The Reality That You Get Shorter with Age?
Without question, adults typically shrink as they grow older.
Once past 40, individuals commonly shed about a centimeter of height per decade. Males see height loss each year around 0.08% to 0.1%. Females generally shed between 0.12% and 0.14% yearly.
What Causes Decreasing Height
Part of this decrease stems from progressively poor posture as we age. People who maintain a stooped stance for extended periods – perhaps while working – might notice their back slowly conforms that curved alignment.
All people shed vertical stature between morning and evening when gravitational force squeezes moisture from vertebral discs.
Physical Changes Explaining Shrinking
The change in our stature happens on a cellular scale.
During the early thirties, growth ceases as bone and muscle mass gradually reduce. The spinal cushions within our backbone become dehydrated and gradually compress.
The honeycomb structure of spinal, pelvic and leg bones loses density. When this happens, the bone compresses slightly becoming shorter.
Decreased muscle further impacts our height: bones maintain their structure and measurements through muscular tension.
Is It Possible to Stop Shrinking?
Even though this transformation isn't stoppable, the progression can be delayed.
Consuming a diet high in calcium and D vitamins, engaging in regular strength-building activities and reducing tobacco and alcohol from younger adulthood could slow how quickly bone and muscle diminish.
Keeping correct spinal position helps prevent acceleration against shrinking.
Is Shrinking Stature A Health Issue?
Losing some height may not be problematic.
Yet, significant deterioration of structural tissues in later years connects to persistent health problems such as heart complications, brittle bones, joint inflammation, and physical limitations.
Therefore, it's valuable to implement protective strategies to maintain structural tissue wellness.
