When it comes to height, people often wonder what is considered average. For American men, the average height is 5 feet 9 inches (175.26 cm). This measurement is based on a study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in 2018. Let's take a closer look at the average American male height.
How Does the Average American Male Height Compare to Other Countries?
The average height of an American male is relatively tall when compared to other countries. According to a study by Our World in Data, the average height for men globally is 5 feet 7 inches (171 cm). However, there are some countries where men are taller than the average American male, such as the Netherlands, where the average height is 6 feet (183 cm).
Is There a Difference in Height Between Ethnic Groups in the USA?
Yes, there is a difference in height between ethnic groups in the USA. According to the CDC study, non-Hispanic white men have an average height of 5 feet 10 inches (177.8 cm), while non-Hispanic black men have an average height of 5 feet 9 inches (175.26 cm). Hispanic men have an average height of 5 feet 7.7 inches (171.96 cm), and Asian men have an average height of 5 feet 7.5 inches (171.45 cm).
How Does Height Change with Age?
Height changes throughout a person's life, and it is influenced by various factors such as genetics, nutrition, and lifestyle. According to the CDC study, the average height for American men peaks at age 30 and then gradually decreases with age. By age 60, the average height is 5 feet 8 inches (172.72 cm).
What are the Health Benefits of Being Tall?
Being tall has been associated with several health benefits. According to a study published in the journal Circulation, taller people have a lower risk of developing heart disease and type 2 diabetes. They also tend to have a longer life expectancy. However, being too tall may increase the risk of certain health problems, such as blood clots and varicose veins.
What are the Factors that Affect Height?
Height is influenced by several factors, including genetics, nutrition, and environment. Genetics plays a significant role in determining a person's height, as it is estimated to account for 60-80% of height variability. Nutrition also plays a vital role, especially during childhood and adolescence when the body is growing rapidly. A balanced diet that includes sufficient amounts of protein, vitamins, and minerals is essential for optimal growth. Environmental factors such as exposure to toxins and pollutants can also affect height.
Can You Increase Your Height?
While genetics plays a significant role in determining height, there are some things you can do to maximize your growth potential. Eating a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, and engaging in regular exercise can help promote optimal growth. However, it is important to note that once you reach adulthood, it is unlikely that you will gain any significant height.
Conclusion
The average American male height is 5 feet 9 inches (175.26 cm), which is relatively tall when compared to other countries. Height is influenced by various factors such as genetics, nutrition, and environment. While being tall has been associated with several health benefits, it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle regardless of your height.