Our body shape changes dramatically throughout old age. Our skin wrinkles, our ears grow, our posture deteriorates, the way we walk changes, our height becomes shorter.
Such differences arise due to changes in tissues such as bones and muscles in our body.
After the age of 40, we shorten by an average of 1 centimeter every 10 years.
Between the vertebrae that make up our spine, there is a substance called disc, which has a jelly-like consistency. As we age, this substance loses water and becomes smaller. In addition, over time, our bone density decreases due to calcium and mineral loss. Our spine, which shortens and bends due to such factors, also causes our height to shorten.
Bone and muscle tissue begin to weaken after the age of 35.
Although the rate varies according to the person, osteoporosis occurs in everyone at certain rates. It is 5 times more common in women than men. The most important reason for this is menopause, as the estrogen level decreases during this period, the bones break and melt more. Length shortening also gains speed.
We lose 3-5% of muscle mass every 10 years due to age-related muscle loss called sarcopenia. Trunk muscles are important in keeping us upright, so a particular focus should be placed on protecting these muscles.
This process cannot be completely prevented, but you can significantly reduce shortening if you improve your lifestyle.
Genetic factors are also important in this process, but if your bones have developed in a healthy way during your growth period, your bone loss will be less in old age. In addition to regular sports, your calcium and vitamin D intake can delay this process. Get plenty of sunbathing to avoid vitamin D deficiency.
To protect your bones, you need to quit smoking, cut down on alcohol. It is very important to eat a balanced diet, get enough protein, and consume vegetables and fruits. Strengthen your muscles so that less stress is placed on the bones. In addition, everyone after the age of 50 should have bone measurements done at regular intervals.
Sources: 1, 2, 3
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