Doctors in China have issued a stern warning after actress Deng Sha, 38 years old, gave unapproved "height-boosting" medicine to her 11-year-old son's food, provoking widespread concern. The video, viewed over 100 million times on Weibo, shows Deng sprinkling powder from a height-enhancing supplement onto her son's meal. This mainly sparked concerns among doctors and parents. This desperate measure shows that some parents set off to enhance their children's physical appearance.
Key Takeaways:
Unapproved "height-boosting" supplements pose health risks.
No scientific evidence supports their effectiveness.
Genetics primarily determine height.
China's National Medical Products Administration has not approved any height-enhancing products.
These supplements, often containing Vitamin D and L-lysine, have no scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness and may pose serious health risks as doctors are strictly warning about the issue. The specific brand and supplement composition used by Deng remains undisclosed. Deng's son, "Big Lindsey," is reportedly one of the shortest in his class. While some netizens support Deng's concerns, others criticize her decision.
These products may temporarily promote growth, but at the same time, they may close children's growth plates early, leading to a variety of side effectsZhu Xiuan, Pediatrician at Zhejiang Zhongshan Hospital
Reports indicate that certain children's health supplements marketed as "height enhancers" are priced between 200 and 400 yuan (US$28-US$56) per bottle. Netizens are divided, with some supporting Deng's concerns and others criticizing her decision. Experts emphasize that genetics primarily determine height, and a balanced diet with adequate Vitamin D from sunlight is the best support. One online observer advised Deng, pointing out that boys typically experience a rapid growth normally during secondary school.
What if he does not grow taller later?Deng Sha, Chinese actress
Questions Raised By Netizens:
What drives parents to seek unproven solutions for their children's physical appearance?
How can authorities regulate false advertising and ensure public safety?
What are the long-term consequences of using unapproved height-enhancing supplements?
Reference:
1. Zhang, Zoey. "China Actress Warned by Doctors after Adding ‘Height-Boosting’ Drugs to Son’s Food." South China Morning Post, October 2, 2024. Accessed October 11, 2024. https://www.scmp.com/news/people-culture/trending-china/article/3280307/china-actress-warned-doctors-after-adding-height-boosting-drugs-sons-food.
(Input From Various Sources)
(Rehash/Neha Kamble/MSM)