The Reality That You Get Shorter with Age?
Undoubtedly, people tend to become shorter as they grow older.
After the age of 40, adults typically drop approximately one centimeter of height per decade. Males see an annual height reduction around 0.08% to 0.1%. Women typically lose 0.12-0.14% per year.
Reasons Behind Shrinking Stature
A portion of this loss results from increasingly slumped posture with aging. Those who develop a curved spinal position throughout the day – possibly during desk work – could find their spine gradually adapts that curved alignment.
All people shed vertical stature from start to end of day as gravity compresses fluid from spinal discs.
Physical Changes Explaining Shrinking
The change in our stature takes place gradually.
During the early thirties, stature plateaus as our structural tissues begin to diminish. The spinal cushions within our backbone shed water and begin shrinking.
The porous interior in vertebrae, pelvis and lower limbs becomes less dense. During this process, the structure compact slightly becoming shorter.
Reduced muscular tissue also influences vertical measurement: the framework sustains their structure and measurements via muscle force.
Ways to Slow Stature Reduction?
Although this change can't be prevented, the rate can be reduced.
Consuming a diet containing adequate calcium and vitamin D, participating in consistent resistance training and avoiding tobacco and alcohol starting in early adulthood may reduce the decline of skeletal and muscular tissue.
Maintaining proper posture helps prevent acceleration against shrinking.
Is Shrinking Stature Concerning?
Losing some height isn't necessarily harmful.
Yet, significant bone and muscle loss in later years links to long-term medical issues including heart-related conditions, brittle bones, joint inflammation, and physical limitations.
Consequently, it's beneficial to take preventive measures for preserving skeletal and muscular integrity.