How Tall Is An Average Indian?

The average height of an Indian

The mean Indian male height is considered to be 5 feet 5 ½ inches (166.5 centimeters), while the mean Indian female height is 5 feet 1 inch (155.2 centimeters) [1].

Over a century ago, in 1914, Indian men and women only stood at an average of 5 feet 3 inches (162 centimeters) and 4 feet 10 inches (148 centimeters) respectively. As far as we can see, Indian women grew in height by nearly 2 inches (4.9 centimeters), while Indian men grew taller by only 1.1 inches (2.9 centimeters). Although the average height of Indian females has been significantly increasing over a century compared to males, they are still among the shortest people in the global rankings.

In 1914, Indian men ranked 101 among 200, while women stood at 163. But Indian women were just 192 on the ranking in 2014, while men were 173. Even, the average height of women in other India’s neighboring countries increased remarkably during this period. For instance, the mean height of women in Sri Lanka and Bangladesh increased by 3.6 inches (9.3 centimeters) between 1914 and 2014.

What happened?

The highest undernutrition and malnutrition are two main factors responsible for these results. Even after independence, poor nutrition in India may have increased, affecting the health of pregnant women and then leading to a decline in to-be children. Also, the Indian diet mainly focuses on carbohydrates, not proteins, and the increasing lack of physical activities results in slow height gain [2].

The average human height by country

Below is the data of the countries with the tallest average height in the world [1].

Ways to improve height growth

We all know that genetics plays a vital role in determining a person’s height. With over 700 different gene variants, some might affect the growth plates. Meanwhile, others might affect the production of hormones for growth, like growth hormones, thyroid hormones, testosterone, and estrogen.

But they are not the only contributors that influence a person’s height. Let’s reveal the truth!

A healthy diet

Consuming a varied and well-balanced diet with more fruits and veggies is vital for growth, especially for growing kids and teens. This is because it will make sure they receive all the necessary vitamins and minerals to thrive. Calcium and protein-rich foods, like dairy products, soybeans, oranges, meat, seafood, poultry, eggs, nuts, seeds, and legumes, are important for bone growth and health.

Those who are pregnant should ensure good nutrition to support the bone growth and health of their fetus. Eat more fruits and veggies, pasteurized dairy products, meat, fish, beans, and nuts.

A good sleep pattern

It is believed that children need to sleep more to reach their full height potential. Yes, this is true. While you sleep, the pituitary glands secrete growth hormones, which are helpful to extend and thicken your bones.

A study pointed out that the growth rate tended to increase by about 43% every time a baby sleep through the night. It also increased by 20% for each extra hour he slept [3].

Below is the suggested amount of sleep you need every night.

• Toddlers ages 2 and younger should sleep between 13 and 22 hours (while newborns need at least 18 hours per day).

• Kids ages 3 and 5 should sleep between 11 and 13 hours.

• Children ages 6 and 7 should sleep between 9 and 10 hours.

• Adolescents ages 8 and 14 should sleep between 8 and 9 hours.

• Teens ages 15 and 17 should sleep between 7.5 and 8 hours.

• Adults ages 18 and older should sleep between 7 and 9 hours.

Regular exercises

Regular physical activities are necessary for proper growth in children, teens, and adults as they help increase growth hormone production and assist the health of bone and muscle tissues. Try weight-bearing strength training exercises like running, jumping rope, and jogging to keep the body lean and fit. Or indulge in yoga and flexibility exercises to improve your stature, making you appear taller.

Exercise for at least 30 minutes to keep you stay healthy and grow taller. Also, playing sports outside is an ideal way to synthesize vitamin D from sunlight naturally.

Proper posture

Practicing good posture does not make you get taller but makes you appear taller. Stand tall and keep your back straight as well as roll your shoulders back and raise your chin a bit when walking around. If you sit, make sure to roll your shoulders back, straighten your back, and keep your face straight ahead.

Vitamin supplements

Although some dietary supplements are advertised to help you improve your height and general health, you should ask your doctor first. Remember that taking these vitamins is an addition to support your growth, not the only way. And it cannot help you grow taller if your growth plates close.

In summary,

The height of individuals in India has been on the rise, albeit not to a degree that would significantly alter their global standing in this regard. With this in mind, what are your personal reflections on this evolving trend? We eagerly invite you to express your insights and perspectives, and kindly stay connected with us to remain abreast of the most up-to-date developments and information. Your contributions and engagement are greatly valued

• Related post: When Do Baby Growth Spurts Happen?