You might have a lot of different feelings about looking after your own health and feeling a sense of autonomy.1 Young people on growth hormone treatment often say that they enjoy their new independence at this time. However, it’s also normal to have a few concerns.1 Managing treatment alongside daily life, such as going to school, summer camp or sleepovers with friends, may seem like a lot to deal with. And sometimes, you may feel out of control.
It may be helpful to focus on what’s actually in your control, for example, when and where you take your treatment. You’re now becoming someone who takes a more active role in their own health. You may find that thinking about situations in this way helps boost your confidence.
Along with taking your treatment as directed, there are 3 key activities you can do to make sure that you’re doing everything you can to help in your growth.
Good nutrition (healthy and balanced diet) helps encourage your growth.2 This means that you should2,3
Have a balanced diet, including a variety of fruits and vegetables (at least 5 per day) and high-fibre starchy foods such as bread, rice, potatoes and pasta.
Limit foods and drinks that are high in fat, salt and sugar
Eat plenty of foods that are rich in protein, including meat, fish, eggs, beans and pulses
Include foods that are rich in calcium, such as dairy products and leafy green vegetables. You can also try dairy alternatives such as soya drinks
Drink plenty of fluids (at least 6-8 glasses per day)
It’s important to find an activity you enjoy that keeps you active, such as going on bike rides with friends.4 Exercising regularly, such as high intensity resistance workouts, helps strengthen your muscles, bones and joints.4 You should speak to your healthcare team to find out how much exercise is right for you.4 Also, make sure you’re supervised by a trained adult to ensure you’re using safe and proper techniques to avoid injury.4
It’s important to balance exercise with adequate rest. However, avoid spending long periods sitting down without moving.4 Having a good sleep routine is important because night-time is when your body prepares and releases growth hormone.5 In general, 8 to 9 hours of sleep are recommended.6
References
Hokken-Koelega A, van der Lely AJ, Hauffa B, et al. Bridging the gap: metabolic and endocrine care of patients during transition. Endocr Connect. 2016;5(6):R44-R54.
Eat well. NHS. Accessed September 6, 2023. https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/eat-well/
Healthy eating for teenagers. NHS. Accessed September 6, 2023. https://www.wsh.nhs.uk/CMS-Documents/Patient-leaflets/PaediatricDepartment/6297-1-Healthy-eating-for-teenagers.pdf
Exercise for children and young people. NHS Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children. Accessed September 6, 2023. https://www.gosh.nhs.uk/medical-information/general-health-advice/leading-active-lifestyle/exercise-children-and-young-people%5C
Sleep and human growth hormone. Sleep Help. Accessed September 6, 2023. https://www.sleephelp.org/hgh-and-sleep/
How to sleep well for teenagers. Evelina London Children’s Healthcare: Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust. Accessed September 6, 2023. https://www.evelinalondon.nhs.uk/our-services/hospital/sleep-medicine-department/how-to-sleep-well-for-teenagers.aspx