Seasonal Curves
Research shows that body shape varies with the seasons. The changes are not intentional - but are due to seasonal variations in hormone levels.
"...women's waist-to-hip ratio (how big the waist is relative to the hips) is highest during autumn, and central measures of fat deposition, like abdominal fat, were also somewhat higher in autumn."
The change in fat distribution is related to the rise and fall of testosterone levels. When testosterone levels rise, women became less curvy and fat shifts toward the waist. The opposite happens in men, where abdominal fat retention increases as testosterone falls.
What is unusual about this study is that these hormonal changes follow a seasonal pattern.
...a large body of previous research has found that men find lower waist-to-hip ratios in women more attractive in Western nations," van Anders says."As well, a large body of research finds that lower waist-to-hip ratios are associated with better fertility parameters and health parameters. This suggests that women should be perceived as slightly less attractive in autumn."
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This is one of those "so what?" studies.
Personally, I could not care less if men find me less attractive with a 75 % waist-to hip ratio compared to a 70 % ratio and others should not care, either. I cannot and am not willing to control my "ratios" or testosterone levels according to anyone´s tastes, it is my health that interests me.
I really don´t think a small shift in fat deposits without weight fluctuation is in any way visible.
What I do find interesting is that when the researchers did not really find any real meaning or conclusions in their research, they conclude outside their study that women are less attractive in the autumn. Nothing said about men, or nothing that would actually relate to the study or be in any way productive or beneficial.
ReplyIts kind of funny... I actually measured my waist this morning, and last time (this was probably about 4 months ago) it was over an inch larger... but I weighed the same, maybe a couple of lbs more, but still.
ReplyI was wondering about that, so thanks. Its interesting. Gives new meaning to summer love.
This study doesn't seem all that unusual to me. The article suggests it may be reproduction related, for women, at least. The changes may be an evolutionary throwback to the caveman days. When preparing for winter, accumulating more fat may be a survival function to help stay warmer and to help nurse a child. I'm speculating most mating took place in the autumn back in them thar ancient days.
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