Vietnamese Players Dinh Bac & Trung Kien: Height Growth Secrets Revealed

The Role of Nutrition and Growth in Young Vietnamese Athletes

The success of young Vietnamese athletes, such as Dinh Bac and Trung Kien, has sparked interest in the factors contributing to their physical development. While athletic skill and rigorous training are paramount, nutrition and lifestyle play a crucial role, particularly during adolescence. Recent attention has focused on the specific dietary habits that may have contributed to the impressive height growth observed in these players.

Dinh Bac, currently 1.80 meters tall, and Trung Kien, standing at 1.91 meters, exemplify the potential for significant growth even after initial assessments might have deemed them unlikely candidates for professional sports. This shift in perspective reflects a broader change in scouting practices, moving away from solely prioritizing initial physique and towards recognizing the impact of developmental factors.

A Shift in Scouting Philosophy

Historically, European football scouting in the 1990s and earlier often eliminated smaller children from consideration. However, as scientific understanding of physical development advanced, researchers like Helsen and Van Wickels began publishing work on the genetics, physique, and growth of young athletes. This led to a reevaluation of selection criteria, with clubs increasingly investing in youth development programs focused on maximizing physical potential, rather than solely seeking already physically imposing players. As Nick Levett, a former Talent ID Manager for England’s scouting system, stated, “Never believe any expert, coach, or scout who says a child can’t become a professional player, just by looking at the child’s physique.”

Trung Kien’s Growth: Milk, Pull-Ups, and Swimming

Trung Kien’s personal account highlights the importance of consistent habits. Joining Gia Lai’s youth team at age 15, he was already around 1.70 meters tall. He attributes his subsequent growth to a combination of soccer training, regular milk consumption, and a dedicated evening routine of pull-ups and swimming. He experienced growth spurts of 1-2 centimeters every few months, ultimately reaching 1.90 meters by 2021, with a final centimeter added later.

“I think my secret is regular exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. I always go to bed early, do pull-ups regularly, and swim. I think these things help you grow taller,” Trung Kien explained.

The Scrambled Eggs and Honey Phenomenon

The story of Dinh Bac’s growth is centered around a consistent diet of scrambled eggs with honey during the pandemic. His mother, Nguyen Thi Ngoc, credits this daily regimen with contributing to a 15-centimeter growth spurt during that period.

But does this seemingly simple remedy hold scientific merit? Nguyen Thi Ngoc Tam, a former high jumper and current master’s degree holder in nutrition and physical education, explains the nutritional basis. Chicken eggs are a rich source of high-quality protein, containing all nine essential amino acids, as well as vitamins A, B, D, and minerals like calcium, phosphorus, and zinc. These nutrients are fundamental for bone and muscle development, particularly during puberty when growth hormones are actively secreted.

Honey provides glucose and antioxidants, offering quick energy and aiding digestion, contributing to overall health. However, Ms. Tam cautions against consuming raw eggs, citing the risk of salmonella infection and potential food poisoning.

The Importance of a Balanced Approach

While anecdotal evidence suggests a positive correlation between specific dietary habits and growth, nutritional principles are relative. Folk remedies and oral traditions can yield varying results. For optimal height growth, children and adolescents should consume eggs and honey in moderation and avoid combining them in ways that pose health risks. A balanced diet, regular exercise, and sufficient sleep remain the cornerstones of healthy development.

The experiences of Dinh Bac and Trung Kien underscore the importance of holistic development in young athletes. Their stories highlight that potential can be unlocked through consistent effort, proper nutrition, and a supportive environment that prioritizes long-term health and well-being. The average height of players on Vietnam’s U23 team is approximately 1.77 meters, while China’s U23 team averages 1.82 meters, demonstrating a slight physical advantage for the Chinese team. However, individual growth and development, as exemplified by Dinh Bac and Trung Kien, can significantly impact athletic performance and success.

The January 19, 2026 semifinal match between Vietnam and China in the AFC U23 Asian Cup will undoubtedly be a test of skill, strategy, and physical prowess, but the stories of these players remind us that dedication to healthy habits can play a vital role in achieving athletic potential.