Heightmaxing Megaguide: From Height Mogged to Height Mogger (The Mechanisms Driving Height And How To Enhance Them)

[Vista]

Introduction
​

As many of you know ‘heightmaxing’ is a popular topic of discussion on this website, which is no surprise given the importance of height on attractiveness as well as a plethora of other benefits associated with being taller.

I’m sure we’re all familiar with the importance of height, but there is a concerning deficit of information regarding methods and knowledge on how to engender an increase of height.

This shouldn’t come as much of a surprise, since the mechanisms behind increasing your height are very complex and we still don’t know a lot about the subject. Many factors work together to determine height and there is a lot of disagreement in the scientific community on the subject.

The purpose of this guide is to take a relatively simplistic, scientific and easy to understand approach to height maxing, which will hopefully dispel some of the confusion on the subject. The ‘science’ bits will be written in red for those wanting elaboration.

Overview of the mechanisms involved in growing taller​

1) Activation Phase: This is the beginning of bone growth. Cells called chondrocytes (cartilage) come together and proliferate (replicate). They create a blueprint made of cartilage, like a model for the bone to follow.

2) Osteoclast Recruitment and Resorption Phase (Hypertrophy Phase): Chondrocytes grow bigger (hypertrophy) and start turning the cartilage into hard stuff. Think of them as builders laying down the foundation for the bone.

3) Reversal Phase (Osteoblast Phase): A group of cells called osteoblasts moves in. They see the blueprint created by the cartilage and start adding bone on stop.

4) Formation Phase (Calcification Phase): The material the osteoblasts add becomes hard and strong because it calcifies, which is like turning it into concrete. Picture the bone getting denser and stronger.

5) Mineralization Phase (Ossification Phase): This is when the bone really takes shape. More bone cells come in, and they keep building and strengthening the bone, kind of like construction workers finishing a house.

6) Closure Phase (Epiphyseal Plate Closure): During adolescence, special plates at the ends of your long bones, called epiphyseal plates or growth plates, are active and contribute to your height. But once you reach a certain age, usually 15- 17, these plates close up.

During osteoclastogenesis phases 1- 5 are constantly repeating in a loop until the closure phase. ​

The phase in osteoclastogenesis (bone growth) which contributes to enlarging your longitudinal height the most is the activation phase, which starts when you are an embryo and ends with the closure phase.

Now the question becomes: how do I enhance the mechanisms of the activation phase.

Spoiler: What is cell proliferation

During the activation phase cartilage grows through proliferation and differentiation.

Cell proliferation = Cell gets bigger + Cell divides, AKA More cells

For the purpose of heightmaxing, proliferation is one of the important mechanisms that drives height growth.

We need to do everything possible to enhance cell proliferation and cell size in the growth plate.

What we need to do to heightmax

1) Increase cartilage proliferation (replication)
2) Increase cartilage hypertrophy (size)
3) Delay the closure phase

One of the ways we can increase proliferation and hypertrophy is with growth factors (a subset of cytokines).



An Introduction To Growth Factors & Hormones

​

There are some things we can do to increase the proliferation and hypertrophy of cartilage in the growth plate. This is done through bone growth factors, which work through a variety of different mechanisms and pathways.

Known bone growth factors (outside of foetal development) include:

Spoiler: Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1)

• Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) is the most abundant growth factor deposited in the bone matrix and stimulates cell proliferation and function, and survival of osteoblasts.
• There are several reports demonstrating the synergistic effects of IGF-1 and PTH on bone remodelling and establishing the involvement of locally produced IGF-1 in the anabolic effects of PTH

Spoiler: Parathyroid hormone-related peptide (PTHrP and PTH)

• PTH can exert both catabolic and anabolic effects on bone. It is well established that daily injections of low doses of PTH increase bone mass in animals and humans

• Transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β)
  • TGF-β1
  • TGF-β3
    • Sort of a double edged sword, can cause an increase of bone mass but also osteoporosis, it is best to use this as little as possible.

• Fibroblast growth factors (FGF)
  • FGF 1 - 10
  • FGF18
    • Endogenous FGF-2 was found to be necessary for the bone anabolic effects of PTH and BMP-2 in mice

• Platetet- Derived Growth Factor (PDGF)

• Growth Differentiation Factor (GDF)
  • GDF3
  • GDF6
  • GDF10

• Fibroblast Growth Factor (FGF)

Hormones also play a role in height and morphology, a brief overview of which is provided below: ​

• Growth Hormone:
  • Stimulates IGF-1 growth factor AND IGF-1 receptor production. Growth hormone (GH) is a peptide hormone secreted from the pituitary gland under the control of the hypothalamus. It has been reported that both GH-deficient humans and mice have reduced longitudinal bone growth

• Testosterone & DHT:
  
  • Broadens Shoulders & promotes sexual dimorphism. Androgens can also modulate growth plate maturation and closure, and thus affect longitudinal bone growth. In addition, androgens regulate trabecular and cortical bone mass, and inhibit bone loss

• Oestrogen (Estrogen):
  • Causes the hips to widen and become rounded & speed up the rate of Growth Plate fusion (more on this in part 4). Oestrogen is also needed for healthy bones.

• Thyroid Hormones: Thyroid hormones, particularly thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) promote chondrocyte proliferation and the synthesis of collagen and other bone matrix proteins.

Something rarely mentioned in heightmaxing is Growth Factor receptors, growth factor receptors and growth factors as two puzzle pieces, they need each other to work.​

There aren’t many ways to directly increase Growth factor receptors, but some studies suggest that increasing one growth factor can signal others to proliferate.

What this also means is that depending on your specific distribution of growth factor receptors your growth will be somewhat random. People who have more receptors in their legs/ epiphyseal plate will experience more growth in that area than someone with more receptors in their shoulders or nose.

An overview of some of the process' involved promoting bone growth



Applying Growth Factors



​

Primary Growth Factors - Factors that lead to the most growth


IGF-1 (IGF-1 LR3)

One of the most popular growth factors on looksmax for heightmaxing is IGF-1, which granted its price and efficacy should come as no surprise . Another advantage of IGF-1 is that it binds and activates its own receptor.​

​

Among the insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) analogues, the one with the best balance between potency and half life is IGF-1 LR3. It has a half life of between 20-30 hours and a stronger binding affinity than naturally occurring IGF-1​

Growth Hormone (HGH)

Again, a very popular growth factor on this website. Growth hormone (GH) is a peptide hormone secreted from the pituitary gland under the control of the hypothalamus. GH, along with its binding protein (GHBP), regulates growth directly through the GH receptor (GHR) and indirectly by stimulating liver and skeletal IGF-1 expression.​

​

It has been reported that GH stimulates osteoblast proliferation and collagen production either directly and/or indirectly by increasing IGF-1 and IGF binding protein (IGFBP) production​

​

These effects make GH useful, mostly due to its signalling properties and ability to upregulate the number of Growth Hormone receptors. ​

​

While the increase in IGF-1 is also useful, we already know that synthetic IGF-1 analogues like IGF-1 LR3 are more potent, meaning that both GH and IGF-1 LR3 could be used synergistically. ​

PTH

A compound not typically discussed on this forum is Parathyroid hormone.​

​

Parathyroid hormone (PTH), also called parathormone or parathyrin, is a peptide hormone secreted by the parathyroid glands.​

​

As mentioned earlier, PTH and IGF-1 are known to have synergistic effects, therefore it is advantageous to be running both IGF and PTH in the same stack.​

​

Osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs treated with vehicle (-), IGF-1 (50 ng·mL-1), PTH (100 nmol·L-1), or both as assessed by alkaline phosphatase.

We can see that using both IGF and PTF gives us significantly more growth.​

Secondary Growth Factors - Factors That Support Growth

​

Calcitriol

Calcitriol is the biologically active form of vitamin D in the body. It is also known as 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 or simply activated vitamin D. It is up to 1,000 times more potent than vitamin d2 and d3, making it ideal for supporting growth.​

Testosterone & DHT

By far one of the most influential androgens on height and the development of a sexually dimorphic skeleton. The androgen mechanism of action on height is not well understood, but it is known to stimulate longitudinal bone growth as well as radial bone growth, thereby increasing the cortical bone size.​

Lifestyle/ Diet

By far one of the most under looked growth factors is your lifestyle, it is often the easiest and one of the most impactful on your height.​

​

Eating enough food is vital to create the building blocks of hormones/ growth factors, ultimately increasing your height. It has been suggested that in addition to adequate intake of macro and micronutrients (vitamins, minerals, amino acids) intermittent fasting can also be beneficial for raising IGF-1 and increasing insulin sensitivity. Diets high in protein and dairy (not including cheese) were also found to elevate IGF-1.​

​

Adequate sleep, minimal stress and regular exercise are also seen to have positive effects on height.​

​

​

​

Delaying Growth Plate Fusion​

​

​

“Oestrogen causes maturation of the growth plate, accelerating skeletal maturation and the accumulation of minerals into the cartilage. Oestrogen also promotes the closure of the physis, stopping the axial growth of the bone. Decreases in total oestrogen or oestrogen receptor sensitivity results in longer bones and tall stature”​

What this means is that oestrogen is one of the driving forces behind signalling the closure phase. One of the ways Oestrogen can be regulated is via a class of drugs called antioestrogens.​

​

Antioestrogens I recommend:

• Exemestane (Aromasin) is relatively easy to get, has a long half life (24 hours), low side effects and decent bioavailability.

• Letrozole has also been shown to delay the fusing of the growth plates in mice. When used in combination with growth hormone, letrozole has been shown effective in one adolescent boy with a short stature. Mice administered with Letrozole were also found to have higher testosterone levels. I recomend cycling Lerozole with Aromasin.

Growing Taller​

​

​

​

If you are 15 and over I recommend getting an x- ray done of your epiphyseal plate to confirm whether or not it has fused. Complete fusion of the growth plate most commonly occurs between 15-17 in males (and no, you’re probably not an exception).

If your epiphyseal plate is open great, if not then you can still apply some of these methods to improve your frame. All bones fuse at different times, so even though your epiphyseal plate is sealed your other bones, such as the tibia and collarbone may still be open, allowing you to grow (more on this below).

It is also worth noting that Europeans & Asians have delayed growth compared to Africans and Hispanics, which means that Europeans and Asians undergo bone fusion later (usually 16) compared to as early as 14 in Africans and Hispanics.

If you are considering running a stack make sure that you can commit to running it for at least 6 months, ideally more than a year.

Stacks​

NBA Stack
For maximum height gains, the most expensive and riskiest

IGF-1 LR3​

30 - 50 mcg/every other day, subQ, preferably before bed​

​

HGH​

(Between 0.2 to 0.3 mcg) x bodyweight (kg) = weekly dosage/ 7 = daily dose, inject before bed SubQ​

​

AI​

Exemestane (Aromasin) 25mg/every other day or Letrozole every 4 days at 2.5mg. Depending on how long you plan to run a stack for, I would consider cycling this after more than 4-5 months.​

​

PTH​

Heightmaxing dosage is unknown, though it is clinically used between 25 mcg - 100 mcg everyday, I would recommend going no more than 25 mcg every other day. Inject subQ with IGF-1, before bed.​

While I recommend PTH for people wishing to significantly increase height, its use will require monitoring of blood Vitamin D, Phosphorus and Calcium levels during its use and possible supplementation.​

​

Calcitriol​

0.25- 0.50 mcg/ day, take caution if using with PTH. Watch out for hypercalcemia.​

​

Optional ​

Testosterone: any ester will be fine, though I recommend using Testosterone Propionate or Testosterone Enanthate. For height maxing a high dose of testosterone is not required, although those wishing to influence greater dimorphism may wish to increase the dosage. Do your own research if you plan to use Test.​

​

Run the stack for 4 weeks, take two weeks off, take 0.2mcg/kg HGH daily during off weeks. After 6 months: 4 weeks on, 6 weeks off, 0.2mcg HGH/day (this advice does not factor Test into account).​

​

​

​

Midstack
An affordable stack, best for most people, mild risk

IGF-1 LR3​

50 - 80 mcg/ every other day, subQ, preferably before bed​

​

Vitamin D3 (MK-7) ​

50K IU/ 3 times per week + 2.25mg K2/ with every D3 dose​

[1000 IU D3: 50mcg K2], I also recommend supplementing with magnesium, watch out for hypercalcemia.​

​

AI​

Exemestane (Aromasin) 25mg/every other day or Letrozole every 4 days at 2.5mg. Depending on how long you plan to run a stack for, I would consider cycling this after more than 4-5 months.​

​

​

​

Poorcel
Questionable results on a budget

MK677 ​

35 - 45 mg/day (bedtime) for 4 weeks, then every other day for two weeks at 20mg; repeat. I would also recommend mega dosing P-5-P throughout your cycle to decrease prolactin, especially if you are feeling symptoms of increased prolactin (gyno, decreased libido/mood, etc). For every 4 months on take 1 month off.​

​

AI (optional)​

Exemestane (Aromasin) 25mg/every other day or Letrozole every 4 days at 2.5mg. Depending on how long you plan to run a stack for, I would consider cycling this after more than 4-5 months.​

​

​

​

Stack Advise and Warnings​

​

​

For those whose epiphyseal plates are closed and you want to increase your frame, you do not need to run these stacks with the same dosage.​

​

If you are older than 24 do not run any of these stacks (it's already over), as you will probably suffer from Acromegaly.​

​

Users on looksmax also recommend running compounds like mod GRF, hexarelin, CJC, etc. These compounds are all GH secretagogues, meaning they tell your brain to produce more GH, and as we already know administration of IGF-1 analogues like LR3 are far more effective. For this reason I think secretagogues are subpar to IGF/GH and should be avoided (unless you have no choice).​

​

There is still lots of debate around whether exogenous administration of growth factors causes certain cancers, some studies have shown for there to be a correlation, while others have disproved it. Do this at your own risk.​

​

​

“Our results do not generally support a carcinogenic effect of r-hGH, but the unexplained trend in cancer mortality risk in relation to GH dose in patients with previous cancer, and the indication of possible effects on bone cancer, bladder cancer and Hodgkin lymphoma risks, need further investigation.” ​

Cancer risks in patients treated with growth hormone in childhood: the SAGhE European cohort study - PMC (nih.gov)​

​

​

Elevated levels of GH/IGF-1 have also been reported to have side effects, most notably swelling of the feet or hands. If this occurs, discontinue use for a few weeks and try again at a lower dosage.​

​

Prior to injecting or taking anything make sure to do your own research on the side effects. Decrease the dosages according to how you feel, everyone tolerates drugs differently.​

​

Long term administration of GH/ IGF-1 has also been found to decrease insulin sensitivity, if you have diabetes or a family history reconsider heightmaxing. Exercise caution after the 4-6 month mark of running a stack, consider taking more time off and monitor your blood sugar.​

​

Stretching exercises/ hanging are also a cope, there is no evidence of any long term height increases.​

​

​

​

Lifestyle Changes​

​

​

​

Some lifestyle changes that may contribute to increasing height:

• Eat a high protein diet (ideally >50% daily cal from protein)
• Ensure you get enough nutrients (use https://cronometer.com/), use supplements if you need to, make sure they are bioavailable.
• Eat in a slight surplus, 400 - 600 cal (unless you are obese, lose the weight first and then eat in surplus)
• Incorporate resistance training. For those serious about heightmaxing I would avoid exercises that compress your spine or pose a risk of damaging your joints (squats, deadlifts, OHP), instead opting for callisthenics and sprinting.
  • Bone morphogenetic protein 3 was found to be elevated in fractured tissue (this may include microfractures). BMP3 is an agonist to other BMP’s, which means that more BMP3 = less bone growth (this doesn't mean you shouldn't exercise).
• Diet high in dairy products and calcium
• Sleeping >8 hours/ night consistently
• Some herbal supplements like Tongat Ali, Ashwagnada, etc may be useful for lowering oestrogen/ increasing testosterone; promoting sexual dimorphism.
  • Depending on your situation you may also opt for using herbal supplements to control your oestrogen (delay fusion) and increase GH. The efficacy of these herbs are usually very questionable, and almost all (>90% of online vendors underdose their products).
• Decrease consumption of sugars (fructose, glucose, etc)

Conclusion


While this guide is far from perfect, hopefully I covered enough to help some of you on your heightmaxing journey. Best of luck and thanks for reading.
​

Spoiler: Sources

All this information was revealed to me in a dream

Inb4 greycel​

 

[JCaesar]

High quality thread, would any of the stacks ingredients interfer with your natural production or other body development if you're still in puberty (like 15 or 16)? And you know if an AI would actually mess with stuff like brain development and such?

 

[Vista]

High quality thread, would any of the stacks ingredients interfer with your natural production or other body development if you're still in puberty (like 15 or 16)? And you know if an AI would actually mess with stuff like brain development and such?

It technically will interfere with your natural production as high levels of IGF-1 in the blood suppresses secretion of GHRH and growth hormone., but this shouldn't matter much as you are blasting GH and IGF

Low E can also affect brain development, I personally recommend taking low dose of AI if you are 15.5 and younger if all you care about is heightmaxing

 

[Tyrone06]

Introduction
​

As many of you know ‘heightmaxing’ is a popular topic of discussion on this website, which is no surprise given the importance of height on attractiveness as well as a plethora of other benefits associated with being taller.

I’m sure we’re all familiar with the importance of height, but there is a concerning deficit of information regarding methods and knowledge on how to engender an increase of height.

This shouldn’t come as much of a surprise, since the mechanisms behind increasing your height are very complex and we still don’t know a lot about the subject. Many factors work together to determine height and there is a lot of disagreement in the scientific community on the subject.

The purpose of this guide is to take a relatively simplistic, scientific and easy to understand approach to height maxing, which will hopefully dispel some of the confusion on the subject. The ‘science’ bits will be written in red for those wanting elaboration.

View attachment 2423234

Overview of the mechanisms involved in growing taller​

1) Activation Phase: This is the beginning of bone growth. Cells called chondrocytes (cartilage) come together and proliferate (replicate). They create a blueprint made of cartilage, like a model for the bone to follow.

2) Osteoclast Recruitment and Resorption Phase (Hypertrophy Phase): Chondrocytes grow bigger (hypertrophy) and start turning the cartilage into hard stuff. Think of them as builders laying down the foundation for the bone.

3) Reversal Phase (Osteoblast Phase): A group of cells called osteoblasts moves in. They see the blueprint created by the cartilage and start adding bone on stop.

4) Formation Phase (Calcification Phase): The material the osteoblasts add becomes hard and strong because it calcifies, which is like turning it into concrete. Picture the bone getting denser and stronger.

5) Mineralization Phase (Ossification Phase): This is when the bone really takes shape. More bone cells come in, and they keep building and strengthening the bone, kind of like construction workers finishing a house.

6) Closure Phase (Epiphyseal Plate Closure): During adolescence, special plates at the ends of your long bones, called epiphyseal plates or growth plates, are active and contribute to your height. But once you reach a certain age, usually 15- 17, these plates close up.

View attachment 2423236

During osteoclastogenesis phases 1- 5 are constantly repeating in a loop until the closure phase. ​

The phase in osteoclastogenesis (bone growth) which contributes to enlarging your longitudinal height the most is the activation phase, which starts when you are an embryo and ends with the closure phase.

Now the question becomes: how do I enhance the mechanisms of the activation phase.

Spoiler: What is cell proliferation

During the activation phase cartilage grows through proliferation and differentiation.

Cell proliferation = Cell gets bigger + Cell divides, AKA More cells

View attachment 2423237

For the purpose of heightmaxing, proliferation is one of the important mechanisms that drives height growth.

We need to do everything possible to enhance cell proliferation and cell size in the growth plate.

What we need to do to heightmax

1) Increase cartilage proliferation (replication)
2) Increase cartilage hypertrophy (size)
3) Delay the closure phase

One of the ways we can increase proliferation and hypertrophy is with growth factors (a subset of cytokines).



An Introduction To Growth Factors & Hormones

​

There are some things we can do to increase the proliferation and hypertrophy of cartilage in the growth plate. This is done through bone growth factors, which work through a variety of different mechanisms and pathways.

Known bone growth factors (outside of foetal development) include:

Spoiler: Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1)

• Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) is the most abundant growth factor deposited in the bone matrix and stimulates cell proliferation and function, and survival of osteoblasts.
• There are several reports demonstrating the synergistic effects of IGF-1 and PTH on bone remodelling and establishing the involvement of locally produced IGF-1 in the anabolic effects of PTH

Spoiler: Parathyroid hormone-related peptide (PTHrP and PTH)

• PTH can exert both catabolic and anabolic effects on bone. It is well established that daily injections of low doses of PTH increase bone mass in animals and humans

• Transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β)
  • TGF-β1
  • TGF-β3
    • Sort of a double edged sword, can cause an increase of bone mass but also osteoporosis, it is best to use this as little as possible.

• Fibroblast growth factors (FGF)
  • FGF 1 - 10
  • FGF18
    • Endogenous FGF-2 was found to be necessary for the bone anabolic effects of PTH and BMP-2 in mice

• Platetet- Derived Growth Factor (PDGF)

• Growth Differentiation Factor (GDF)
  • GDF3
  • GDF6
  • GDF10

• Fibroblast Growth Factor (FGF)

Hormones also play a role in height and morphology, a brief overview of which is provided below: ​

• Growth Hormone:
  • Stimulates IGF-1 growth factor AND IGF-1 receptor production. Growth hormone (GH) is a peptide hormone secreted from the pituitary gland under the control of the hypothalamus. It has been reported that both GH-deficient humans and mice have reduced longitudinal bone growth

• Testosterone & DHT:
  
  • Broadens Shoulders & promotes sexual dimorphism. Androgens can also modulate growth plate maturation and closure, and thus affect longitudinal bone growth. In addition, androgens regulate trabecular and cortical bone mass, and inhibit bone loss

• Oestrogen (Estrogen):
  • Causes the hips to widen and become rounded & speed up the rate of Growth Plate fusion (more on this in part 4). Oestrogen is also needed for healthy bones.

• Thyroid Hormones: Thyroid hormones, particularly thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) promote chondrocyte proliferation and the synthesis of collagen and other bone matrix proteins.

Something rarely mentioned in heightmaxing is Growth Factor receptors, growth factor receptors and growth factors as two puzzle pieces, they need each other to work.​

There aren’t many ways to directly increase Growth factor receptors, but some studies suggest that increasing one growth factor can signal others to proliferate.

What this also means is that depending on your specific distribution of growth factor receptors your growth will be somewhat random. People who have more receptors in their legs/ epiphyseal plate will experience more growth in that area than someone with more receptors in their shoulders or nose.

View attachment 2423238

An overview of some of the process' involved promoting bone growth



Applying Growth Factors



​

Primary Growth Factors - Factors that lead to the most growth


IGF-1 (IGF-1 LR3)

One of the most popular growth factors on looksmax for heightmaxing is IGF-1, which granted its price and efficacy should come as no surprise . Another advantage of IGF-1 is that it binds and activates its own receptor.​

​

Among the insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) analogues, the one with the best balance between potency and half life is IGF-1 LR3. It has a half life of between 20-30 hours and a stronger binding affinity than naturally occurring IGF-1​

Growth Hormone (HGH)

Again, a very popular growth factor on this website. Growth hormone (GH) is a peptide hormone secreted from the pituitary gland under the control of the hypothalamus. GH, along with its binding protein (GHBP), regulates growth directly through the GH receptor (GHR) and indirectly by stimulating liver and skeletal IGF-1 expression.​

​

It has been reported that GH stimulates osteoblast proliferation and collagen production either directly and/or indirectly by increasing IGF-1 and IGF binding protein (IGFBP) production​

​

These effects make GH useful, mostly due to its signalling properties and ability to upregulate the number of Growth Hormone receptors. ​

​

While the increase in IGF-1 is also useful, we already know that synthetic IGF-1 analogues like IGF-1 LR3 are more potent, meaning that both GH and IGF-1 LR3 could be used synergistically. ​

PTH

A compound not typically discussed on this forum is Parathyroid hormone.​

​

Parathyroid hormone (PTH), also called parathormone or parathyrin, is a peptide hormone secreted by the parathyroid glands.​

​

As mentioned earlier, PTH and IGF-1 are known to have synergistic effects, therefore it is advantageous to be running both IGF and PTH in the same stack.​

​

View attachment 2423240

Osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs treated with vehicle (-), IGF-1 (50 ng·mL-1), PTH (100 nmol·L-1), or both as assessed by alkaline phosphatase.

We can see that using both IGF and PTF gives us significantly more growth.​

Secondary Growth Factors - Factors That Support Growth

​

Calcitriol

Calcitriol is the biologically active form of vitamin D in the body. It is also known as 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 or simply activated vitamin D. It is up to 1,000 times more potent than vitamin d2 and d3, making it ideal for supporting growth.​

Testosterone & DHT

By far one of the most influential androgens on height and the development of a sexually dimorphic skeleton. The androgen mechanism of action on height is not well understood, but it is known to stimulate longitudinal bone growth as well as radial bone growth, thereby increasing the cortical bone size.​

Lifestyle/ Diet

By far one of the most under looked growth factors is your lifestyle, it is often the easiest and one of the most impactful on your height.​

​

Eating enough food is vital to create the building blocks of hormones/ growth factors, ultimately increasing your height. It has been suggested that in addition to adequate intake of macro and micronutrients (vitamins, minerals, amino acids) intermittent fasting can also be beneficial for raising IGF-1 and increasing insulin sensitivity. Diets high in protein and dairy (not including cheese) were also found to elevate IGF-1.​

​

Adequate sleep, minimal stress and regular exercise are also seen to have positive effects on height.​

​

​

​

​

Delaying Growth Plate Fusion​

​

​

“Oestrogen causes maturation of the growth plate, accelerating skeletal maturation and the accumulation of minerals into the cartilage. Oestrogen also promotes the closure of the physis, stopping the axial growth of the bone. Decreases in total oestrogen or oestrogen receptor sensitivity results in longer bones and tall stature”​

What this means is that oestrogen is one of the driving forces behind signalling the closure phase. One of the ways Oestrogen can be regulated is via a class of drugs called antioestrogens.​

​

Antioestrogens I recommend:

• Exemestane (Aromasin) is relatively easy to get, has a long half life (24 hours), low side effects and decent bioavailability.

• Letrozole has also been shown to delay the fusing of the growth plates in mice. When used in combination with growth hormone, letrozole has been shown effective in one adolescent boy with a short stature. Mice administered with Letrozole were also found to have higher testosterone levels. I recomend cycling Lerozole with Aromasin.

​

Growing Taller​

​

​

​

If you are 15 and over I recommend getting an x- ray done of your epiphyseal plate to confirm whether or not it has fused. Complete fusion of the growth plate most commonly occurs between 15-17 in males (and no, you’re probably not an exception).

If your epiphyseal plate is open great, if not then you can still apply some of these methods to improve your frame. All bones fuse at different times, so even though your epiphyseal plate is sealed your other bones, such as the tibia and collarbone may still be open, allowing you to grow (more on this below).

It is also worth noting that Europeans & Asians have delayed growth compared to Africans and Hispanics, which means that Europeans and Asians undergo bone fusion later (usually 16) compared to as early as 14 in Africans and Hispanics.

If you are considering running a stack make sure that you can commit to running it for at least 6 months, ideally more than a year.

Stacks​

NBA Stack
For maximum height gains, the most expensive and riskiest

IGF-1 LR3​

30 - 50 mcg/every other day, subQ, preferably before bed​

​

HGH​

(Between 0.2 to 0.3 mcg) x bodyweight (kg) = weekly dosage/ 7 = daily dose, inject before bed SubQ​

​

AI​

Exemestane (Aromasin) 25mg/every other day or Letrozole every 4 days at 2.5mg. Depending on how long you plan to run a stack for, I would consider cycling this after more than 4-5 months.​

​

PTH​

Heightmaxing dosage is unknown, though it is clinically used between 25 mcg - 100 mcg everyday, I would recommend going no more than 25 mcg every other day. Inject subQ with IGF-1, before bed.​

While I recommend PTH for people wishing to significantly increase height, its use will require monitoring of blood Vitamin D, Phosphorus and Calcium levels during its use and possible supplementation.​

​

Calcitriol​

0.25- 0.50 mcg/ day, take caution if using with PTH. Watch out for hypercalcemia.​

​

Optional ​

Testosterone: any ester will be fine, though I recommend using Testosterone Propionate or Testosterone Enanthate. For height maxing a high dose of testosterone is not required, although those wishing to influence greater dimorphism may wish to increase the dosage. Do your own research if you plan to use Test.​

​

Run the stack for 4 weeks, take two weeks off, take 0.2mcg/kg HGH daily during off weeks. After 6 months: 4 weeks on, 6 weeks off, 0.2mcg HGH/day (this advice does not factor Test into account).​

​

​

​

Midstack
An affordable stack, best for most people, mild risk

IGF-1 LR3​

50 - 80 mcg/ every other day, subQ, preferably before bed​

​

Vitamin D3 (MK-7) ​

50K IU/ 3 times per week + 2.25mg K2/ with every D3 dose​

[1000 IU D3: 50mcg K2], I also recommend supplementing with magnesium, watch out for hypercalcemia.​

​

AI​

Exemestane (Aromasin) 25mg/every other day or Letrozole every 4 days at 2.5mg. Depending on how long you plan to run a stack for, I would consider cycling this after more than 4-5 months.​

​

​

​

Poorcel
Questionable results on a budget

MK677 ​

35 - 45 mg/day (bedtime) for 4 weeks, then every other day for two weeks at 20mg; repeat. I would also recommend mega dosing P-5-P throughout your cycle to decrease prolactin, especially if you are feeling symptoms of increased prolactin (gyno, decreased libido/mood, etc). For every 4 months on take 1 month off.​

​

AI (optional)​

Exemestane (Aromasin) 25mg/every other day or Letrozole every 4 days at 2.5mg. Depending on how long you plan to run a stack for, I would consider cycling this after more than 4-5 months.​

​

​

​

​

Stack Advise and Warnings​

​

​

For those whose epiphyseal plates are closed and you want to increase your frame, you do not need to run these stacks with the same dosage.​

​

If you are older than 24 do not run any of these stacks (it's already over), as you will probably suffer from Acromegaly.​

​

Users on looksmax also recommend running compounds like mod GRF, hexarelin, CJC, etc. These compounds are all GH secretagogues, meaning they tell your brain to produce more GH, and as we already know administration of IGF-1 analogues like LR3 are far more effective. For this reason I think secretagogues are subpar to IGF/GH and should be avoided (unless you have no choice).​

​

There is still lots of debate around whether exogenous administration of growth factors causes certain cancers, some studies have shown for there to be a correlation, while others have disproved it. Do this at your own risk.​

​

​

​

“Our results do not generally support a carcinogenic effect of r-hGH, but the unexplained trend in cancer mortality risk in relation to GH dose in patients with previous cancer, and the indication of possible effects on bone cancer, bladder cancer and Hodgkin lymphoma risks, need further investigation.” ​

Cancer risks in patients treated with growth hormone in childhood: the SAGhE European cohort study - PMC (nih.gov)​

​

​

Elevated levels of GH/IGF-1 have also been reported to have side effects, most notably swelling of the feet or hands. If this occurs, discontinue use for a few weeks and try again at a lower dosage.​

​

Prior to injecting or taking anything make sure to do your own research on the side effects. Decrease the dosages according to how you feel, everyone tolerates drugs differently.​

​

Long term administration of GH/ IGF-1 has also been found to decrease insulin sensitivity, if you have diabetes or a family history reconsider heightmaxing. Exercise caution after the 4-6 month mark of running a stack, consider taking more time off and monitor your blood sugar.​

​

Stretching exercises/ hanging are also a cope, there is no evidence of any long term height increases.​

​

​

​

​

Lifestyle Changes​

​

​

​

Some lifestyle changes that may contribute to increasing height:

• Eat a high protein diet (ideally >50% daily cal from protein)
• Ensure you get enough nutrients (use https://cronometer.com/), use supplements if you need to, make sure they are bioavailable.
• Eat in a slight surplus, 400 - 600 cal (unless you are obese, lose the weight first and then eat in surplus)
• Incorporate resistance training. For those serious about heightmaxing I would avoid exercises that compress your spine or pose a risk of damaging your joints (squats, deadlifts, OHP), instead opting for callisthenics and sprinting.
  • Bone morphogenetic protein 3 was found to be elevated in fractured tissue (this may include microfractures). BMP3 is an agonist to other BMP’s, which means that more BMP3 = less bone growth (this doesn't mean you shouldn't exercise).
• Diet high in dairy products and calcium
• Sleeping >8 hours/ night consistently
• Some herbal supplements like Tongat Ali, Ashwagnada, etc may be useful for lowering oestrogen/ increasing testosterone; promoting sexual dimorphism.
  • Depending on your situation you may also opt for using herbal supplements to control your oestrogen (delay fusion) and increase GH. The efficacy of these herbs are usually very questionable, and almost all (>90% of online vendors underdose their products).
• Decrease consumption of sugars (fructose, glucose, etc)

Conclusion


While this guide is far from perfect, hopefully I covered enough to help some of you on your heightmaxing journey. Best of luck and thanks for reading.
​

Spoiler: Sources

All this information was revealed to me in a dream

Inb4 greycel​

no way im reading this wish it was shorter

 

[JCaesar]

It technically will interfere with your natural production as high levels of IGF-1 in the blood suppresses secretion of GHRH and growth hormone., but this shouldn't matter much as you are blasting GH and IGF

Low E can also affect brain development, I personally recommend taking low dose of AI if you are 15.5 and younger if all you care about is heightmaxing

Thanks, would you recommend anything else/avoiding anything else for pubertycels with heightmaxxing? Or just any precautions?

 

[Vista]

Thanks, would you recommend anything else/avoiding anything else for pubertycels with heightmaxxing? Or just any precautions?

This is almost a cliche but: Diet, Sleep and exercise

Almost nobody gets these right.

1) Use Chronometer to make sure you're getting enough macro/ micronutrients, if not supplement with bioavailable micronutrients , avoid processed foods/ seed oils and avoid eating 3 hours before bed time. Almost everyone is deficent in Vit D + k2, so you should probs be supplementing them at least, and probably zinc, b complex and omega 3. Throne and Nootropics depot are generally good sources. Eat lots of protein.

2) Research sleep hygiene, wake up and go to bed at the same time every night (even weekends), only use your bed for sleep (dont sit on your phone in bed), mag l threonate is a good supplement for sleep (but sleep hygiene/ habits are more important), dont use melatonin.

3) Exercise, going to the gym for 45 minutes a few times per week isn't enough, you need to be exercising every day. Do sprint intervals, medium distance runs, calisthenics and weight training (if you like it). Also do lots of low impact exercise, things like walking, incline walking, swimming, etc.

These three things alone probably enhance you height and quality of life more than anything else.

 

[5.5psl]

Why are you using igf lr3 over hgh ? Is it better than hgh ?

 

[JCaesar]

This is almost a cliche but: Diet, Sleep and exercise

Almost nobody gets these right.

1) Use Chronometer to make sure you're getting enough macro/ micronutrients, if not supplement with bioavailable micronutrients , avoid processed foods/ seed oils and avoid eating 3 hours before bed time. Almost everyone is deficent in Vit D + k2, so you should probs be supplementing them at least, and probably zinc, b complex and omega 3. Throne and Nootropics depot are generally good sources. Eat lots of protein.

2) Research sleep hygiene, wake up and go to bed at the same time every night (even weekends), only use your bed for sleep (dont sit on your phone in bed), mag l threonate is a good supplement for sleep (but sleep hygiene/ habits are more important), dont use melatonin.

3) Exercise, going to the gym for 45 minutes a few times per week isn't enough, you need to be exercising every day. Do sprint intervals, medium distance runs, calisthenics and weight training (if you like it). Also do lots of low impact exercise, things like walking, incline walking, swimming, etc.

These three things alone probably enhance you height and quality of life more than anything else.

Thanks you reminded me of those types of supplements, was trying to get vit d from the sun but tbh it's probably not possible to get the ideal amount without spending hours everyday in sunlight all over your body or at least it seems so.

May I ask if would you recommend taking stuff like ashwagandha or royal gel too? They are said to increase test which I guess would be good for heightmaxxing because of the bones you get growing with it so they are thicker, stronger or more masculine in general?

 

[futureashtray]

Introduction
​

As many of you know ‘heightmaxing’ is a popular topic of discussion on this website, which is no surprise given the importance of height on attractiveness as well as a plethora of other benefits associated with being taller.

I’m sure we’re all familiar with the importance of height, but there is a concerning deficit of information regarding methods and knowledge on how to engender an increase of height.

This shouldn’t come as much of a surprise, since the mechanisms behind increasing your height are very complex and we still don’t know a lot about the subject. Many factors work together to determine height and there is a lot of disagreement in the scientific community on the subject.

The purpose of this guide is to take a relatively simplistic, scientific and easy to understand approach to height maxing, which will hopefully dispel some of the confusion on the subject. The ‘science’ bits will be written in red for those wanting elaboration.

View attachment 2423234

Overview of the mechanisms involved in growing taller​

1) Activation Phase: This is the beginning of bone growth. Cells called chondrocytes (cartilage) come together and proliferate (replicate). They create a blueprint made of cartilage, like a model for the bone to follow.

2) Osteoclast Recruitment and Resorption Phase (Hypertrophy Phase): Chondrocytes grow bigger (hypertrophy) and start turning the cartilage into hard stuff. Think of them as builders laying down the foundation for the bone.

3) Reversal Phase (Osteoblast Phase): A group of cells called osteoblasts moves in. They see the blueprint created by the cartilage and start adding bone on stop.

4) Formation Phase (Calcification Phase): The material the osteoblasts add becomes hard and strong because it calcifies, which is like turning it into concrete. Picture the bone getting denser and stronger.

5) Mineralization Phase (Ossification Phase): This is when the bone really takes shape. More bone cells come in, and they keep building and strengthening the bone, kind of like construction workers finishing a house.

6) Closure Phase (Epiphyseal Plate Closure): During adolescence, special plates at the ends of your long bones, called epiphyseal plates or growth plates, are active and contribute to your height. But once you reach a certain age, usually 15- 17, these plates close up.

View attachment 2423236

During osteoclastogenesis phases 1- 5 are constantly repeating in a loop until the closure phase. ​

The phase in osteoclastogenesis (bone growth) which contributes to enlarging your longitudinal height the most is the activation phase, which starts when you are an embryo and ends with the closure phase.

Now the question becomes: how do I enhance the mechanisms of the activation phase.

Spoiler: What is cell proliferation

During the activation phase cartilage grows through proliferation and differentiation.

Cell proliferation = Cell gets bigger + Cell divides, AKA More cells

View attachment 2423237

For the purpose of heightmaxing, proliferation is one of the important mechanisms that drives height growth.

We need to do everything possible to enhance cell proliferation and cell size in the growth plate.

What we need to do to heightmax

1) Increase cartilage proliferation (replication)
2) Increase cartilage hypertrophy (size)
3) Delay the closure phase

One of the ways we can increase proliferation and hypertrophy is with growth factors (a subset of cytokines).



An Introduction To Growth Factors & Hormones

​

There are some things we can do to increase the proliferation and hypertrophy of cartilage in the growth plate. This is done through bone growth factors, which work through a variety of different mechanisms and pathways.

Known bone growth factors (outside of foetal development) include:

Spoiler: Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1)

• Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) is the most abundant growth factor deposited in the bone matrix and stimulates cell proliferation and function, and survival of osteoblasts.
• There are several reports demonstrating the synergistic effects of IGF-1 and PTH on bone remodelling and establishing the involvement of locally produced IGF-1 in the anabolic effects of PTH

Spoiler: Parathyroid hormone-related peptide (PTHrP and PTH)

• PTH can exert both catabolic and anabolic effects on bone. It is well established that daily injections of low doses of PTH increase bone mass in animals and humans

• Transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β)
  • TGF-β1
  • TGF-β3
    • Sort of a double edged sword, can cause an increase of bone mass but also osteoporosis, it is best to use this as little as possible.

• Fibroblast growth factors (FGF)
  • FGF 1 - 10
  • FGF18
    • Endogenous FGF-2 was found to be necessary for the bone anabolic effects of PTH and BMP-2 in mice

• Platetet- Derived Growth Factor (PDGF)

• Growth Differentiation Factor (GDF)
  • GDF3
  • GDF6
  • GDF10

• Fibroblast Growth Factor (FGF)

Hormones also play a role in height and morphology, a brief overview of which is provided below: ​

• Growth Hormone:
  • Stimulates IGF-1 growth factor AND IGF-1 receptor production. Growth hormone (GH) is a peptide hormone secreted from the pituitary gland under the control of the hypothalamus. It has been reported that both GH-deficient humans and mice have reduced longitudinal bone growth

• Testosterone & DHT:
  
  • Broadens Shoulders & promotes sexual dimorphism. Androgens can also modulate growth plate maturation and closure, and thus affect longitudinal bone growth. In addition, androgens regulate trabecular and cortical bone mass, and inhibit bone loss

• Oestrogen (Estrogen):
  • Causes the hips to widen and become rounded & speed up the rate of Growth Plate fusion (more on this in part 4). Oestrogen is also needed for healthy bones.

• Thyroid Hormones: Thyroid hormones, particularly thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) promote chondrocyte proliferation and the synthesis of collagen and other bone matrix proteins.

Something rarely mentioned in heightmaxing is Growth Factor receptors, growth factor receptors and growth factors as two puzzle pieces, they need each other to work.​

There aren’t many ways to directly increase Growth factor receptors, but some studies suggest that increasing one growth factor can signal others to proliferate.

What this also means is that depending on your specific distribution of growth factor receptors your growth will be somewhat random. People who have more receptors in their legs/ epiphyseal plate will experience more growth in that area than someone with more receptors in their shoulders or nose.

View attachment 2423238

An overview of some of the process' involved promoting bone growth



Applying Growth Factors



​

Primary Growth Factors - Factors that lead to the most growth


IGF-1 (IGF-1 LR3)

One of the most popular growth factors on looksmax for heightmaxing is IGF-1, which granted its price and efficacy should come as no surprise . Another advantage of IGF-1 is that it binds and activates its own receptor.​

​

Among the insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) analogues, the one with the best balance between potency and half life is IGF-1 LR3. It has a half life of between 20-30 hours and a stronger binding affinity than naturally occurring IGF-1​

Growth Hormone (HGH)

Again, a very popular growth factor on this website. Growth hormone (GH) is a peptide hormone secreted from the pituitary gland under the control of the hypothalamus. GH, along with its binding protein (GHBP), regulates growth directly through the GH receptor (GHR) and indirectly by stimulating liver and skeletal IGF-1 expression.​

​

It has been reported that GH stimulates osteoblast proliferation and collagen production either directly and/or indirectly by increasing IGF-1 and IGF binding protein (IGFBP) production​

​

These effects make GH useful, mostly due to its signalling properties and ability to upregulate the number of Growth Hormone receptors. ​

​

While the increase in IGF-1 is also useful, we already know that synthetic IGF-1 analogues like IGF-1 LR3 are more potent, meaning that both GH and IGF-1 LR3 could be used synergistically. ​

PTH

A compound not typically discussed on this forum is Parathyroid hormone.​

​

Parathyroid hormone (PTH), also called parathormone or parathyrin, is a peptide hormone secreted by the parathyroid glands.​

​

As mentioned earlier, PTH and IGF-1 are known to have synergistic effects, therefore it is advantageous to be running both IGF and PTH in the same stack.​

​

View attachment 2423240

Osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs treated with vehicle (-), IGF-1 (50 ng·mL-1), PTH (100 nmol·L-1), or both as assessed by alkaline phosphatase.

We can see that using both IGF and PTF gives us significantly more growth.​

Secondary Growth Factors - Factors That Support Growth

​

Calcitriol

Calcitriol is the biologically active form of vitamin D in the body. It is also known as 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 or simply activated vitamin D. It is up to 1,000 times more potent than vitamin d2 and d3, making it ideal for supporting growth.​

Testosterone & DHT

By far one of the most influential androgens on height and the development of a sexually dimorphic skeleton. The androgen mechanism of action on height is not well understood, but it is known to stimulate longitudinal bone growth as well as radial bone growth, thereby increasing the cortical bone size.​

Lifestyle/ Diet

By far one of the most under looked growth factors is your lifestyle, it is often the easiest and one of the most impactful on your height.​

​

Eating enough food is vital to create the building blocks of hormones/ growth factors, ultimately increasing your height. It has been suggested that in addition to adequate intake of macro and micronutrients (vitamins, minerals, amino acids) intermittent fasting can also be beneficial for raising IGF-1 and increasing insulin sensitivity. Diets high in protein and dairy (not including cheese) were also found to elevate IGF-1.​

​

Adequate sleep, minimal stress and regular exercise are also seen to have positive effects on height.​

​

​

​

​

Delaying Growth Plate Fusion​

​

​

“Oestrogen causes maturation of the growth plate, accelerating skeletal maturation and the accumulation of minerals into the cartilage. Oestrogen also promotes the closure of the physis, stopping the axial growth of the bone. Decreases in total oestrogen or oestrogen receptor sensitivity results in longer bones and tall stature”​

What this means is that oestrogen is one of the driving forces behind signalling the closure phase. One of the ways Oestrogen can be regulated is via a class of drugs called antioestrogens.​

​

Antioestrogens I recommend:

• Exemestane (Aromasin) is relatively easy to get, has a long half life (24 hours), low side effects and decent bioavailability.

• Letrozole has also been shown to delay the fusing of the growth plates in mice. When used in combination with growth hormone, letrozole has been shown effective in one adolescent boy with a short stature. Mice administered with Letrozole were also found to have higher testosterone levels. I recomend cycling Lerozole with Aromasin.

​

Growing Taller​

​

​

​

If you are 15 and over I recommend getting an x- ray done of your epiphyseal plate to confirm whether or not it has fused. Complete fusion of the growth plate most commonly occurs between 15-17 in males (and no, you’re probably not an exception).

If your epiphyseal plate is open great, if not then you can still apply some of these methods to improve your frame. All bones fuse at different times, so even though your epiphyseal plate is sealed your other bones, such as the tibia and collarbone may still be open, allowing you to grow (more on this below).

It is also worth noting that Europeans & Asians have delayed growth compared to Africans and Hispanics, which means that Europeans and Asians undergo bone fusion later (usually 16) compared to as early as 14 in Africans and Hispanics.

If you are considering running a stack make sure that you can commit to running it for at least 6 months, ideally more than a year.

Stacks​

NBA Stack
For maximum height gains, the most expensive and riskiest

IGF-1 LR3​

30 - 50 mcg/every other day, subQ, preferably before bed​

​

HGH​

(Between 0.2 to 0.3 mcg) x bodyweight (kg) = weekly dosage/ 7 = daily dose, inject before bed SubQ​

​

AI​

Exemestane (Aromasin) 25mg/every other day or Letrozole every 4 days at 2.5mg. Depending on how long you plan to run a stack for, I would consider cycling this after more than 4-5 months.​

​

PTH​

Heightmaxing dosage is unknown, though it is clinically used between 25 mcg - 100 mcg everyday, I would recommend going no more than 25 mcg every other day. Inject subQ with IGF-1, before bed.​

While I recommend PTH for people wishing to significantly increase height, its use will require monitoring of blood Vitamin D, Phosphorus and Calcium levels during its use and possible supplementation.​

​

Calcitriol​

0.25- 0.50 mcg/ day, take caution if using with PTH. Watch out for hypercalcemia.​

​

Optional ​

Testosterone: any ester will be fine, though I recommend using Testosterone Propionate or Testosterone Enanthate. For height maxing a high dose of testosterone is not required, although those wishing to influence greater dimorphism may wish to increase the dosage. Do your own research if you plan to use Test.​

​

Run the stack for 4 weeks, take two weeks off, take 0.2mcg/kg HGH daily during off weeks. After 6 months: 4 weeks on, 6 weeks off, 0.2mcg HGH/day (this advice does not factor Test into account).​

​

​

​

Midstack
An affordable stack, best for most people, mild risk

IGF-1 LR3​

50 - 80 mcg/ every other day, subQ, preferably before bed​

​

Vitamin D3 (MK-7) ​

50K IU/ 3 times per week + 2.25mg K2/ with every D3 dose​

[1000 IU D3: 50mcg K2], I also recommend supplementing with magnesium, watch out for hypercalcemia.​

​

AI​

Exemestane (Aromasin) 25mg/every other day or Letrozole every 4 days at 2.5mg. Depending on how long you plan to run a stack for, I would consider cycling this after more than 4-5 months.​

​

​

​

Poorcel
Questionable results on a budget

MK677 ​

35 - 45 mg/day (bedtime) for 4 weeks, then every other day for two weeks at 20mg; repeat. I would also recommend mega dosing P-5-P throughout your cycle to decrease prolactin, especially if you are feeling symptoms of increased prolactin (gyno, decreased libido/mood, etc). For every 4 months on take 1 month off.​

​

AI (optional)​

Exemestane (Aromasin) 25mg/every other day or Letrozole every 4 days at 2.5mg. Depending on how long you plan to run a stack for, I would consider cycling this after more than 4-5 months.​

​

​

​

​

Stack Advise and Warnings​

​

​

For those whose epiphyseal plates are closed and you want to increase your frame, you do not need to run these stacks with the same dosage.​

​

If you are older than 24 do not run any of these stacks (it's already over), as you will probably suffer from Acromegaly.​

​

Users on looksmax also recommend running compounds like mod GRF, hexarelin, CJC, etc. These compounds are all GH secretagogues, meaning they tell your brain to produce more GH, and as we already know administration of IGF-1 analogues like LR3 are far more effective. For this reason I think secretagogues are subpar to IGF/GH and should be avoided (unless you have no choice).​

​

There is still lots of debate around whether exogenous administration of growth factors causes certain cancers, some studies have shown for there to be a correlation, while others have disproved it. Do this at your own risk.​

​

​

​

“Our results do not generally support a carcinogenic effect of r-hGH, but the unexplained trend in cancer mortality risk in relation to GH dose in patients with previous cancer, and the indication of possible effects on bone cancer, bladder cancer and Hodgkin lymphoma risks, need further investigation.” ​

Cancer risks in patients treated with growth hormone in childhood: the SAGhE European cohort study - PMC (nih.gov)​

​

​

Elevated levels of GH/IGF-1 have also been reported to have side effects, most notably swelling of the feet or hands. If this occurs, discontinue use for a few weeks and try again at a lower dosage.​

​

Prior to injecting or taking anything make sure to do your own research on the side effects. Decrease the dosages according to how you feel, everyone tolerates drugs differently.​

​

Long term administration of GH/ IGF-1 has also been found to decrease insulin sensitivity, if you have diabetes or a family history reconsider heightmaxing. Exercise caution after the 4-6 month mark of running a stack, consider taking more time off and monitor your blood sugar.​

​

Stretching exercises/ hanging are also a cope, there is no evidence of any long term height increases.​

​

​

​

​

Lifestyle Changes​

​

​

​

Some lifestyle changes that may contribute to increasing height:

• Eat a high protein diet (ideally >50% daily cal from protein)
• Ensure you get enough nutrients (use https://cronometer.com/), use supplements if you need to, make sure they are bioavailable.
• Eat in a slight surplus, 400 - 600 cal (unless you are obese, lose the weight first and then eat in surplus)
• Incorporate resistance training. For those serious about heightmaxing I would avoid exercises that compress your spine or pose a risk of damaging your joints (squats, deadlifts, OHP), instead opting for callisthenics and sprinting.
  • Bone morphogenetic protein 3 was found to be elevated in fractured tissue (this may include microfractures). BMP3 is an agonist to other BMP’s, which means that more BMP3 = less bone growth (this doesn't mean you shouldn't exercise).
• Diet high in dairy products and calcium
• Sleeping >8 hours/ night consistently
• Some herbal supplements like Tongat Ali, Ashwagnada, etc may be useful for lowering oestrogen/ increasing testosterone; promoting sexual dimorphism.
  • Depending on your situation you may also opt for using herbal supplements to control your oestrogen (delay fusion) and increase GH. The efficacy of these herbs are usually very questionable, and almost all (>90% of online vendors underdose their products).
• Decrease consumption of sugars (fructose, glucose, etc)

Conclusion


While this guide is far from perfect, hopefully I covered enough to help some of you on your heightmaxing journey. Best of luck and thanks for reading.
​

Spoiler: Sources

All this information was revealed to me in a dream

Inb4 greycel​

should i take dht instead of testoserone, or istestoserone fine. i was thibking that if i blast high. amounts of dht/t since im 15 i could get a pornstar bbc type cock

also is a stack of igf1lr3, t/dht, and aromasin fine?
or should i add the parathyroid.

also what are your thoughts on glutosamine and chronditrin

 

[Deleted member 26642]

Completely useless info. It won't do shit just get a job innit

 

[Vista]

Why are you using igf lr3 over hgh ? Is it better than hgh ?

It has been reported that GH stimulates osteoblast proliferation and collagen production either directly and/or indirectly by increasing IGF-1 and IGF binding protein (IGFBP) production

These effects make GH useful, mostly due to its signalling properties and ability to upregulate the number of Growth Hormone receptors.

IGF-1 is the "powerhouse" behind growth, whereas HGH is useful for signalling receptors.

In other words IGF is like "the worker" whereas HGH is like "the manager"

 

[Vista]

should i take dht instead of testoserone, or istestoserone fine. i was thibking that if i blast high. amounts of dht/t since im 15 i could get a pornstar bbc type cock

also is a stack of igf1lr3, t/dht, and aromasin fine?
or should i add the parathyroid.

also what are your thoughts on glutosamine and chronditrin

test and dht ideally

3 or 4 years ago I heard of someone on this forum putting DHT gel on their cock, not sure how that went, but maybe give that a go.

Like I mentioned in the guide, receptors play a huge role in growth, so just because you increase DHT doesn't mean your cock will grow

I recommend pairing growth factors with Penis enhancement, maybe that can increase receptors? Just be careful about hair loss.

Parathyroid hormone will also enhance your gains by about 50%

I have a negative opinion on glucosamine, as it has been shown to induce resistance to IGF-1. chondroitin is good.

 

[GriffithMaxx]

DNR. Just do what I do and eat a lot of your moms food and stay very active.

 

[Vista]

Thanks you reminded me of those types of supplements, was trying to get vit d from the sun but tbh it's probably not possible to get the ideal amount without spending hours everyday in sunlight all over your body or at least it seems so.

May I ask if would you recommend taking stuff like ashwagandha or royal gel too? They are said to increase test which I guess would be good for heightmaxxing because of the bones you get growing with it so they are thicker, stronger or more masculine in general?

anecdotally, the things I have noticed increase my test/ libido have been:

Ashwagandha (shoden), Nootropics depot (ND) has a good one, most Ashwagandha is shit
Tongat Ali, you can get this from ND as well
Zinc Bisglycinate
Vit D + k2
Omega 3 (4g-6g DHA/EPA)

Lots of people also recommend Boron

 

[Osie]

My personal critiques of this awesome thread!:

1. Complete growth plate fusion of all long bones that affect growth rarely happens between the ages of 15-17. The majority of people grow at least 1cm after the age of 17. What's more accurate to say is that majority of males stop seeing any major growth between 15-17!
2. While I do find it interesting and unique that you included PTH and Calcitriol in your heightmaxxing thread, I do feel like they are pretty pointless to include in a stack. 99% of people, no matter how rich they are, will never find a legit source of PTH to inject. And Calcitriol is way too dangerous. It's like an IFBB pro version of Vitamin D3 and D2 combined. There are way too many side effects and you will most likely have to discontinue your whole stack after prolonged use of it.
3. I don't think it's wise to take Letrozole every 4 days is smart as AI does it's best work at reducing E2 when it's used on a consistent basis. Letrozole has only been proven to reduce E2 by around 30-50% in healthy men. Taking it every 4 days will not heavily cut down your E2 levels to the point that it'd be effective for reducing growth plate fusion.
4. Your heightmaxxing stack is not filling up enough pathways to growth. While it's decent and goes decently in depth into the science, it doesn't address the fact that exogenous levels of both IGF-1 and HGH will be suppressed now, thyroid hormones , or DNA methylation (this one is ok not to have but it's still missing).
5. Disclaimer
   IGF LR3 is not a heavily researched compound and is much more dangerous than taking plain old HGH. It isn't something that you can just add into a heightmaxxing stack without a lot of knowledge on how to use it safely. Not really a critique, just something for people reading this thread to think about.

 

[Osie]

It technically will interfere with your natural production as high levels of IGF-1 in the blood suppresses secretion of GHRH and growth hormone., but this shouldn't matter much as you are blasting GH and IGF

Low E can also affect brain development, I personally recommend taking low dose of AI if you are 15.5 and younger if all you care about is heightmaxing

While Low E can develop brain development, it is pretty unknown what low E is for men tbh.
It is very similar to the issue of defining what Low T is because having undetectable e2 levels is still considered normal and healthy in boys until the age of 15.1 (average tanner stage 4 age). Having as low as 10pg/ml of E2 at the age of 18 years and older is also considered healthy as well.

You have to use AI to find out what dosage leads you to low e2 (based on blood tests or how you feel). Taking low-dose AI can be a bit pointless as you don't get your E2 suppressed close enough to the point where you are preventing growth plate closure but you are also having your IGF-1 heavily suppressed as well. It's a lose-lose scenario.

If people are really scared of the side effects of low e2, they should go on Aromasin (only reduced by 38% in men in clinical studies), and get blood tests to see if their e2 is experiencing good enough suppression.

 

[dk7]

no way im reading this wish it was shorter

yeah, and these heightmaxxing threads don't offer nothing new, there's at least a million more of these on .org

 

[Vista]

My personal critiques of this awesome thread!:

1. Complete growth plate fusion of all long bones that affect growth rarely happens between the ages of 15-17. The majority of people grow at least 1cm after the age of 17. What's more accurate to say is that majority of males stop seeing any major growth between 15-17!
2. While I do find it interesting and unique that you included PTH and Calcitriol in your heightmaxxing thread, I do feel like they are pretty pointless to include in a stack. 99% of people, no matter how rich they are, will never find a legit source of PTH to inject. And Calcitriol is way too dangerous. It's like an IFBB pro version of Vitamin D3 and D2 combined. There are way too many side effects and you will most likely have to discontinue your whole stack after prolonged use of it.
3. I don't think it's wise to take Letrozole every 4 days is smart as AI does it's best work at reducing E2 when it's used on a consistent basis. Letrozole has only been proven to reduce E2 by around 30-50% in healthy men. Taking it every 4 days will not heavily cut down your E2 levels to the point that it'd be effective for reducing growth plate fusion.
4. Your heightmaxxing stack is not filling up enough pathways to growth. While it's decent and goes decently in depth into the science, it doesn't address the fact that exogenous levels of both IGF-1 and HGH will be suppressed now, thyroid hormones , or DNA methylation (this one is ok not to have but it's still missing).
5. Disclaimer
   IGF LR3 is not a heavily researched compound and is much more dangerous than taking plain old HGH. It isn't something that you can just add into a heightmaxxing stack without a lot of knowledge on how to use it safely. Not really a critique, just something for people reading this thread to think about.

1) 1cm

2)
https://www.mybiosource.com/pth-active-protein/parathyroid-hormone/142657
https://www.adooq.com/parathyroid-hormone-1-34-human.html

While I do think that calcitriol can be dangerous as long as you take regular blood tests I don't there will be much of an issue. Or just use D3

3) Yes, definitely agree, I tried to strike a balance between reabsorption and formation, but upon further consideration I think its better to err more towards nuking E through frequent dosing of aromasin (like you said in your other comment) as E is mostly anti-resorptive and it doesn't affect males that much (or its effects are unknown).

4) What pathways in specific do you mean? RANKL/RANK/OPG? are you referring to the other phases of bone remodelling? I'm interested to hear what your thoughts are.

I also think it's better to exogenously administer growth factors if your only goal is to maximise height, if endogenous production was enough you probably wouldn't want to grow taller. I also didn't want to go into DNA methylation since I felt that this guide would go on for too long (it already is going on for too long), but yes DNA methylation and suppression of other endogenous growth factors can be a concern with a prolonged cycle.

Thanks for your comment

 

[callisto]

It has been reported that GH stimulates osteoblast proliferation and collagen production either directly and/or indirectly by increasing IGF-1 and IGF binding protein (IGFBP) production

These effects make GH useful, mostly due to its signalling properties and ability to upregulate the number of Growth Hormone receptors.

IGF-1 is the "powerhouse" behind growth, whereas HGH is useful for signalling receptors.

In other words IGF is like "the worker" whereas HGH is like "the manager"

igf1 lr3 doesnt act out rhe "real" effects of igf1.
simply acts dimilar to insulin in the body.
gh is way superior to igf1 analogues as it hits all the pathways needed and more to grow instead of just activating the igf1 pathway

 

[Vista]

igf1 lr3 doesnt act out rhe "real" effects of igf1.
simply acts dimilar to insulin in the body.
gh is way superior to igf1 analogues as it hits all the pathways needed and more to grow instead of just activating the igf1 pathway

Can you elaborate on what u mean by pathways?

 

[coispet]

jfl i remember when everuine on tijtok was thirsting over trumps son

 

[Tyrone06]

yeah, and these heightmaxxing threads don't offer nothing new, there's at least a million more of these on .org

w avatar

 

[dimorphism]

yeah, and these heightmaxxing threads don't offer nothing new, there's at least a million more of these on .org

didn't know about the PTH shit tbh

 

[dimorphism]

I wouldn't take test, only DHT

 

[Deleted member 28722]

Jfl this is the same retard who made a thread on a height stack and thought he grew 2 cm in 8 days

 

[Deleted member 28722]

Can you elaborate on what u mean by pathways?

why are u reccomending teenagers to inject Igf1, an actual synthetic form of igf1 is pretty hard to find. Pathways to growth mean essentially as it literally sounds. Getting the finished product is skipping all the actual steps that lead to the final product you can see how that might fuck things up yeah? Most teenagers won’t have the money for actual height inducing IGF1 doses as if u read a study the amount needed to inject to actually see growth is pretty high and not to
Mention a legit IGF1 is fucking expensive. Trash that part of your thread we have evolved past 2021. Also

The final phase of growth in height - PubMed

Among 221 boys investigated, only 54% had the same (+/- 1 cm) body height at age 27 years as they had at age 19. Longitudinal observations of those boys indicate that the increment from 18 to 27 years is strongly dependent on skeletal maturation and even on such a distant event as age at peak...

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

There’s many different growth charts showing different things, I can pull two numbers out of my ass 15-17.

Different plates close at different times for different people. My brothers plates stayed open til 20 and he grew an inch from 18-20. Lots of things in this thread need to be changed

 

[Deleted member 28722]

1) 1cm

2)
https://www.mybiosource.com/pth-active-protein/parathyroid-hormone/142657
https://www.adooq.com/parathyroid-hormone-1-34-human.html

While I do think that calcitriol can be dangerous as long as you take regular blood tests I don't there will be much of an issue. Or just use D3

3) Yes, definitely agree, I tried to strike a balance between reabsorption and formation, but upon further consideration I think its better to err more towards nuking E through frequent dosing of aromasin (like you said in your other comment) as E is mostly anti-resorptive and it doesn't affect males that much (or its effects are unknown).

4) What pathways in specific do you mean? RANKL/RANK/OPG? are you referring to the other phases of bone remodelling? I'm interested to hear what your thoughts are.

I also think it's better to exogenously administer growth factors if your only goal is to maximise height, if endogenous production was enough you probably wouldn't want to grow taller. I also didn't want to go into DNA methylation since I felt that this guide would go on for too long (it already is going on for too long), but yes DNA methylation and suppression of other endogenous growth factors can be a concern with a prolonged cycle.

Thanks for your comment

1-2cm naturally is what he meant. With encouraging growth using pharmacy aid that can be doubled and at least give an inch after 17, which most people have experienced.
What was the point of sending those sources for PTH? You can see for one of the sources 0.1MG is $485 before shipping and tax, are those sources even legit. PTH isn’t some cheap chemical and the other source is $90 for 1MG Jfl. What the fuck

 

[lightven]

Didn't read but can somebody explain me what it says in a short way.

 

[dk7]

w avatar

thanks bro

 

[mtcut3plush]

you know damn well no one is gonna take all this

 

[futureashtray]

Introduction
​

As many of you know ‘heightmaxing’ is a popular topic of discussion on this website, which is no surprise given the importance of height on attractiveness as well as a plethora of other benefits associated with being taller.

I’m sure we’re all familiar with the importance of height, but there is a concerning deficit of information regarding methods and knowledge on how to engender an increase of height.

This shouldn’t come as much of a surprise, since the mechanisms behind increasing your height are very complex and we still don’t know a lot about the subject. Many factors work together to determine height and there is a lot of disagreement in the scientific community on the subject.

The purpose of this guide is to take a relatively simplistic, scientific and easy to understand approach to height maxing, which will hopefully dispel some of the confusion on the subject. The ‘science’ bits will be written in red for those wanting elaboration.

View attachment 2423234

Overview of the mechanisms involved in growing taller​

1) Activation Phase: This is the beginning of bone growth. Cells called chondrocytes (cartilage) come together and proliferate (replicate). They create a blueprint made of cartilage, like a model for the bone to follow.

2) Osteoclast Recruitment and Resorption Phase (Hypertrophy Phase): Chondrocytes grow bigger (hypertrophy) and start turning the cartilage into hard stuff. Think of them as builders laying down the foundation for the bone.

3) Reversal Phase (Osteoblast Phase): A group of cells called osteoblasts moves in. They see the blueprint created by the cartilage and start adding bone on stop.

4) Formation Phase (Calcification Phase): The material the osteoblasts add becomes hard and strong because it calcifies, which is like turning it into concrete. Picture the bone getting denser and stronger.

5) Mineralization Phase (Ossification Phase): This is when the bone really takes shape. More bone cells come in, and they keep building and strengthening the bone, kind of like construction workers finishing a house.

6) Closure Phase (Epiphyseal Plate Closure): During adolescence, special plates at the ends of your long bones, called epiphyseal plates or growth plates, are active and contribute to your height. But once you reach a certain age, usually 15- 17, these plates close up.

View attachment 2423236

During osteoclastogenesis phases 1- 5 are constantly repeating in a loop until the closure phase. ​

The phase in osteoclastogenesis (bone growth) which contributes to enlarging your longitudinal height the most is the activation phase, which starts when you are an embryo and ends with the closure phase.

Now the question becomes: how do I enhance the mechanisms of the activation phase.

Spoiler: What is cell proliferation

During the activation phase cartilage grows through proliferation and differentiation.

Cell proliferation = Cell gets bigger + Cell divides, AKA More cells

View attachment 2423237

For the purpose of heightmaxing, proliferation is one of the important mechanisms that drives height growth.

We need to do everything possible to enhance cell proliferation and cell size in the growth plate.

What we need to do to heightmax

1) Increase cartilage proliferation (replication)
2) Increase cartilage hypertrophy (size)
3) Delay the closure phase

One of the ways we can increase proliferation and hypertrophy is with growth factors (a subset of cytokines).



An Introduction To Growth Factors & Hormones

​

There are some things we can do to increase the proliferation and hypertrophy of cartilage in the growth plate. This is done through bone growth factors, which work through a variety of different mechanisms and pathways.

Known bone growth factors (outside of foetal development) include:

Spoiler: Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1)

• Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) is the most abundant growth factor deposited in the bone matrix and stimulates cell proliferation and function, and survival of osteoblasts.
• There are several reports demonstrating the synergistic effects of IGF-1 and PTH on bone remodelling and establishing the involvement of locally produced IGF-1 in the anabolic effects of PTH

Spoiler: Parathyroid hormone-related peptide (PTHrP and PTH)

• PTH can exert both catabolic and anabolic effects on bone. It is well established that daily injections of low doses of PTH increase bone mass in animals and humans

• Transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β)
  • TGF-β1
  • TGF-β3
    • Sort of a double edged sword, can cause an increase of bone mass but also osteoporosis, it is best to use this as little as possible.

• Fibroblast growth factors (FGF)
  • FGF 1 - 10
  • FGF18
    • Endogenous FGF-2 was found to be necessary for the bone anabolic effects of PTH and BMP-2 in mice

• Platetet- Derived Growth Factor (PDGF)

• Growth Differentiation Factor (GDF)
  • GDF3
  • GDF6
  • GDF10

• Fibroblast Growth Factor (FGF)

Hormones also play a role in height and morphology, a brief overview of which is provided below: ​

• Growth Hormone:
  • Stimulates IGF-1 growth factor AND IGF-1 receptor production. Growth hormone (GH) is a peptide hormone secreted from the pituitary gland under the control of the hypothalamus. It has been reported that both GH-deficient humans and mice have reduced longitudinal bone growth

• Testosterone & DHT:
  
  • Broadens Shoulders & promotes sexual dimorphism. Androgens can also modulate growth plate maturation and closure, and thus affect longitudinal bone growth. In addition, androgens regulate trabecular and cortical bone mass, and inhibit bone loss

• Oestrogen (Estrogen):
  • Causes the hips to widen and become rounded & speed up the rate of Growth Plate fusion (more on this in part 4). Oestrogen is also needed for healthy bones.

• Thyroid Hormones: Thyroid hormones, particularly thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) promote chondrocyte proliferation and the synthesis of collagen and other bone matrix proteins.

Something rarely mentioned in heightmaxing is Growth Factor receptors, growth factor receptors and growth factors as two puzzle pieces, they need each other to work.​

There aren’t many ways to directly increase Growth factor receptors, but some studies suggest that increasing one growth factor can signal others to proliferate.

What this also means is that depending on your specific distribution of growth factor receptors your growth will be somewhat random. People who have more receptors in their legs/ epiphyseal plate will experience more growth in that area than someone with more receptors in their shoulders or nose.

View attachment 2423238

An overview of some of the process' involved promoting bone growth



Applying Growth Factors



​

Primary Growth Factors - Factors that lead to the most growth


IGF-1 (IGF-1 LR3)

One of the most popular growth factors on looksmax for heightmaxing is IGF-1, which granted its price and efficacy should come as no surprise . Another advantage of IGF-1 is that it binds and activates its own receptor.​

​

Among the insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) analogues, the one with the best balance between potency and half life is IGF-1 LR3. It has a half life of between 20-30 hours and a stronger binding affinity than naturally occurring IGF-1​

Growth Hormone (HGH)

Again, a very popular growth factor on this website. Growth hormone (GH) is a peptide hormone secreted from the pituitary gland under the control of the hypothalamus. GH, along with its binding protein (GHBP), regulates growth directly through the GH receptor (GHR) and indirectly by stimulating liver and skeletal IGF-1 expression.​

​

It has been reported that GH stimulates osteoblast proliferation and collagen production either directly and/or indirectly by increasing IGF-1 and IGF binding protein (IGFBP) production​

​

These effects make GH useful, mostly due to its signalling properties and ability to upregulate the number of Growth Hormone receptors. ​

​

While the increase in IGF-1 is also useful, we already know that synthetic IGF-1 analogues like IGF-1 LR3 are more potent, meaning that both GH and IGF-1 LR3 could be used synergistically. ​

PTH

A compound not typically discussed on this forum is Parathyroid hormone.​

​

Parathyroid hormone (PTH), also called parathormone or parathyrin, is a peptide hormone secreted by the parathyroid glands.​

​

As mentioned earlier, PTH and IGF-1 are known to have synergistic effects, therefore it is advantageous to be running both IGF and PTH in the same stack.​

​

View attachment 2423240

Osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs treated with vehicle (-), IGF-1 (50 ng·mL-1), PTH (100 nmol·L-1), or both as assessed by alkaline phosphatase.

We can see that using both IGF and PTF gives us significantly more growth.​

Secondary Growth Factors - Factors That Support Growth

​

Calcitriol

Calcitriol is the biologically active form of vitamin D in the body. It is also known as 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 or simply activated vitamin D. It is up to 1,000 times more potent than vitamin d2 and d3, making it ideal for supporting growth.​

Testosterone & DHT

By far one of the most influential androgens on height and the development of a sexually dimorphic skeleton. The androgen mechanism of action on height is not well understood, but it is known to stimulate longitudinal bone growth as well as radial bone growth, thereby increasing the cortical bone size.​

Lifestyle/ Diet

By far one of the most under looked growth factors is your lifestyle, it is often the easiest and one of the most impactful on your height.​

​

Eating enough food is vital to create the building blocks of hormones/ growth factors, ultimately increasing your height. It has been suggested that in addition to adequate intake of macro and micronutrients (vitamins, minerals, amino acids) intermittent fasting can also be beneficial for raising IGF-1 and increasing insulin sensitivity. Diets high in protein and dairy (not including cheese) were also found to elevate IGF-1.​

​

Adequate sleep, minimal stress and regular exercise are also seen to have positive effects on height.​

​

​

​

​

Delaying Growth Plate Fusion​

​

​

“Oestrogen causes maturation of the growth plate, accelerating skeletal maturation and the accumulation of minerals into the cartilage. Oestrogen also promotes the closure of the physis, stopping the axial growth of the bone. Decreases in total oestrogen or oestrogen receptor sensitivity results in longer bones and tall stature”​

What this means is that oestrogen is one of the driving forces behind signalling the closure phase. One of the ways Oestrogen can be regulated is via a class of drugs called antioestrogens.​

​

Antioestrogens I recommend:

• Exemestane (Aromasin) is relatively easy to get, has a long half life (24 hours), low side effects and decent bioavailability.

• Letrozole has also been shown to delay the fusing of the growth plates in mice. When used in combination with growth hormone, letrozole has been shown effective in one adolescent boy with a short stature. Mice administered with Letrozole were also found to have higher testosterone levels. I recomend cycling Lerozole with Aromasin.

​

Growing Taller​

​

​

​

If you are 15 and over I recommend getting an x- ray done of your epiphyseal plate to confirm whether or not it has fused. Complete fusion of the growth plate most commonly occurs between 15-17 in males (and no, you’re probably not an exception).

If your epiphyseal plate is open great, if not then you can still apply some of these methods to improve your frame. All bones fuse at different times, so even though your epiphyseal plate is sealed your other bones, such as the tibia and collarbone may still be open, allowing you to grow (more on this below).

It is also worth noting that Europeans & Asians have delayed growth compared to Africans and Hispanics, which means that Europeans and Asians undergo bone fusion later (usually 16) compared to as early as 14 in Africans and Hispanics.

If you are considering running a stack make sure that you can commit to running it for at least 6 months, ideally more than a year.

Stacks​

NBA Stack
For maximum height gains, the most expensive and riskiest

IGF-1 LR3​

30 - 50 mcg/every other day, subQ, preferably before bed​

​

HGH​

(Between 0.2 to 0.3 mcg) x bodyweight (kg) = weekly dosage/ 7 = daily dose, inject before bed SubQ​

​

AI​

Exemestane (Aromasin) 25mg/every other day or Letrozole every 4 days at 2.5mg. Depending on how long you plan to run a stack for, I would consider cycling this after more than 4-5 months.​

​

PTH​

Heightmaxing dosage is unknown, though it is clinically used between 25 mcg - 100 mcg everyday, I would recommend going no more than 25 mcg every other day. Inject subQ with IGF-1, before bed.​

While I recommend PTH for people wishing to significantly increase height, its use will require monitoring of blood Vitamin D, Phosphorus and Calcium levels during its use and possible supplementation.​

​

Calcitriol​

0.25- 0.50 mcg/ day, take caution if using with PTH. Watch out for hypercalcemia.​

​

Optional ​

Testosterone: any ester will be fine, though I recommend using Testosterone Propionate or Testosterone Enanthate. For height maxing a high dose of testosterone is not required, although those wishing to influence greater dimorphism may wish to increase the dosage. Do your own research if you plan to use Test.​

​

Run the stack for 4 weeks, take two weeks off, take 0.2mcg/kg HGH daily during off weeks. After 6 months: 4 weeks on, 6 weeks off, 0.2mcg HGH/day (this advice does not factor Test into account).​

​

​

​

Midstack
An affordable stack, best for most people, mild risk

IGF-1 LR3​

50 - 80 mcg/ every other day, subQ, preferably before bed​

​

Vitamin D3 (MK-7) ​

50K IU/ 3 times per week + 2.25mg K2/ with every D3 dose​

[1000 IU D3: 50mcg K2], I also recommend supplementing with magnesium, watch out for hypercalcemia.​

​

AI​

Exemestane (Aromasin) 25mg/every other day or Letrozole every 4 days at 2.5mg. Depending on how long you plan to run a stack for, I would consider cycling this after more than 4-5 months.​

​

​

​

Poorcel
Questionable results on a budget

MK677 ​

35 - 45 mg/day (bedtime) for 4 weeks, then every other day for two weeks at 20mg; repeat. I would also recommend mega dosing P-5-P throughout your cycle to decrease prolactin, especially if you are feeling symptoms of increased prolactin (gyno, decreased libido/mood, etc). For every 4 months on take 1 month off.​

​

AI (optional)​

Exemestane (Aromasin) 25mg/every other day or Letrozole every 4 days at 2.5mg. Depending on how long you plan to run a stack for, I would consider cycling this after more than 4-5 months.​

​

​

​

​

Stack Advise and Warnings​

​

​

For those whose epiphyseal plates are closed and you want to increase your frame, you do not need to run these stacks with the same dosage.​

​

If you are older than 24 do not run any of these stacks (it's already over), as you will probably suffer from Acromegaly.​

​

Users on looksmax also recommend running compounds like mod GRF, hexarelin, CJC, etc. These compounds are all GH secretagogues, meaning they tell your brain to produce more GH, and as we already know administration of IGF-1 analogues like LR3 are far more effective. For this reason I think secretagogues are subpar to IGF/GH and should be avoided (unless you have no choice).​

​

There is still lots of debate around whether exogenous administration of growth factors causes certain cancers, some studies have shown for there to be a correlation, while others have disproved it. Do this at your own risk.​

​

​

​

“Our results do not generally support a carcinogenic effect of r-hGH, but the unexplained trend in cancer mortality risk in relation to GH dose in patients with previous cancer, and the indication of possible effects on bone cancer, bladder cancer and Hodgkin lymphoma risks, need further investigation.” ​

Cancer risks in patients treated with growth hormone in childhood: the SAGhE European cohort study - PMC (nih.gov)​

​

​

Elevated levels of GH/IGF-1 have also been reported to have side effects, most notably swelling of the feet or hands. If this occurs, discontinue use for a few weeks and try again at a lower dosage.​

​

Prior to injecting or taking anything make sure to do your own research on the side effects. Decrease the dosages according to how you feel, everyone tolerates drugs differently.​

​

Long term administration of GH/ IGF-1 has also been found to decrease insulin sensitivity, if you have diabetes or a family history reconsider heightmaxing. Exercise caution after the 4-6 month mark of running a stack, consider taking more time off and monitor your blood sugar.​

​

Stretching exercises/ hanging are also a cope, there is no evidence of any long term height increases.​

​

​

​

​

Lifestyle Changes​

​

​

​

Some lifestyle changes that may contribute to increasing height:

• Eat a high protein diet (ideally >50% daily cal from protein)
• Ensure you get enough nutrients (use https://cronometer.com/), use supplements if you need to, make sure they are bioavailable.
• Eat in a slight surplus, 400 - 600 cal (unless you are obese, lose the weight first and then eat in surplus)
• Incorporate resistance training. For those serious about heightmaxing I would avoid exercises that compress your spine or pose a risk of damaging your joints (squats, deadlifts, OHP), instead opting for callisthenics and sprinting.
  • Bone morphogenetic protein 3 was found to be elevated in fractured tissue (this may include microfractures). BMP3 is an agonist to other BMP’s, which means that more BMP3 = less bone growth (this doesn't mean you shouldn't exercise).
• Diet high in dairy products and calcium
• Sleeping >8 hours/ night consistently
• Some herbal supplements like Tongat Ali, Ashwagnada, etc may be useful for lowering oestrogen/ increasing testosterone; promoting sexual dimorphism.
  • Depending on your situation you may also opt for using herbal supplements to control your oestrogen (delay fusion) and increase GH. The efficacy of these herbs are usually very questionable, and almost all (>90% of online vendors underdose their products).
• Decrease consumption of sugars (fructose, glucose, etc)

Conclusion


While this guide is far from perfect, hopefully I covered enough to help some of you on your heightmaxing journey. Best of luck and thanks for reading.
​

Spoiler: Sources

All this information was revealed to me in a dream

Inb4 greycel​

Most of the retards here that are arguing are most likely closedgrowthplatecels. But anyways @jackb0y ur idiotic, igf1 is what hgh turns into so it can get proliferate growth plate cartilage, also to the poorcels who are arguing that the stack is too expensive. WORK YOU POOR FAGS JFL, AT BY 17 ILL HAVE A 6”3 FULLY DIMORPHIC FCA ENAND BODY, HUGE COC, WIDE CLAVICLEE, LEAN BODY, WARRIOR SKULL, ETC JFLJFLFJFLFJFL

 

[futureashtray]

you know damn well no one is gonna take all this

Im taking it 100%

 

[mtcut3plush]

Im taking it 100%

if you're rich enough

 

[futureashtray]

if you're rich enough

Blud getting aromasin is cheapest, you could get like 6 bottles of 30 pills for $300. Then testosterone you can get like 500ml for $60-70, pht and igf1 will cost a good amount but where it’s going is that I’ll probably spend $500-1500 each month for probably 6 months. But those 6 month could change my life forever

 

[Napoleon1800]

Will read later but mirin high effort post

 

[Debetro]

@BrahminBoss may I ask you about the impact of sugar in kid and teenager growth? OP advises against eat but I'm pretty sure I've seen something proving the opposite in the Peat forum.

 

[Debetro]

But those 6 month could change my life forever

What are the chances of it getting barely any or none impact?

 

[Napoleon1800]

Most of the retards here that are arguing are most likely closedgrowthplatecels. But anyways @jackb0y ur idiotic, igf1 is what hgh turns into so it can get proliferate growth plate cartilage, also to the poorcels who are arguing that the stack is too expensive. WORK YOU POOR FAGS JFL, AT BY 17 ILL HAVE A 6”3 FULLY DIMORPHIC FCA ENAND BODY, HUGE COC, WIDE CLAVICLEE, LEAN BODY, WARRIOR SKULL, ETC JFLJFLFJFLFJFL

So are you saying igf1 lr3 with ai is better than hgh, ai and ghrp stack or hgh, igf1 lr3 and ai stack? So much different information on Heightmaxxing stacks it's rotting my brain

 

[Napoleon1800]

@BrahminBoss may I ask you about the impact of sugar in kid and teenager growth? OP advises against eat but I'm pretty sure I've seen something proving the opposite in the Peat forum.

Just avoid artificial sugars. Your body needs sugar. Get it fro natural sources like fruits

 

[SubHumanHere]

Introduction
​

As many of you know ‘heightmaxing’ is a popular topic of discussion on this website, which is no surprise given the importance of height on attractiveness as well as a plethora of other benefits associated with being taller.

I’m sure we’re all familiar with the importance of height, but there is a concerning deficit of information regarding methods and knowledge on how to engender an increase of height.

This shouldn’t come as much of a surprise, since the mechanisms behind increasing your height are very complex and we still don’t know a lot about the subject. Many factors work together to determine height and there is a lot of disagreement in the scientific community on the subject.

The purpose of this guide is to take a relatively simplistic, scientific and easy to understand approach to height maxing, which will hopefully dispel some of the confusion on the subject. The ‘science’ bits will be written in red for those wanting elaboration.

View attachment 2423234

Overview of the mechanisms involved in growing taller​

1) Activation Phase: This is the beginning of bone growth. Cells called chondrocytes (cartilage) come together and proliferate (replicate). They create a blueprint made of cartilage, like a model for the bone to follow.

2) Osteoclast Recruitment and Resorption Phase (Hypertrophy Phase): Chondrocytes grow bigger (hypertrophy) and start turning the cartilage into hard stuff. Think of them as builders laying down the foundation for the bone.

3) Reversal Phase (Osteoblast Phase): A group of cells called osteoblasts moves in. They see the blueprint created by the cartilage and start adding bone on stop.

4) Formation Phase (Calcification Phase): The material the osteoblasts add becomes hard and strong because it calcifies, which is like turning it into concrete. Picture the bone getting denser and stronger.

5) Mineralization Phase (Ossification Phase): This is when the bone really takes shape. More bone cells come in, and they keep building and strengthening the bone, kind of like construction workers finishing a house.

6) Closure Phase (Epiphyseal Plate Closure): During adolescence, special plates at the ends of your long bones, called epiphyseal plates or growth plates, are active and contribute to your height. But once you reach a certain age, usually 15- 17, these plates close up.

View attachment 2423236

During osteoclastogenesis phases 1- 5 are constantly repeating in a loop until the closure phase. ​

The phase in osteoclastogenesis (bone growth) which contributes to enlarging your longitudinal height the most is the activation phase, which starts when you are an embryo and ends with the closure phase.

Now the question becomes: how do I enhance the mechanisms of the activation phase.

Spoiler: What is cell proliferation

During the activation phase cartilage grows through proliferation and differentiation.

Cell proliferation = Cell gets bigger + Cell divides, AKA More cells

View attachment 2423237

For the purpose of heightmaxing, proliferation is one of the important mechanisms that drives height growth.

We need to do everything possible to enhance cell proliferation and cell size in the growth plate.

What we need to do to heightmax

1) Increase cartilage proliferation (replication)
2) Increase cartilage hypertrophy (size)
3) Delay the closure phase

One of the ways we can increase proliferation and hypertrophy is with growth factors (a subset of cytokines).



An Introduction To Growth Factors & Hormones

​

There are some things we can do to increase the proliferation and hypertrophy of cartilage in the growth plate. This is done through bone growth factors, which work through a variety of different mechanisms and pathways.

Known bone growth factors (outside of foetal development) include:

Spoiler: Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1)

• Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) is the most abundant growth factor deposited in the bone matrix and stimulates cell proliferation and function, and survival of osteoblasts.
• There are several reports demonstrating the synergistic effects of IGF-1 and PTH on bone remodelling and establishing the involvement of locally produced IGF-1 in the anabolic effects of PTH

Spoiler: Parathyroid hormone-related peptide (PTHrP and PTH)

• PTH can exert both catabolic and anabolic effects on bone. It is well established that daily injections of low doses of PTH increase bone mass in animals and humans

• Transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β)
  • TGF-β1
  • TGF-β3
    • Sort of a double edged sword, can cause an increase of bone mass but also osteoporosis, it is best to use this as little as possible.

• Fibroblast growth factors (FGF)
  • FGF 1 - 10
  • FGF18
    • Endogenous FGF-2 was found to be necessary for the bone anabolic effects of PTH and BMP-2 in mice

• Platetet- Derived Growth Factor (PDGF)

• Growth Differentiation Factor (GDF)
  • GDF3
  • GDF6
  • GDF10

• Fibroblast Growth Factor (FGF)

Hormones also play a role in height and morphology, a brief overview of which is provided below: ​

• Growth Hormone:
  • Stimulates IGF-1 growth factor AND IGF-1 receptor production. Growth hormone (GH) is a peptide hormone secreted from the pituitary gland under the control of the hypothalamus. It has been reported that both GH-deficient humans and mice have reduced longitudinal bone growth

• Testosterone & DHT:
  
  • Broadens Shoulders & promotes sexual dimorphism. Androgens can also modulate growth plate maturation and closure, and thus affect longitudinal bone growth. In addition, androgens regulate trabecular and cortical bone mass, and inhibit bone loss

• Oestrogen (Estrogen):
  • Causes the hips to widen and become rounded & speed up the rate of Growth Plate fusion (more on this in part 4). Oestrogen is also needed for healthy bones.

• Thyroid Hormones: Thyroid hormones, particularly thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) promote chondrocyte proliferation and the synthesis of collagen and other bone matrix proteins.

Something rarely mentioned in heightmaxing is Growth Factor receptors, growth factor receptors and growth factors as two puzzle pieces, they need each other to work.​

There aren’t many ways to directly increase Growth factor receptors, but some studies suggest that increasing one growth factor can signal others to proliferate.

What this also means is that depending on your specific distribution of growth factor receptors your growth will be somewhat random. People who have more receptors in their legs/ epiphyseal plate will experience more growth in that area than someone with more receptors in their shoulders or nose.

View attachment 2423238

An overview of some of the process' involved promoting bone growth



Applying Growth Factors



​

Primary Growth Factors - Factors that lead to the most growth


IGF-1 (IGF-1 LR3)

One of the most popular growth factors on looksmax for heightmaxing is IGF-1, which granted its price and efficacy should come as no surprise . Another advantage of IGF-1 is that it binds and activates its own receptor.​

​

Among the insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) analogues, the one with the best balance between potency and half life is IGF-1 LR3. It has a half life of between 20-30 hours and a stronger binding affinity than naturally occurring IGF-1​

Growth Hormone (HGH)

Again, a very popular growth factor on this website. Growth hormone (GH) is a peptide hormone secreted from the pituitary gland under the control of the hypothalamus. GH, along with its binding protein (GHBP), regulates growth directly through the GH receptor (GHR) and indirectly by stimulating liver and skeletal IGF-1 expression.​

​

It has been reported that GH stimulates osteoblast proliferation and collagen production either directly and/or indirectly by increasing IGF-1 and IGF binding protein (IGFBP) production​

​

These effects make GH useful, mostly due to its signalling properties and ability to upregulate the number of Growth Hormone receptors. ​

​

While the increase in IGF-1 is also useful, we already know that synthetic IGF-1 analogues like IGF-1 LR3 are more potent, meaning that both GH and IGF-1 LR3 could be used synergistically. ​

PTH

A compound not typically discussed on this forum is Parathyroid hormone.​

​

Parathyroid hormone (PTH), also called parathormone or parathyrin, is a peptide hormone secreted by the parathyroid glands.​

​

As mentioned earlier, PTH and IGF-1 are known to have synergistic effects, therefore it is advantageous to be running both IGF and PTH in the same stack.​

​

View attachment 2423240

Osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs treated with vehicle (-), IGF-1 (50 ng·mL-1), PTH (100 nmol·L-1), or both as assessed by alkaline phosphatase.

We can see that using both IGF and PTF gives us significantly more growth.​

Secondary Growth Factors - Factors That Support Growth

​

Calcitriol

Calcitriol is the biologically active form of vitamin D in the body. It is also known as 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 or simply activated vitamin D. It is up to 1,000 times more potent than vitamin d2 and d3, making it ideal for supporting growth.​

Testosterone & DHT

By far one of the most influential androgens on height and the development of a sexually dimorphic skeleton. The androgen mechanism of action on height is not well understood, but it is known to stimulate longitudinal bone growth as well as radial bone growth, thereby increasing the cortical bone size.​

Lifestyle/ Diet

By far one of the most under looked growth factors is your lifestyle, it is often the easiest and one of the most impactful on your height.​

​

Eating enough food is vital to create the building blocks of hormones/ growth factors, ultimately increasing your height. It has been suggested that in addition to adequate intake of macro and micronutrients (vitamins, minerals, amino acids) intermittent fasting can also be beneficial for raising IGF-1 and increasing insulin sensitivity. Diets high in protein and dairy (not including cheese) were also found to elevate IGF-1.​

​

Adequate sleep, minimal stress and regular exercise are also seen to have positive effects on height.​

​

​

​

​

Delaying Growth Plate Fusion​

​

​

“Oestrogen causes maturation of the growth plate, accelerating skeletal maturation and the accumulation of minerals into the cartilage. Oestrogen also promotes the closure of the physis, stopping the axial growth of the bone. Decreases in total oestrogen or oestrogen receptor sensitivity results in longer bones and tall stature”​

What this means is that oestrogen is one of the driving forces behind signalling the closure phase. One of the ways Oestrogen can be regulated is via a class of drugs called antioestrogens.​

​

Antioestrogens I recommend:

• Exemestane (Aromasin) is relatively easy to get, has a long half life (24 hours), low side effects and decent bioavailability.

• Letrozole has also been shown to delay the fusing of the growth plates in mice. When used in combination with growth hormone, letrozole has been shown effective in one adolescent boy with a short stature. Mice administered with Letrozole were also found to have higher testosterone levels. I recomend cycling Lerozole with Aromasin.

​

Growing Taller​

​

​

​

If you are 15 and over I recommend getting an x- ray done of your epiphyseal plate to confirm whether or not it has fused. Complete fusion of the growth plate most commonly occurs between 15-17 in males (and no, you’re probably not an exception).

If your epiphyseal plate is open great, if not then you can still apply some of these methods to improve your frame. All bones fuse at different times, so even though your epiphyseal plate is sealed your other bones, such as the tibia and collarbone may still be open, allowing you to grow (more on this below).

It is also worth noting that Europeans & Asians have delayed growth compared to Africans and Hispanics, which means that Europeans and Asians undergo bone fusion later (usually 16) compared to as early as 14 in Africans and Hispanics.

If you are considering running a stack make sure that you can commit to running it for at least 6 months, ideally more than a year.

Stacks​

NBA Stack
For maximum height gains, the most expensive and riskiest

IGF-1 LR3​

30 - 50 mcg/every other day, subQ, preferably before bed​

​

HGH​

(Between 0.2 to 0.3 mcg) x bodyweight (kg) = weekly dosage/ 7 = daily dose, inject before bed SubQ​

​

AI​

Exemestane (Aromasin) 25mg/every other day or Letrozole every 4 days at 2.5mg. Depending on how long you plan to run a stack for, I would consider cycling this after more than 4-5 months.​

​

PTH​

Heightmaxing dosage is unknown, though it is clinically used between 25 mcg - 100 mcg everyday, I would recommend going no more than 25 mcg every other day. Inject subQ with IGF-1, before bed.​

While I recommend PTH for people wishing to significantly increase height, its use will require monitoring of blood Vitamin D, Phosphorus and Calcium levels during its use and possible supplementation.​

​

Calcitriol​

0.25- 0.50 mcg/ day, take caution if using with PTH. Watch out for hypercalcemia.​

​

Optional ​

Testosterone: any ester will be fine, though I recommend using Testosterone Propionate or Testosterone Enanthate. For height maxing a high dose of testosterone is not required, although those wishing to influence greater dimorphism may wish to increase the dosage. Do your own research if you plan to use Test.​

​

Run the stack for 4 weeks, take two weeks off, take 0.2mcg/kg HGH daily during off weeks. After 6 months: 4 weeks on, 6 weeks off, 0.2mcg HGH/day (this advice does not factor Test into account).​

​

​

​

Midstack
An affordable stack, best for most people, mild risk

IGF-1 LR3​

50 - 80 mcg/ every other day, subQ, preferably before bed​

​

Vitamin D3 (MK-7) ​

50K IU/ 3 times per week + 2.25mg K2/ with every D3 dose​

[1000 IU D3: 50mcg K2], I also recommend supplementing with magnesium, watch out for hypercalcemia.​

​

AI​

Exemestane (Aromasin) 25mg/every other day or Letrozole every 4 days at 2.5mg. Depending on how long you plan to run a stack for, I would consider cycling this after more than 4-5 months.​

​

​

​

Poorcel
Questionable results on a budget

MK677 ​

35 - 45 mg/day (bedtime) for 4 weeks, then every other day for two weeks at 20mg; repeat. I would also recommend mega dosing P-5-P throughout your cycle to decrease prolactin, especially if you are feeling symptoms of increased prolactin (gyno, decreased libido/mood, etc). For every 4 months on take 1 month off.​

​

AI (optional)​

Exemestane (Aromasin) 25mg/every other day or Letrozole every 4 days at 2.5mg. Depending on how long you plan to run a stack for, I would consider cycling this after more than 4-5 months.​

​

​

​

​

Stack Advise and Warnings​

​

​

For those whose epiphyseal plates are closed and you want to increase your frame, you do not need to run these stacks with the same dosage.​

​

If you are older than 24 do not run any of these stacks (it's already over), as you will probably suffer from Acromegaly.​

​

Users on looksmax also recommend running compounds like mod GRF, hexarelin, CJC, etc. These compounds are all GH secretagogues, meaning they tell your brain to produce more GH, and as we already know administration of IGF-1 analogues like LR3 are far more effective. For this reason I think secretagogues are subpar to IGF/GH and should be avoided (unless you have no choice).​

​

There is still lots of debate around whether exogenous administration of growth factors causes certain cancers, some studies have shown for there to be a correlation, while others have disproved it. Do this at your own risk.​

​

​

​

“Our results do not generally support a carcinogenic effect of r-hGH, but the unexplained trend in cancer mortality risk in relation to GH dose in patients with previous cancer, and the indication of possible effects on bone cancer, bladder cancer and Hodgkin lymphoma risks, need further investigation.” ​

Cancer risks in patients treated with growth hormone in childhood: the SAGhE European cohort study - PMC (nih.gov)​

​

​

Elevated levels of GH/IGF-1 have also been reported to have side effects, most notably swelling of the feet or hands. If this occurs, discontinue use for a few weeks and try again at a lower dosage.​

​

Prior to injecting or taking anything make sure to do your own research on the side effects. Decrease the dosages according to how you feel, everyone tolerates drugs differently.​

​

Long term administration of GH/ IGF-1 has also been found to decrease insulin sensitivity, if you have diabetes or a family history reconsider heightmaxing. Exercise caution after the 4-6 month mark of running a stack, consider taking more time off and monitor your blood sugar.​

​

Stretching exercises/ hanging are also a cope, there is no evidence of any long term height increases.​

​

​

​

​

Lifestyle Changes​

​

​

​

Some lifestyle changes that may contribute to increasing height:

• Eat a high protein diet (ideally >50% daily cal from protein)
• Ensure you get enough nutrients (use https://cronometer.com/), use supplements if you need to, make sure they are bioavailable.
• Eat in a slight surplus, 400 - 600 cal (unless you are obese, lose the weight first and then eat in surplus)
• Incorporate resistance training. For those serious about heightmaxing I would avoid exercises that compress your spine or pose a risk of damaging your joints (squats, deadlifts, OHP), instead opting for callisthenics and sprinting.
  • Bone morphogenetic protein 3 was found to be elevated in fractured tissue (this may include microfractures). BMP3 is an agonist to other BMP’s, which means that more BMP3 = less bone growth (this doesn't mean you shouldn't exercise).
• Diet high in dairy products and calcium
• Sleeping >8 hours/ night consistently
• Some herbal supplements like Tongat Ali, Ashwagnada, etc may be useful for lowering oestrogen/ increasing testosterone; promoting sexual dimorphism.
  • Depending on your situation you may also opt for using herbal supplements to control your oestrogen (delay fusion) and increase GH. The efficacy of these herbs are usually very questionable, and almost all (>90% of online vendors underdose their products).
• Decrease consumption of sugars (fructose, glucose, etc)

Conclusion


While this guide is far from perfect, hopefully I covered enough to help some of you on your heightmaxing journey. Best of luck and thanks for reading.
​

Spoiler: Sources

All this information was revealed to me in a dream

Inb4 greycel​

Greycel at it again, mirin high iq thread.

 

[futureashtray]

What are the chances of it getting barely any or none impact?

Depends how old you are, I’m 15 so my chances are pretty high, and I’m still not as tall as my dad or grandpa

 

[futureashtray]

So are you saying igf1 lr3 with ai is better than hgh, ai and ghrp stack or hgh, igf1 lr3 and ai stack? So much different information on Heightmaxxing stacks it's rotting my brain

Hgh and ghrp are to increase hgh, igf1 is what hgh turns into to proliferate growth plate cartilage. And igf1 lr3 is a more potent form of igf1. It stays in the bloodstream way longer and doesn’t bind to igf binding proteins like normal igf1 would. Also I’m most likely going to be applying mechanical stres on my bones also because of Wolffs law at the same time, I’m 5”9 my dad is 5”11 and I want to grow to atleast 6”3-6. And also since I’m going to take testosterone/dht I’ll 100% have a bigger coc, wider clavicles, etc

 

[futureashtray]

test and dht ideally

3 or 4 years ago I heard of someone on this forum putting DHT gel on their cock, not sure how that went, but maybe give that a go.

Like I mentioned in the guide, receptors play a huge role in growth, so just because you increase DHT doesn't mean your cock will grow

I recommend pairing growth factors with Penis enhancement, maybe that can increase receptors? Just be careful about hair loss.

Parathyroid hormone will also enhance your gains by about 50%

I have a negative opinion on glucosamine, as it has been shown to induce resistance to IGF-1. chondroitin is good.

Do you have any dht sources? I have testoserone and aromasin sources if you want to trade, my sources are legit and trusted not that testoserone from some untrusted company or that random aromasin with random russian writing

 

[restonsleek]

How much testosterone should I use?

 

[Deleted member 28722]

Most of the retards here that are arguing are most likely closedgrowthplatecels. But anyways @jackb0y ur idiotic, igf1 is what hgh turns into so it can get proliferate growth plate cartilage, also to the poorcels who are arguing that the stack is too expensive. WORK YOU POOR FAGS JFL, AT BY 17 ILL HAVE A 6”3 FULLY DIMORPHIC FCA ENAND BODY, HUGE COC, WIDE CLAVICLEE, LEAN BODY, WARRIOR SKULL, ETC JFLJFLFJFLFJFL

Jfl. This is why we don’t let retards on the internet. Listen Buddy. IGF1 is the finished product but you lose gains when you don’t let it convert from HGH. Maybe read some studies on the shit before coming on the topic with a literal Wikipedia understanding. The doses to encourage height growth with straight IGF1 is something you won’t be running. 2. IGF1 without understanding how to cycle it can desensitize ur IGF1 receptors, and cause growth in places you don’t want, experts still don’t know IF IGF1-LR3 causes local growth, or it causes growth in the whole body yet…. It’s barely studied at all and there’s evidence to support both.

 

[Deleted member 28722]

Most of the retards here that are arguing are most likely closedgrowthplatecels. But anyways @jackb0y ur idiotic, igf1 is what hgh turns into so it can get proliferate growth plate cartilage, also to the poorcels who are arguing that the stack is too expensive. WORK YOU POOR FAGS JFL, AT BY 17 ILL HAVE A 6”3 FULLY DIMORPHIC FCA ENAND BODY, HUGE COC, WIDE CLAVICLEE, LEAN BODY, WARRIOR SKULL, ETC JFLJFLFJFLFJFL

You would think if IGF1 is such a halo drug they would already be prescribing it to kids with ISS… but they aren’t . Anyways keep coping. Also basing it off ur dads height is kinda irrelevant, a good indicator of ur final height should be 4-5 inches taller than your mother people are starting to find out now

 

[letsdoit]

@Osie Read this brother

 

[yek]

You would think if IGF1 is such a halo drug they would already be prescribing it to kids with ISS… but they aren’t . Anyways keep coping. Also basing it off ur dads height is kinda irrelevant, a good indicator of ur final height should be 4-5 inches taller than your mother people are starting to find out now

hey man, if i run 12.5mg aromasin, dht, and hgh 5iu daily with open plates, i should grow and it would keep my plates open? is this a decent stack? i can afford a lot so lmk ab anything

 

[iam good boy]

Introduction
​

As many of you know ‘heightmaxing’ is a popular topic of discussion on this website, which is no surprise given the importance of height on attractiveness as well as a plethora of other benefits associated with being taller.

I’m sure we’re all familiar with the importance of height, but there is a concerning deficit of information regarding methods and knowledge on how to engender an increase of height.

This shouldn’t come as much of a surprise, since the mechanisms behind increasing your height are very complex and we still don’t know a lot about the subject. Many factors work together to determine height and there is a lot of disagreement in the scientific community on the subject.

The purpose of this guide is to take a relatively simplistic, scientific and easy to understand approach to height maxing, which will hopefully dispel some of the confusion on the subject. The ‘science’ bits will be written in red for those wanting elaboration.

View attachment 2423234

Overview of the mechanisms involved in growing taller​

1) Activation Phase: This is the beginning of bone growth. Cells called chondrocytes (cartilage) come together and proliferate (replicate). They create a blueprint made of cartilage, like a model for the bone to follow.

2) Osteoclast Recruitment and Resorption Phase (Hypertrophy Phase): Chondrocytes grow bigger (hypertrophy) and start turning the cartilage into hard stuff. Think of them as builders laying down the foundation for the bone.

3) Reversal Phase (Osteoblast Phase): A group of cells called osteoblasts moves in. They see the blueprint created by the cartilage and start adding bone on stop.

4) Formation Phase (Calcification Phase): The material the osteoblasts add becomes hard and strong because it calcifies, which is like turning it into concrete. Picture the bone getting denser and stronger.

5) Mineralization Phase (Ossification Phase): This is when the bone really takes shape. More bone cells come in, and they keep building and strengthening the bone, kind of like construction workers finishing a house.

6) Closure Phase (Epiphyseal Plate Closure): During adolescence, special plates at the ends of your long bones, called epiphyseal plates or growth plates, are active and contribute to your height. But once you reach a certain age, usually 15- 17, these plates close up.

View attachment 2423236

During osteoclastogenesis phases 1- 5 are constantly repeating in a loop until the closure phase. ​

The phase in osteoclastogenesis (bone growth) which contributes to enlarging your longitudinal height the most is the activation phase, which starts when you are an embryo and ends with the closure phase.

Now the question becomes: how do I enhance the mechanisms of the activation phase.

Spoiler: What is cell proliferation

During the activation phase cartilage grows through proliferation and differentiation.

Cell proliferation = Cell gets bigger + Cell divides, AKA More cells

View attachment 2423237

For the purpose of heightmaxing, proliferation is one of the important mechanisms that drives height growth.

We need to do everything possible to enhance cell proliferation and cell size in the growth plate.

What we need to do to heightmax

1) Increase cartilage proliferation (replication)
2) Increase cartilage hypertrophy (size)
3) Delay the closure phase

One of the ways we can increase proliferation and hypertrophy is with growth factors (a subset of cytokines).



An Introduction To Growth Factors & Hormones

​

There are some things we can do to increase the proliferation and hypertrophy of cartilage in the growth plate. This is done through bone growth factors, which work through a variety of different mechanisms and pathways.

Known bone growth factors (outside of foetal development) include:

Spoiler: Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1)

• Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) is the most abundant growth factor deposited in the bone matrix and stimulates cell proliferation and function, and survival of osteoblasts.
• There are several reports demonstrating the synergistic effects of IGF-1 and PTH on bone remodelling and establishing the involvement of locally produced IGF-1 in the anabolic effects of PTH

Spoiler: Parathyroid hormone-related peptide (PTHrP and PTH)

• PTH can exert both catabolic and anabolic effects on bone. It is well established that daily injections of low doses of PTH increase bone mass in animals and humans

• Transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β)
  • TGF-β1
  • TGF-β3
    • Sort of a double edged sword, can cause an increase of bone mass but also osteoporosis, it is best to use this as little as possible.

• Fibroblast growth factors (FGF)
  • FGF 1 - 10
  • FGF18
    • Endogenous FGF-2 was found to be necessary for the bone anabolic effects of PTH and BMP-2 in mice

• Platetet- Derived Growth Factor (PDGF)

• Growth Differentiation Factor (GDF)
  • GDF3
  • GDF6
  • GDF10

• Fibroblast Growth Factor (FGF)

Hormones also play a role in height and morphology, a brief overview of which is provided below: ​

• Growth Hormone:
  • Stimulates IGF-1 growth factor AND IGF-1 receptor production. Growth hormone (GH) is a peptide hormone secreted from the pituitary gland under the control of the hypothalamus. It has been reported that both GH-deficient humans and mice have reduced longitudinal bone growth

• Testosterone & DHT:
  
  • Broadens Shoulders & promotes sexual dimorphism. Androgens can also modulate growth plate maturation and closure, and thus affect longitudinal bone growth. In addition, androgens regulate trabecular and cortical bone mass, and inhibit bone loss

• Oestrogen (Estrogen):
  • Causes the hips to widen and become rounded & speed up the rate of Growth Plate fusion (more on this in part 4). Oestrogen is also needed for healthy bones.

• Thyroid Hormones: Thyroid hormones, particularly thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) promote chondrocyte proliferation and the synthesis of collagen and other bone matrix proteins.

Something rarely mentioned in heightmaxing is Growth Factor receptors, growth factor receptors and growth factors as two puzzle pieces, they need each other to work.​

There aren’t many ways to directly increase Growth factor receptors, but some studies suggest that increasing one growth factor can signal others to proliferate.

What this also means is that depending on your specific distribution of growth factor receptors your growth will be somewhat random. People who have more receptors in their legs/ epiphyseal plate will experience more growth in that area than someone with more receptors in their shoulders or nose.

View attachment 2423238

An overview of some of the process' involved promoting bone growth



Applying Growth Factors



​

Primary Growth Factors - Factors that lead to the most growth


IGF-1 (IGF-1 LR3)

One of the most popular growth factors on looksmax for heightmaxing is IGF-1, which granted its price and efficacy should come as no surprise . Another advantage of IGF-1 is that it binds and activates its own receptor.​

​

Among the insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) analogues, the one with the best balance between potency and half life is IGF-1 LR3. It has a half life of between 20-30 hours and a stronger binding affinity than naturally occurring IGF-1​

Growth Hormone (HGH)

Again, a very popular growth factor on this website. Growth hormone (GH) is a peptide hormone secreted from the pituitary gland under the control of the hypothalamus. GH, along with its binding protein (GHBP), regulates growth directly through the GH receptor (GHR) and indirectly by stimulating liver and skeletal IGF-1 expression.​

​

It has been reported that GH stimulates osteoblast proliferation and collagen production either directly and/or indirectly by increasing IGF-1 and IGF binding protein (IGFBP) production​

​

These effects make GH useful, mostly due to its signalling properties and ability to upregulate the number of Growth Hormone receptors. ​

​

While the increase in IGF-1 is also useful, we already know that synthetic IGF-1 analogues like IGF-1 LR3 are more potent, meaning that both GH and IGF-1 LR3 could be used synergistically. ​

PTH

A compound not typically discussed on this forum is Parathyroid hormone.​

​

Parathyroid hormone (PTH), also called parathormone or parathyrin, is a peptide hormone secreted by the parathyroid glands.​

​

As mentioned earlier, PTH and IGF-1 are known to have synergistic effects, therefore it is advantageous to be running both IGF and PTH in the same stack.​

​

View attachment 2423240

Osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs treated with vehicle (-), IGF-1 (50 ng·mL-1), PTH (100 nmol·L-1), or both as assessed by alkaline phosphatase.

We can see that using both IGF and PTF gives us significantly more growth.​

Secondary Growth Factors - Factors That Support Growth

​

Calcitriol

Calcitriol is the biologically active form of vitamin D in the body. It is also known as 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 or simply activated vitamin D. It is up to 1,000 times more potent than vitamin d2 and d3, making it ideal for supporting growth.​

Testosterone & DHT

By far one of the most influential androgens on height and the development of a sexually dimorphic skeleton. The androgen mechanism of action on height is not well understood, but it is known to stimulate longitudinal bone growth as well as radial bone growth, thereby increasing the cortical bone size.​

Lifestyle/ Diet

By far one of the most under looked growth factors is your lifestyle, it is often the easiest and one of the most impactful on your height.​

​

Eating enough food is vital to create the building blocks of hormones/ growth factors, ultimately increasing your height. It has been suggested that in addition to adequate intake of macro and micronutrients (vitamins, minerals, amino acids) intermittent fasting can also be beneficial for raising IGF-1 and increasing insulin sensitivity. Diets high in protein and dairy (not including cheese) were also found to elevate IGF-1.​

​

Adequate sleep, minimal stress and regular exercise are also seen to have positive effects on height.​

​

​

​

​

Delaying Growth Plate Fusion​

​

​

“Oestrogen causes maturation of the growth plate, accelerating skeletal maturation and the accumulation of minerals into the cartilage. Oestrogen also promotes the closure of the physis, stopping the axial growth of the bone. Decreases in total oestrogen or oestrogen receptor sensitivity results in longer bones and tall stature”​

What this means is that oestrogen is one of the driving forces behind signalling the closure phase. One of the ways Oestrogen can be regulated is via a class of drugs called antioestrogens.​

​

Antioestrogens I recommend:

• Exemestane (Aromasin) is relatively easy to get, has a long half life (24 hours), low side effects and decent bioavailability.

• Letrozole has also been shown to delay the fusing of the growth plates in mice. When used in combination with growth hormone, letrozole has been shown effective in one adolescent boy with a short stature. Mice administered with Letrozole were also found to have higher testosterone levels. I recomend cycling Lerozole with Aromasin.

​

Growing Taller​

​

​

​

If you are 15 and over I recommend getting an x- ray done of your epiphyseal plate to confirm whether or not it has fused. Complete fusion of the growth plate most commonly occurs between 15-17 in males (and no, you’re probably not an exception).

If your epiphyseal plate is open great, if not then you can still apply some of these methods to improve your frame. All bones fuse at different times, so even though your epiphyseal plate is sealed your other bones, such as the tibia and collarbone may still be open, allowing you to grow (more on this below).

It is also worth noting that Europeans & Asians have delayed growth compared to Africans and Hispanics, which means that Europeans and Asians undergo bone fusion later (usually 16) compared to as early as 14 in Africans and Hispanics.

If you are considering running a stack make sure that you can commit to running it for at least 6 months, ideally more than a year.

Stacks​

NBA Stack
For maximum height gains, the most expensive and riskiest

IGF-1 LR3​

30 - 50 mcg/every other day, subQ, preferably before bed​

​

HGH​

(Between 0.2 to 0.3 mcg) x bodyweight (kg) = weekly dosage/ 7 = daily dose, inject before bed SubQ​

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AI​

Exemestane (Aromasin) 25mg/every other day or Letrozole every 4 days at 2.5mg. Depending on how long you plan to run a stack for, I would consider cycling this after more than 4-5 months.​

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PTH​

Heightmaxing dosage is unknown, though it is clinically used between 25 mcg - 100 mcg everyday, I would recommend going no more than 25 mcg every other day. Inject subQ with IGF-1, before bed.​

While I recommend PTH for people wishing to significantly increase height, its use will require monitoring of blood Vitamin D, Phosphorus and Calcium levels during its use and possible supplementation.​

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Calcitriol​

0.25- 0.50 mcg/ day, take caution if using with PTH. Watch out for hypercalcemia.​

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Optional ​

Testosterone: any ester will be fine, though I recommend using Testosterone Propionate or Testosterone Enanthate. For height maxing a high dose of testosterone is not required, although those wishing to influence greater dimorphism may wish to increase the dosage. Do your own research if you plan to use Test.​

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Run the stack for 4 weeks, take two weeks off, take 0.2mcg/kg HGH daily during off weeks. After 6 months: 4 weeks on, 6 weeks off, 0.2mcg HGH/day (this advice does not factor Test into account).​

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Midstack
An affordable stack, best for most people, mild risk

IGF-1 LR3​

50 - 80 mcg/ every other day, subQ, preferably before bed​

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Vitamin D3 (MK-7) ​

50K IU/ 3 times per week + 2.25mg K2/ with every D3 dose​

[1000 IU D3: 50mcg K2], I also recommend supplementing with magnesium, watch out for hypercalcemia.​

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AI​

Exemestane (Aromasin) 25mg/every other day or Letrozole every 4 days at 2.5mg. Depending on how long you plan to run a stack for, I would consider cycling this after more than 4-5 months.​

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Poorcel
Questionable results on a budget

MK677 ​

35 - 45 mg/day (bedtime) for 4 weeks, then every other day for two weeks at 20mg; repeat. I would also recommend mega dosing P-5-P throughout your cycle to decrease prolactin, especially if you are feeling symptoms of increased prolactin (gyno, decreased libido/mood, etc). For every 4 months on take 1 month off.​

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AI (optional)​

Exemestane (Aromasin) 25mg/every other day or Letrozole every 4 days at 2.5mg. Depending on how long you plan to run a stack for, I would consider cycling this after more than 4-5 months.​

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Stack Advise and Warnings​

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For those whose epiphyseal plates are closed and you want to increase your frame, you do not need to run these stacks with the same dosage.​

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If you are older than 24 do not run any of these stacks (it's already over), as you will probably suffer from Acromegaly.​

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Users on looksmax also recommend running compounds like mod GRF, hexarelin, CJC, etc. These compounds are all GH secretagogues, meaning they tell your brain to produce more GH, and as we already know administration of IGF-1 analogues like LR3 are far more effective. For this reason I think secretagogues are subpar to IGF/GH and should be avoided (unless you have no choice).​

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There is still lots of debate around whether exogenous administration of growth factors causes certain cancers, some studies have shown for there to be a correlation, while others have disproved it. Do this at your own risk.​

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“Our results do not generally support a carcinogenic effect of r-hGH, but the unexplained trend in cancer mortality risk in relation to GH dose in patients with previous cancer, and the indication of possible effects on bone cancer, bladder cancer and Hodgkin lymphoma risks, need further investigation.” ​

Cancer risks in patients treated with growth hormone in childhood: the SAGhE European cohort study - PMC (nih.gov)​

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Elevated levels of GH/IGF-1 have also been reported to have side effects, most notably swelling of the feet or hands. If this occurs, discontinue use for a few weeks and try again at a lower dosage.​

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Prior to injecting or taking anything make sure to do your own research on the side effects. Decrease the dosages according to how you feel, everyone tolerates drugs differently.​

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Long term administration of GH/ IGF-1 has also been found to decrease insulin sensitivity, if you have diabetes or a family history reconsider heightmaxing. Exercise caution after the 4-6 month mark of running a stack, consider taking more time off and monitor your blood sugar.​

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Stretching exercises/ hanging are also a cope, there is no evidence of any long term height increases.​

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Lifestyle Changes​

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Some lifestyle changes that may contribute to increasing height:

• Eat a high protein diet (ideally >50% daily cal from protein)
• Ensure you get enough nutrients (use https://cronometer.com/), use supplements if you need to, make sure they are bioavailable.
• Eat in a slight surplus, 400 - 600 cal (unless you are obese, lose the weight first and then eat in surplus)
• Incorporate resistance training. For those serious about heightmaxing I would avoid exercises that compress your spine or pose a risk of damaging your joints (squats, deadlifts, OHP), instead opting for callisthenics and sprinting.
  • Bone morphogenetic protein 3 was found to be elevated in fractured tissue (this may include microfractures). BMP3 is an agonist to other BMP’s, which means that more BMP3 = less bone growth (this doesn't mean you shouldn't exercise).
• Diet high in dairy products and calcium
• Sleeping >8 hours/ night consistently
• Some herbal supplements like Tongat Ali, Ashwagnada, etc may be useful for lowering oestrogen/ increasing testosterone; promoting sexual dimorphism.
  • Depending on your situation you may also opt for using herbal supplements to control your oestrogen (delay fusion) and increase GH. The efficacy of these herbs are usually very questionable, and almost all (>90% of online vendors underdose their products).
• Decrease consumption of sugars (fructose, glucose, etc)

Conclusion


While this guide is far from perfect, hopefully I covered enough to help some of you on your heightmaxing journey. Best of luck and thanks for reading.
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Spoiler: Sources

All this information was revealed to me in a dream

Inb4 greycel​

I wish i knew this when i was 11

 

[Osie]

@Osie Read this brother

I did read it, and made a comment as well. High quality thread with a few issues but it's really useful!