Skull Growth

Im 16 yrs old male and I won't be 17 till the end of September and i have a kind of small head and plus i was a premature baby so i was wonder can that affect head size?
Also can drinking alot of milk and eating calcuim rich foods help my head or jaw grow anymore?
Please im very worried about my growth and Thanks!

[Bridget A. Hewitt, RN]

Hi and thanks for using the forum.

Generally speaking, by the age of 12, your head has reached about 96-97% of its adult size.  It does continue to grow through puberty (about 18- 20), but not a lot.  At your age, you are still growing- a lot.  So a good diet with plenty of calcium for your bones is essential for you.  

As you get older, your face tends to "fill out" a bit, so don't get too worried about it being small.  If you are really worried about your growth you can ask your doctor what average size is for your age and see where you land.  There is no food or supplement that specifically will increase the size of your head and jaw.  

Also, just so you know, things that we notice about ourselves as being different, are hardly ever noticed by others.  My advice to you would be to focus on your school work, sports or other extracurricular activity, and your social life.  Your life at your age is very busy so don't let this worry you- eat well and exercise daily and try and focus on being healthy.  

Good Luck,

Bridget