
Four important parameters of human growth are :
- Height
- Weight
- Muscles
- Brain & Nervous system
Today we will discuss the changes taking place in a humans life-long journey from pre-birth to old age.
STAGE 1: PRENATAL
Do you know that human growth is more rapid in the womb than any other stage of the lifespan. Our height increases from one cell to an average of 50 cm at birth. Our weight increases from one cell to an average of 3 kg of body tissue at birth. Most muscle cells are present at birth but they have a high water and connective tissue content. The brain has nerve cells whose size and number attain 25% of adult brain at birth.
STAGE 2: INFANCY
The rate of growth is very rapid during the first year but slows down during the second year. Our height increases rapidly in the first three months and may reach 25% of our adult height. Our weight gets doubled the birth weight in the first 6 months and trebled by the 21st month. Most of the weight gain is from fat tissue. The muscle weight during infancy becomes 25% of the total body weight. This increase in size is a result of growth in the length and thickness of muscle cells. The brain and nervous system see rapid growth during infancy.
STAGE 3: CHILDHOOD
The rate of growth slows down during this period in preparation for adolescence. The height increase slows down during this period. Weight increase also slows down and the increases comes mostly from bone and muscle tissue growth. Our muscle increases extensively as the water content of muscle increases. And finally, the brain development slows down but reaches maximum size by the age of 10 years.
STAGE 4: ADOLESCENCE
Rate of growth is very rapid but not quite as rapid as in infancy. The height increases due to rapid skeletal growth, leading to an average gain of 20 cm in males and 16 cm in females. Weight gain comes as a result of an increase in bone and muscle tissue. Muscle differences in strength and muscle/fat ratio of males and females become evident. Our brain and nervous system sees growth as nerve connections and associations continue to build up.
STAGE 5: ADULTHOOD
The rate of growth is only witnessed in the cell replacement for maintenance of existing tissues. Our height may see an increase of 1-2 cm but we are generally finished reaching maximum height. Weight increases generally due to fat deposits. Muscle now represents 40% of body weight. Maximum strength is witnessed generally between 25-30 years. The brain and nervous system see no likely change in capacity and functioning.
STAGE 6: LATE ADULTHOOD
Rate of growth is negative because cell loss is greater than cell reproduction, functions are slowed but not lost. Our height may appear to decrease due to change in posture through loss of strength of postural muscles. Weight loss can occur through a loss of lean tissue but can be managed through energy balance mechanism. Muscle reduce in size through loss of fibers as protein is replaced with fat. This also results in some loss of strength. The brain and nervous system may lose around 20% nerve cells in majority people of this age group. This leads to less acuity but not capacity.
*NOTE*:The purpose of this blog is to share important information with the audience. While trying to learn about the specific nutritional needs of individuals at different age spans, I researched and collected this useful information. I would appreciate any comments or suggestions related to this topic which will further help me in improving my knowledge.
About the Author:
Muhammad Najib is an internationally certified Personal Trainer who also specializes in Sports Nutrition, Sports Conditioning, Corrective Exercise and Performance Enhancement.
He worked with various reputable gym chains across the UK and is registered with the UK Register of Exercise Professionals as Advanced Fitness Instructor and Level 3 Personal Trainer.
In Pakistan he operates gym chain by the name of Fitman Fitness Club.
Website: www.fitmanfitnessclub.com
Email: fitmanfitness93@gmail.com
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