Women's Wellness 3 MIN READ 14406 VIEWS August 12, 2023

What is the Average Height of Women in India?

Have you ever wondered what is the average height of women in India? If so, you are not alone. But, in a country with a population of 1.3 billion, a standard height for women is almost impossible to establish. This is because there are several races and religious groups in India. Thus, genetics, nutrition, and environment all collaboratively affect the average height and other body features. 

In this blog, we will discuss the average height for women in India, and what it means for their well-being and opportunities. 

Historical Perspective on Average Height for Women in India

The average height for women in India reveals a lot about the country’s history, culture, and health. 

  • According to one study, the average height of Indian women in 1914 was 149.9 cm, which increased to 151.4 cm in 1962. 
  • Another study estimated the average height of Indian women in 1958-59 to be 147.9 cm.

Hence, in recent days, there have been a few changes in Indian women’s regular height. The reasons are:

  • India’s rapid economic and social changes 
  • Improved living and health standards

However, heights still vary a lot. For example, between NFHS III and IV, the poorest women’s average height dropped significantly [-0.57cm]. Also, the average height of women from Scheduled Tribe (ST) in the age group of 15–25 years decreased significantly by 0.42 cm.

Factors Influencing Height in Indian Women

The average height for women in India is about 5 ft, which is slightly lower than the world average. In this section, you will learn about these regulating factors of the average height of women:

1. Genetics and Ethnicity

Some studies have identified a gene called HMGA2, which determines the height variation in human races. India has Indo-Aryans, Dravidians, mixed tribes, and other ethnic groups. Therefore, average height fluctuates.

2. Nutrition and Diet

Proper nutrition at the right age is necessary for optimal height and growth. Especially during adolescence, women require proper nutrition, and usually, in Indian society, there is a deficiency in this. Therefore, it is essential to maintain proper nutrition at the right age to get a standard height as well.

3. Socioeconomic Factors 

Socioeconomic status and heredity affect Indian female height. Higher-class women can eat healthier. As they age, they grow taller. According to a study, women in urban areas are taller than rural women.

4. Public Healthcare

Access to adequate healthcare facilities can also play a part in ensuring women reach their desired height. If women get the treatment and medicine for their illness on time, it ensures their growth spurt is not affected. 

Naturally Increasing Your Height Beyond the Average Height of Women

Natural methods may help women grow taller. These strategies work best during the growing-up years, although results may vary. So, tips to consider here are:

1. The Importance of Nutrition

A balanced diet with vital elements such as protein, calcium, vitamins (particularly vitamin D), and minerals is required for optimal growth and bone formation. Eat eggs, seafood, leafy greens, dairy, and lean meats to aid your vertical growth.

2. Regular Exercise 

Practise stretching and flexibility activities like yoga, pilates, and swimming. Posture and height enhancement can be achieved with these workouts.

3. Ensure Proper Sleep 

Ensure adequate restful sleep, as growth hormones are significantly released during deep sleep. Try to sleep 7-9 hours per night to achieve better height.

4. Correct Posture

Proper posture can provide the appearance of height. Straighten your spine, whether standing or sitting.

5. Avoid Growth-Stunting Factors

Smoking, alcohol, and malnutrition can stunt growth. Not doing these things can help.

6. Hanging Workouts 

Hanging exercises with a pull-up bar decompress and extend the spine.

7. Skip Weightlifting

Heavy lifting and hard exercise may prematurely close growth plates and limit height. Focus on gentler activities throughout growth.

8. Stay Hydrated 

Health and growth depend on proper hydration. So, drink 2-3 litres of water every day without fail. And, if you can drink 4 litres, then there is nothing like it.

Conclusion

The average height for women in India tends to be shorter than the global average, which can have negative consequences for their health, happiness, and access to certain professions and educational pathways. Therefore, it is crucial to eliminate height differences and promote healthy development for all Indian women. Further, studies into what is preventing Indian women from growing in height should be ongoing.

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