You’ve probably heard it too. Someone says, “Drink hot cocoa—it’s good for your growth.” Maybe your mom said it. Or your friend’s mom. Or maybe you saw it in a TikTok comment under one of those “grow taller fast” videos. As a writer who’s spent years dissecting nutrition trends—especially those buzzing around height growth, I’ve seen this claim resurface every few years. And it usually pulls in teens, concerned parents, and let’s be honest—chocolate lovers hoping for a miracle.

But here’s the thing: Is there any science behind cocoa making you taller? Or is it just another tasty-sounding myth riding the wave of half-truths and wishful thinking?

Let’s unpack this, one bite (or sip) at a time.

Height in America: Growing Concerns

Now, before diving into the cocoa cup, you need to understand the context. In the U.S., according to CDC growth charts, the average height for teenage boys at age 16 is about 5’8″ (172.7 cm) and for girls, it’s around 5’4″ (162.6 cm). While genetics mostly drive your final height, environmental and dietary factors can shape how close you get to your potential.

Over the last few decades, height growth in American teens has plateaued, despite medical advances. That’s stirred up more curiosity around what you can eat or drink to help “optimize” your height—leading to a surge of dietary myths, including the cocoa-for-height idea.

What Determines Human Height?

Here’s the deal: your height isn’t a coin toss. It’s biology with a sprinkle of nutrition and a dash of environment.

• Genetics: Roughly 80% of your height is pre-written in your DNA. If your parents are tall, you’re likely to be tall too.
• Hormones: Specifically, human growth hormone (HGH) released by your pituitary gland fuels growth spurts—especially during adolescence.
• Nutrition & Lifestyle: Poor nutrient intake or chronic stress can suppress HGH or interfere with epiphyseal plate activity (those are the growth plates in your bones).

👉 What I’ve found is that even if your genes are generous, if you don’t eat right or sleep enough during puberty, you might not reach your full height potential.

Nutritional Requirements for Height Growth

Let’s talk food. Because what you feed your body directly affects bone growth, muscle development, and hormonal balance—especially in your teen years.

Here are the top height-supporting nutrients your body craves:

• Calcium – Builds strong bones (found in dairy, leafy greens).
• Vitamin D – Boosts calcium absorption and bone health (sunlight, fortified milk).
• Protein – Fuels muscle and tissue growth (chicken, eggs, tofu).
• Zinc – Supports cell growth and immunity (nuts, beans, meat).
• Magnesium – Helps with bone structure and over 300 metabolic reactions.

🔎 In my opinion, magnesium often flies under the radar but it plays a quiet, crucial role in bone density. And hey—cocoa’s got a good dose of it. More on that later.

Cocoa’s Nutritional Profile

Alright, let’s open the jar.

Natural cocoa powder—not the sugar-loaded stuff—actually carries a surprisingly dense nutrient profile. Check this out:

✅ My two cents: cocoa’s antioxidant load is nothing to laugh at. I’ve personally felt less sluggish when including raw cocoa in smoothies—just saying.

Can Cocoa Impact Bone Health?

Let’s get into the bones of the matter. (Sorry, had to.)

There’s some interesting overlap between cocoa’s nutrients and bone health essentials. For example:

• Magnesium helps convert vitamin D into its active form.
• Flavanols (like those in cocoa) may reduce oxidative stress, which has been linked to weakened bones.
• Some studies suggest cocoa might support osteoblast activity (those are the cells responsible for building bone).

But—and this is key—the calcium-to-oxalate ratio in cocoa is skewed, which could potentially hinder calcium absorption if consumed in excess or with poor diet balance.

👉 So yes, cocoa might help bones… but only if it’s part of a solid diet. Don’t toss out your yogurt just yet.

American Diet Trends and Cocoa Consumption

Let’s be real: cocoa in the U.S. usually means hot chocolate with a mountain of marshmallows or processed snacks from brands like Hershey’s, Nestlé, and Ghirardelli.

The average American teen consumes way more added sugar than recommended—the USDA says up to 17 teaspoons daily! And most cocoa-based products are loaded with sugar, fats, and additives.

🤔 What you think is a “healthy cocoa drink” could actually be just a dessert in disguise.

Cocoa, Hormones, and Growth Stimulation

This is where things get a bit more speculative.

Cocoa contains:

• Theobromine, which affects the nervous system and might mildly stimulate the body.
• Polyphenols, which could influence neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin.
• Magnesium, which helps reduce cortisol (a stress hormone that can suppress growth).

There’s no hard evidence that cocoa directly boosts HGH, but better mood and lower stress can support growth indirectly—especially in teens.

👀 I wouldn’t bet on cocoa as a hormone hack. But if it helps you relax and feel better? That’s not nothing.

Scientific Studies: What Does the Research Say?

So far, no peer-reviewed study directly proves that cocoa increases height.

However:

• Studies from PubMed and NIH show polyphenols and flavonoids in cocoa improve vascular health, which is essential for nutrient delivery during growth.
• Clinical trials suggest cocoa can support cognitive performance and mood, which indirectly influence healthy lifestyle habits (and maybe better sleep).

🎓 In my view, the science supports cocoa as a helper—not a hero—for overall wellness.

Should You Consume Cocoa to Grow Taller?

Here’s my honest take.

Cocoa alone won’t make you taller. But when included in a nutrient-rich, balanced diet, it can support the bigger picture: bone health, mood, stress reduction, and mineral intake.

If you’re a teen (or a parent of one), here’s how you can make cocoa a smarter part of your diet:

Step-by-Step Cocoa Guide for Height-Friendly Use:

1. Choose Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Not sugary hot chocolate mixes.
2. Pair with Calcium-Rich Foods – Like almond milk or Greek yogurt.
3. Add to Smoothies – Blend with bananas, spinach, protein powder.
4. Limit Sugar – Use natural sweeteners like honey or dates.
5. Moderate Portions – 1-2 tablespoons a few times a week is plenty.

What I’ve learned over the years: moderation beats magic every time.

Bonus Tip: What About NuBest Tall?

If you’re looking at supplements, NuBest Tall is one that pops up a lot. I’ve reviewed it in client research work before. It’s packed with:

• Calcium, collagen, and herbal extracts
• Vitamin D and zinc
• Designed specifically for teens and growing kids

✅ I’d say it’s one of the more complete height growth supplements—if you pair it with a healthy diet, regular sleep, and exercise. It’s not a magic pill, but it’s solid.

Final Thoughts: Cocoa for Growth? A Tasty “Maybe”

So, does cocoa make you taller?

No—but it might help support the systems that help you grow. If you’re getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet, moving your body, and minimizing stress, a bit of cocoa could fit in just fine—as a wellness booster, not a height miracle.

📌 My rule? If it tastes good, makes you feel good, and fits your lifestyle—keep it in. Just don’t expect to wake up 2 inches taller because of it.

Choose Supplement

• Related post: How does vitamin K2 impact height growth?

Erika Gina

Hi there! My name is Erika Gina, and I am the author of Choose Supplement, a website dedicated to helping people achieve their height goals naturally and effectively. With over 10 years of experience as a height increase expert, I have helped countless individuals increase their height through diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes.

My passion for this field stems from my own struggles with being short, and I am committed to sharing my knowledge and experience to help others overcome similar challenges. On my website, you will find a wealth of information and resources, including tips, exercises, and product reviews, all designed to help you grow taller and improve your confidence and overall well-being. I am excited to be a part of your height journey and look forward to supporting you every step of the way.

Name: Erika Gina

Address: 2949 Virtual Way, Vancouver, BC V5M 4X3, Canada

Email: [email protected]