Fact or Fiction That You Get Shorter with Age?
Undoubtedly, adults typically shrink with advancing age.
After the age of 40, humans generally lose about a centimeter of height per decade. Men undergo height loss each year around 0.08% to 0.1%. Women typically lose 0.12-0.14% annually.
Reasons Behind Decreasing Height
A portion of this loss is caused by progressively poor posture over time. Individuals who adopt a curved spinal position throughout the day – perhaps while working – might notice their posture naturally assumes that curved alignment.
We all decrease vertical stature throughout each day when gravitational force squeezes moisture from vertebral discs.
Natural Mechanisms Behind Height Reduction
The change in our stature happens on a cellular scale.
From 30 to 35 years old, height stabilizes when skeletal and muscular tissue start declining. The cushioning discs within our backbone become dehydrated and start contracting.
The honeycomb structure in vertebrae, pelvis and lower limbs loses density. When this happens, the bone compresses slightly and shortens.
Reduced muscular tissue also influences our height: skeletal structures preserve their structure and measurements via muscle force.
Ways to Slow Stature Reduction?
Although this change cannot be halted, the progression can be delayed.
Consuming a diet containing adequate calcium and vitamin D, performing routine weight-bearing exercise and reducing nicotine and alcohol from younger adulthood may reduce how quickly bone and muscle diminish.
Practicing good alignment helps prevent acceleration against shrinking.
Is Height Loss A Health Issue?
Experiencing minor reduction could be normal.
Yet, significant skeletal and muscular decline in later years associates with long-term medical issues including heart-related conditions, brittle bones, osteoarthritis, and physical limitations.
Consequently, it's beneficial to take preventive measures for preserving structural tissue wellness.
