So Big and Healthy Grandpa Wouldn’t Even Know You
Interesting article discussing the changes in the size of the average American since the 19th century.
The big surprise discussed in the article is that even though people today are on average 25% heavier (and only ~3″ taller) than people in 1850:
- Life expectancy is ~20 years longer
- Chronic illnesses are now occurring 10 to 25 years later than they used to
- And the average IQ has been increasing for decades
Exactly why is unclear, although much better nutrition during the first two years of life and avoidance of deadly infectious diseases are thought to be primary factors.
An interesting read. Check it out.
