As we age, our body goes through a number of changes. Though retirees Our vision, hearing, hair, and memory are some of the things we lose,…but what about height?
So, will I shrink?
We hate to be the bearer of bad news, but some shrinking is a normal part of aging. Here are three reasons why:
The arches of your feet fall. As you age, your feet flatten which causes you be just a little bity shorter.
The discs of your spine shrink. Your spinal discs are filled up with fluid. As you age, less fluid makes its way to them, which causes them to flatten and your spine loses some length.
Your muscles lose mass. Your muscles help you to stand tall. Over time, you just lose them. As your muscles lose mass, your posture will begin to falter, making you appear shorter.
Shrinking may be a part of aging, but don’t worry too much as you won’t lose inches in a drastic way. The average person can expect to lose 1/3-1/4 of an inch for every decade after the age of 40. So, by the time a man turns 70, he may lose about 1 1/2 inches. A woman could lose up to 2 inches.
Can I stop the shrinking?
Unless you’ve got a magic potion, there isn’t a lot you can do to stop the aging process. There are, however, steps you can take to keep shrinking at bay.
We strongly believe in regular exercise as a part of your healthcare routine, and it can be a huge help to prevent shrinking, particularly when it comes to weight-bearing exercises like jogging and running. Those types of exercises work the hips and legs, which also supports muscle and bone mass. Another great way to support your body is by getting the right amount of vitamin D, as it contributes to healthy bones. Be sure to consume foods high in Vitamin D, like kale, broccoli, and almonds.
Proper posture is also a great way to fight off shrinking. When you are aware of your posture, you help your muscles stay strong, your bones healthy, and you prevent unnecessary stress from being put on your spine. Posture also affects your mood, so you’ll be helping both your physical and mental health!
With regular chiropractic adjustments, you will help keep your spine healthy through all stages of life and you may even prevent shrinking!
