonly found in pre-workout supplements and their importance in enhancing athletic performance. Importantly, we found no evidence to support the claim that these ingredients stunt growth.

It is crucial to approach the topic of pre-workout supplements with evidence-based reasoning and dispel any myths or misconceptions.

When used properly and in line with approved doses, pre-workout supplements are typically safe and unlikely to have a detrimental effect on development.

However, it is crucial to prioritize overall health and well-being by considering factors like nutritious food, adequate rest, and exercise.

Ultimately, the key to promoting optimal growth and development lies in adopting a holistic approach.

Prioritizing a balanced diet that provides essential nutrients, getting sufficient sleep for proper rest and hormone production, and engaging in regular exercise to support muscle and bone health is paramount.

While pre-workout supplements can be a part of a fitness regimen, they should not be viewed as a magical solution for growth.

By understanding the factors influencing growth, dispelling myths, and focusing on a balanced lifestyle, individuals can make informed choices to support their growth journey.

Remember, growth is a complex process influenced by various factors, and pre-workout supplements, when used responsibly, are unlikely to stunt your growth.

More Pre-Workout Supplement Guides

Can You Put Pre-Workout In A Smoothie? (Safe Or Not?)

Can You Snort Pre-Workout? (What You Need To Know)

Pre Workout Crash – Why Does Pre Workout Make Me Tired?

Why Does Pre-Workout Make You Poop? Explained

Does pre workout break a fast? Can you take it while fasting?

References

Jagim AR, Harty PS, Camic CL. Common Ingredient Profiles of Multi-Ingredient Pre-Workout Supplements. Nutrients. 2019 Jan 24;11(2):254. doi: 10.3390/nu11020254. PMID: 30678328; PMCID: PMC6413194.
Torres-Ugalde YC, Romero-Palencia A, Román-Gutiérrez AD, Ojeda-Ramírez D, Guzmán-Saldaña RME. Caffeine Consumption in Children: Innocuous or Deleterious? A Systematic Review. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2020 Apr 5;17(7):2489. doi: 10.3390/ijerph17072489. PMID: 32260589; PMCID: PMC7177467.
Cooper, R., Naclerio, F., Allgrove, J. et al. Creatine supplementation with specific view to exercise/sports performance: an update. J Int Soc Sports Nutr 9, 33 (2012). https://doi.org/10.1186/1550-2783-9-33
Korovljev D, Stajer V, Ostojic SM. Relationship between Dietary Creatine and Growth Indicators in Children and Adolescents Aged 2-19 Years: A Cross-Sectional Study. Nutrients. 2021 Mar 23;13(3):1027. doi: 10.3390/nu13031027. PMID: 33806719; PMCID: PMC8004759.
Schedel JM, Tanaka H, Kiyonaga A, Shindo M, Schutz Y. Acute creatine loading enhances human growth hormone secretion. J Sports Med Phys Fitness. 2000 Dec;40(4):336-42. PMID: 11297004.
Eijnde BO, Hespel P. Short-term creatine supplementation does not alter the hormonal response to resistance training. Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2001 Mar;33(3):449-53. doi: 10.1097/00005768-200103000-00018. PMID: 11252073.
Semba RD, Shardell M, Sakr Ashour FA, Moaddel R, Trehan I, Maleta KM, Ordiz MI, Kraemer K, Khadeer MA, Ferrucci L, Manary MJ. Child Stunting is Associated with Low Circulating Essential Amino Acids. EBioMedicine. 2016 Apr;6:246-252. doi: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2016.02.030. Epub 2016 Feb 19. PMID: 27211567; PMCID: PMC4856740.
Taneja S, Chowdhury R, Kvestad I, Bhandari N, Strand TA. Vitamin B12 and/or folic acid supplementation on linear growth; a 6 years follow-up study of a randomised controlled trial in early childhood in North India. Br J Nutr. 2022 Jul 25;129(7):1-22. doi: 10.1017/S0007114522002343. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 35876047; PMCID: PMC10011595.
Strand TA, Taneja S, Kumar T, Manger MS, Refsum H, Yajnik CS, Bhandari N. Vitamin B-12, folic acid, and growth in 6- to 30-month-old children: a randomized controlled trial. Pediatrics. 2015 Apr;135(4):e918-26. doi: 10.1542/peds.2014-1848. PMID: 25802345.
Sun F, Chao L, Zhang J, Pan X. Exercise combined with lysine-inositol vitamin B12 promotes height growth in children with idiopathic short stature. Growth Horm IGF Res. 2023 Apr-Jun;69-70:101535. doi: 10.1016/j.ghir.2023.101535. Epub 2023 May 16. PMID: 37245296.
Jung, YM., Choi, MJ. (2019). Relation of Taurine Intake During Pregnancy and Newborns’ Growth. In: Hu, J., Piao, F., Schaffer, S., El Idrissi, A., Wu, JY. (eds) Taurine 11. Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology, vol 1155. Springer, Singapore. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-13-8023-5_27
Rajkumar V, Waseem M. Familial Short Stature. [Updated 2022 Aug 7]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK559123/
Aguilar D, Castano G. Constitutional Growth Delay. [Updated 2022 Jun 27]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK539780/

Bruno Morgan

Bruno Morgan is a personal fitness trainer and nutrition expert who is passionate about helping people live healthier lives. With extensive knowledge and expertise in fitness and nutrition, he stays up-to-date on the latest research and trends to help his clients. Bruno has years of experience and a commitment to ongoing education and has also personally reviewed numerous supplements, honing his deep knowledge in this field of fitness.