Is it True That You Get Shorter with Age?
Without question, adults typically shrink as they grow older.
Once past 40, adults typically drop about a centimeter each decade. Men undergo an annual height reduction around 0.08% to 0.1%. Females generally shed 0.12-0.14% annually.
Reasons Behind Height Loss
A portion of this loss is caused by increasingly slumped posture as we age. Those who develop a hunched back posture over long durations – maybe at their workstation – may discover their back slowly conforms that curved alignment.
We all decrease in height from start to end of day as gravity compresses fluid from spinal discs.
The Biological Process Behind Height Reduction
The change in our stature occurs at a microscopic level.
During the early thirties, growth ceases when skeletal and muscular tissue begin to diminish. The spinal cushions separating our spinal bones become dehydrated and gradually compress.
The lattice-like center in vertebrae, pelvis and lower limbs reduces in thickness. When this happens, skeletal tissue condenses somewhat reducing length.
Reduced muscular tissue further impacts our stature: bones maintain their shape and dimensions via muscle force.
Can We Prevent Height Loss?
Although this change can't be prevented, it can be slowed.
Consuming a diet containing adequate calcium and vitamin D, participating in consistent strength-building activities and reducing nicotine and alcohol starting in early adulthood could slow the decline of skeletal and muscular tissue.
Maintaining proper posture also provides protection of stature loss.
Is Shrinking Stature Concerning?
Experiencing minor reduction isn't necessarily harmful.
But, considerable skeletal and muscular decline as we grow older links to chronic health conditions like heart complications, bone density loss, osteoarthritis, and mobility challenges.
Therefore, it's valuable to implement protective strategies to support bone and muscle health.