Is it True That You Get Shorter with Age?
Undoubtedly, individuals often lose height as they grow older.
From age 40 onward, adults typically drop approximately one centimeter every ten years. Males see height loss each year between 0.08% and 0.1%. Women typically lose between 0.12% and 0.14% yearly.
Factors Contributing to Height Loss
Part of this decrease stems from increasingly slumped posture as we age. Those who develop a stooped stance throughout the day – perhaps while working – might notice their spine gradually adapts that hunched shape.
We all decrease vertical stature between morning and evening as gravity compresses moisture from vertebral discs.
The Biological Process Explaining Shrinking
The change in our stature occurs at a microscopic level.
From 30 to 35 years old, height stabilizes as bone and muscle mass start declining. The cushioning discs within our backbone shed water and begin shrinking.
The porous interior throughout our skeletal framework loses density. When this happens, the structure compact slightly and shortens.
Diminished muscle mass also influences vertical measurement: the framework sustains their shape and dimensions by muscular pressure.
Can We Prevent Shrinking?
Although this change can't be prevented, the rate can be reduced.
Following nutrition rich in calcium and vitamin D, engaging in regular weight-bearing exercise while limiting nicotine and alcohol beginning in youth could slow the rate of bone and muscle loss.
Keeping correct spinal position also provides protection against shrinking.
Is Shrinking Stature Concerning?
Losing some height isn't necessarily harmful.
But, considerable bone and muscle loss in later years associates with chronic health conditions including heart complications, brittle bones, joint inflammation, and physical limitations.
Consequently, it's beneficial to take preventive measures for preserving structural tissue wellness.
