Is it True That You Get Shorter Over Time?
Definitely, people tend to become shorter as they grow older.
Once past 40, humans generally lose roughly 1 cm every ten years. Men undergo a yearly decrease in height between 0.08% and 0.1%. Women often experience between 0.12% and 0.14% yearly.
Factors Contributing to Decreasing Height
A portion of this loss results from gradually worsening posture over time. People who maintain a stooped stance over long durations – perhaps while working – might notice their spine gradually adapts that hunched shape.
All people shed vertical stature from start to end of day while gravity presses moisture from vertebral discs.
The Biological Process Behind Height Reduction
Height alteration happens on a cellular scale.
Between ages 30-35, height stabilizes as bone and muscle mass gradually reduce. The spinal cushions separating our spinal bones shed water and begin shrinking.
The honeycomb structure in vertebrae, pelvis and lower limbs becomes less dense. As this occurs, the bone compresses marginally becoming shorter.
Diminished muscle mass additionally affects our stature: bones maintain their structure and measurements via muscle force.
Ways to Slow Stature Reduction?
Although this change isn't stoppable, the rate can be reduced.
Consuming a diet containing adequate calcium and vitamin D, participating in consistent strength-building activities and avoiding tobacco and alcohol starting in early adulthood could slow the rate of bone and muscle loss.
Practicing good alignment helps prevent acceleration of stature loss.
Is Height Loss Always Problematic?
Becoming slightly shorter may not be problematic.
But, considerable deterioration of structural tissues with aging connects to chronic health conditions such as cardiovascular issues, brittle bones, joint inflammation, and movement difficulties.
Consequently, it's beneficial to take preventive measures for preserving bone and muscle health.
