How much do you really grasp about the fascinating machine that is the human body? It's about time to reconsider! While someone might think they know the basics, it's prudent they strap in because we're about to dive into a world of oddities and bizarre truths that could make even a seasoned anatomist's eyebrows shoot skyward.
Beyond the blood coursing through our veins or the bones giving us structure, the human body hosts an array of strange functions designed to keep the engine running smoothly. From stomach acid strong enough to dissolve metal to bones that are constantly being broken down and rebuilt, these unusual facts make our biological existence nothing short of miraculous. Intrigued? Stick around because this journey is just getting started.
The Tongue has 10,000 Taste Buds that are Renewing Every Two Weeks
Our love for food is undeniable, but have you ever pondered the magic behind delicious flavors? The key lies in our taste buds, those small sensory organs scattered across the tongue's surface.
As we grow older, our taste buds don't replenish as efficiently, leading to a reduced number. An elderly individual may have only about 5,000 functional taste buds, impacting their taste perception and adding complexity to the science of savouring food.
We See Everything Upside-Down
It's fascinating how our perception works. Everything we see is a result of light reflecting off objects we observe. Our eyes' curved front part bends this light, initially forming an upside-down image on the retina.
The real magic happens in our brains, which skillfully reorient this image, ensuring we perceive the world right-side-up. This remarkable process showcases the intricate coordination between our eyes and our brain to make sense of the visual world.
Goosebumps Make Body Hair Stand for Warmth
Ever pondered the cause of goosebumps? This peculiar reaction occurs when minuscule muscles located within the skin's hair follicles tug at the hair roots, causing the individual strands to stand upright. Goosebumps can arise in response to cold temperatures or when one experiences a sudden shock.
These seemingly minor yet fascinating bodily responses serve as a reminder of the intricate ways our bodies react to external stimuli, helping us adapt to various environmental conditions and emotional states.
Studies Indicate That an Untrimmed Beard Can Reach 3 Feet in Length on Average
Beard growth is significantly influenced by genetics. Factors like race and age also contribute to the variation in beard growth. Typically, men experience the most significant beard growth between the ages of 25 and 35.
Patience is key in this process; refraining from using a razor allows the beard to reach its full potential. Understanding these factors can help individuals embrace the journey of cultivating a fuller beard while appreciating the role that genetics, race, and age play in this process.
Our Bodies Regenerate Everything But Our Teeth
Our bodies have impressive self-repair capabilities, but when it comes to teeth, there's a limit. Unlike skin or bones, teeth can't naturally regenerate once they're damaged. This limitation can be attributed to the enamel, a tough protective layer that lacks living cells. So, how can we fix a chipped or cavity-filled tooth?
The realm of contemporary dentistry comes to the rescue, offering fillings, crowns, and even tooth implants as substitutes for nature's inability to rejuvenate. Although teeth may lack the body's natural regeneration abilities, a visit to the dentist can perform miraculous transformations.
We Dislike Our Voice Recordings Because They Sound Higher-Pitched and Slower than What We're Accustomed To
When it comes to feeling uneasy about hearing your own voice in a recording, you're not alone. There's a scientific explanation for it rooted in physiology and psychology. Your direct experience of your voice involves sound waves travelling and reflecting back into your ear, but recordings lack this natural resonance.
As a result, your recorded voice may strike you as unfamiliar. This discord between the voice you're accustomed to and the one captured in recordings can be traced back to the way sound waves engage with your ears.
It's Impossible to Hold Your Nose and Hum at The Same Time
Give it a try and witness this intriguing phenomenon for yourself. When attempting to hum while simultaneously pinching your nose shut, you'll quickly discover that it's an impossible feat. The reason behind this peculiar outcome lies in the nature of humming; it involves the act of exhaling.
With both your mouth and nose sealed, there's no pathway for air to escape. As a result, your vocal cords won't produce any sound. It’s a small demonstration of how our body functions, reminding us of the wonders hidden within the most ordinary activities.
You Blush on the Inside as Well
Blushing, both externally in the form of a rosy cheek glow and internally within your stomach lining, is driven by the increased flow of blood. This phenomenon causes your facial skin to take on a reddish tint when emotions or circumstances trigger it.
Simultaneously, inside your body, the lining of your stomach undergoes a similar transformation, turning red as blood surges to this internal region, reflecting the intriguing connection between emotional response and physiological reaction.
"Dimples of Venus" - Who Are You?
Michelangelo, the artist with an eye for beauty, used to call those marks above the sacroiliac joints "dimples of Venus" when he spied them on women, and "dimples of Apollo" for men.
These unique back dimples are a genetic marvel, akin to the charming chin or smile-induced cheek dimples. While more commonly found in women, these back dimples are a delightful feature that doesn't discriminate among genders, gracing just 3-8% of lucky individuals.
No Matter How Hard You Pinch it, Your Elbow Skin Won't Hurt
Pinch your elbow's skin, the "Weenus," and you'll find it curiously pain-resistant due to its scarcity of nerve endings. Olecranal skin, as it's technically called, possesses fewer pain receptors, rendering it less reactive to pressure than other body parts.
This unique characteristic underscores the intricate nature of our sensory perceptions, revealing that different skin areas can exhibit varying degrees of sensitivity under the same stimulus. So, don't hesitate to explore your Weenus and ponder the complexities of human anatomy.
You Can Taste Garlic With Your Feet
Surprisingly, there's an unusual way to experience the taste of garlic: through your feet. Placing your foot in a bag filled with garlic cloves and rubbing them on the underside can evoke a garlic taste.
This intriguing phenomenon doesn't stem from secret taste buds on your feet, but rather from the remarkable ability of garlic's aromatic molecules, particularly allicin, to permeate your skin, enter your bloodstream, and eventually reach your mouth, where you can savour the distinct flavour of garlic despite the unconventional sensory route it takes.
Our Nose and Ears Are Not Growing Bigger, They Just Get Older
Think your facial features are set in stone? Think again! It may seem as if our noses and ears are continually expanding, but it's not a matter of actual growth. Instead, attribute this illusion to gravity and the gradual decline in skin elasticity.
As time passes, the gradual loss of collagen and elastin causes these body parts to look more noticeable. Even though the bones and cartilage stay in place, the drooping soft tissue gives the impression of ongoing growth.
All Humans Are 99.9% Genetically Identical
While we tend to cherish our individuality, genetically, our similarities are striking. In terms of genetic makeup, all humans share an astonishing 99.9% similarity. It's within that remaining 0.1% that the distinctions between any two individuals emerge.
We are more similar to each other than we think. The realisation that our uniqueness is defined by such a tiny fraction of our genetic code is truly remarkable when you take a moment to ponder it.
The All-Mighty Hitchhiker's Thumb
Known for its distinct 90° backward bend, the hitchhiker's thumb earns its name through this conspicuous trait. Despite its hypermobile quality, this thumb functions remarkably well and doesn't induce any discomfort.
Intriguingly, the condition is painless, linked to a recessive trait, and often viewed as hereditary. It showcases the fascinating interplay of genetics, manifesting in a unique physical characteristic that, rather than causing issues, adds an interesting dimension to the genetic landscape.
Hiccups are a Sign of Our Evolutionary History
Ever had hiccups and wondered why? Surprisingly, they're like a leftover trait from our fishy ancestors. Back then, hiccups helped move water over gills, which we don't have anymore. Nowadays, when we hiccup, our diaphragm quickly tightens, pulling air into our lungs, and then the voice box closes abruptly.
Our body does this thing to stop water from going into what used to be gills. It's like our body hosting a party from the ancient, water days and accidentally inviting a strange but interesting guest—hiccups! Enjoy these odd spasms; they link you to life underwater.
Instead of Using Our Fingerprints, We Can Use Our Tongues
Similar to our distinct fingerprints, each tongue possesses unique identifying markers. The individuality arises from variations in shape and surface texture. Ongoing research on tongue prints suggests that the geometric characteristics and psychological texture of our tongues could serve as effective tools for identification purposes.
This exploration into the uniqueness of tongue prints offers a potential avenue for biometric identification, showcasing the intricacies of human anatomy and the innovative ways in which technology seeks to harness these distinctive features for security and identification applications.
Sucking Your Thumb Can Cause Significant Dental Problems in The Future
Babies naturally have a sucking instinct that typically diminishes after 6 months, yet many continue thumb-sucking for comfort. Though thumb-sucking may provide immediate comfort for a child, it could result in challenging orthodontic problems later on.
Conditions like an anterior open bite, where the front teeth don't meet even when the back teeth are closed, and the development of a deformed, underdeveloped lower jaw can arise. Early intervention is vital to mitigate potential orthodontic issues in the future.
Diastema: A Gap Between Teeth as a Sign of Teeth Being Too Small for Your Jaw
Diastema, the medical term for tooth gaps, occurs commonly, notably between front teeth. Predominantly influenced by genetic factors, it can run in families. While more prevalent in children, only 20% of adults maintain this gap, sparking diverse opinions on its aesthetic appeal.
Diastema, whether real or not, often stems from early loss of baby teeth, naturally closing over time. If it persists into adulthood, dental intervention may be necessary. Causes include genetics, inadequate chewing teeth, nail biting, and irregular tooth size.
Your toenails grow much slower than your fingernails
Ever notice you trim your fingernails more than your toenails? It's because your hands are closer to your heart, receiving more blood flow than your feet. This leads to longer fingernails compared to toenails.
The proximity to the heart also explains why nails grow slower in cold weather, where reduced blood flow affects their growth rate. The interplay of blood circulation, proximity to the heart, and environmental conditions sheds light on the factors influencing the varying growth patterns of fingernails and toenails.
You Have The Ability to Practice Raising One Eyebrow
Typically, 30 to 40 percent of individuals possess the unique skill of raising one eyebrow, with approximately 24 percent being naturally endowed with this ability. The good news is that mastering this talent is achievable through training.
With practice, anyone can develop the skill to independently raise a single eyebrow, expanding the percentage of those capable of this intriguing and often entertaining facial expression.
You Can't Tickle Yourself
Who's tried tickling themselves just to see if it works? Spoiler alert: It doesn't! The human brain is a marvel, always one step ahead, predicting our own movements. When one tries to tickle oneself, the cerebellum sends a signal telling the brain, "Hey, those fingers are yours; no need to laugh."
This "tickling immunity" highlights our brain's ability to differentiate between expected and surprising sensations. So, if one is looking for a giggle, one will have to recruit someone else for the tickle job and not themselves.
Blue Eyes Are Actually Nature's Mutation
Blue eyes result from a mutation in the HERC2 gene. Individuals with blue eyes share a common ancestor linked to this genetic variation, pinpointed by scientists to an era between 6,000-10,000 years ago.
This unique DNA marker is responsible for the distinctive blue coloration, marking an evolutionary occurrence that has persisted and become a defining trait in certain populations.
Only aAbout 25% of the Population Can Distinguish All Colors in the Graph
Detecting all the nuances of color in this image is a skill a select few possess. In reality, only 1 out of every 4 individuals has the ability to perceive all the shades depicted in this graph. If your visual spectrum encompasses a range of 33 to 39 colors, you possess tetrachromatic vision.
The quantity of cones, the color receptors in your eyes, determines the variety of distinct colors you can perceive. In essence, the greater the number of cones, the more diverse and vibrant the spectrum of colors becomes for you.
Unsung Heroes of Our Faces
What's it with the silent vigilance of our eyebrows and eyelashes? These tiny hair soldiers serve a critical role in our well-being! Eyebrows channel sweat, dirt, and rain away from our eyes, preventing a salty, blurry mess.
As for eyelashes, they're our eyes' frontline defense against dust, debris, and even bugs. A rapid blink reflex helps to slam the lid shut when an airborne intruder gets too close. They're like nature's little windshield wipers and bug zappers combined, all designed to keep your peepers pristine and your vision clear.
Tattoos Thrive in Our Immune System
Tattoos go beyond mere skin adornment, with research indicating that they can fortify and enhance immune responses. The act of getting a tattoo prompts the immune system to bolster itself, mobilizing white blood cells to combat infections effectively.
In essence, the process of tattooing appears to stimulate an immunological response, contributing to the body's ability to defend against potential threats by reinforcing its immune defenses.
Our Brains Are Fully Cooked Only When We're 25
Sorry, young adults, but the "I'm all grown up" badge doesn't come in the mail at 18 or even 21. Apparently, the human brain isn't fully cooked until around age 25! That's right, the prefrontal cortex, the decision-making and impulse-control center, takes its sweet time maturing.
It's a neurological waiting game that might explain those questionable life choices in early adulthood. So, if "growing up" equates to complete cerebral development, then many of us are late bloomers in the game of life.
Our Bones Fuse Together as We Grow
Bet you didn't know that babies are like bone collectors! Born with approximately 270 bones, these tiny humans have 94 more than the average adult. So, where do the extra bones go? As a child grows, some bones gradually fuse together.
The skull, for instance, starts as multiple pieces that merge to protect the brain more effectively. By adulthood, the total bone count drops to a more manageable 206. It's like a magical, organic game of Tetris inside their bodies.
We All Have a 30-Day Skin Cycle
The skin isn't just sitting there; it's always in constant renovation mode. Every month, the body sheds a completely new layer of the protective organ thanks to the shedding of nearly 30,000 to 40,000 cells per minute—yes, per minute.
This adds up to about nine pounds of cells each year. These old cells make room for vibrant new ones, ensuring that your largest organ is always in tip-top shape. Consider it nature's way of giving you a fresh start over and over again.
Our Eyes Breath As Well
In the fascinating world of the human body, guess what? Your corneas breathe! Unlike other tissues that rely on blood vessels for oxygen, corneas directly absorb oxygen from the atmosphere. How rad is that? During the day, the moist environment of blinking eyes facilitates this O2 uptake.
At night, ambient oxygen from the air does the trick. Why the special treatment? Clarity! Blood vessels would cloud our corneas, hindering our vision. When next you marvel at a beautiful sight, remember that your corneas are inhaling the view, too.
You Can't See It, But Humans Actually Glow
Humans emit a subtle light, similar to bioluminescent animals. This happens through a process called biophoton emission, where chemical reactions in our cells produce a small amount of light.
However, this light is so faint that it can only be seen with very sensitive cameras and is not visible to our naked eyes. This gentle glow is like the light produced by other creatures that shine in the dark. It's a fascinating aspect of how our bodies work, adding to the interesting world of biology.
Wisdom Tooth Eviction Notice
In the realm of the human skull's real estate, the brain takes charge as a demanding landlord, ushering wisdom teeth toward extinction. As our brains expanded, requiring more space, those rear molars had to either go or become dormant.
While our ancestors found these extra teeth essential for chewing raw meat and roots, they've now evolved into a common rite of passage for adults, often necessitating surgical removal. This process reflects the body's constant give-and-take, showcasing how evolution shapes and alters our physical traits over time.
Symphony of Nitrogen Pops
Feel like a maestro as you crack the knuckles, conducting a mini-symphony of snaps and pops? But what's the source of that peculiar noise? Nitrogen bubbles in the joint fluid burst when one stretches their knuckles.
Contrary to popular belief, this habit of popping our knuckles doesn't lead to arthritis or joint issues. It's like giving the fingers a mini firework show, a grand finale every time you get that satisfying pop. It's one of life's simple yet oddly comforting delights.
Ink That Immortalizes
You've likely seen tattoos stick around even though our skin cells are always renewing; why is it so? The secret lies in our immune system. When tattoo needles puncture the skin, they deposit ink particles deep into the dermis, the second layer more stable than the ever-shedding epidermis.
Normally, the immune system sends cells to "eat" the ink, but the particles are too large to fully consume. As a result, the ink becomes a permanent fixture, turning the skin into a lasting canvas for one's life's journey.
Kids Tend to Grow a Bit Faster in the Spring
Hey, what's it with kids seemingly shooting up in height right when the flowers bloom? It's not just your imagination! Studies suggest that children experience the most growth during springtime. Factors like increased sunlight, better mood, and more outdoor activity contribute to it.
They create the perfect environment for the body's growth plates to do their magic. It's like Mother Nature herself is giving kids a high-five, saying, "Go on, grow a little taller!" So, next time you hear birds chirping and see buds blooming, remember: kids are sprouting, too!
The Brain Can Litterally Eat Itself
How does it feel like your brain's eating itself when you're running on fumes? It's not just a metaphor! When deprived of rest, the brain starts to engage in self-cannibalization by activating cells called microglia, which gobble up old or damaged neural connections.
Sounds like a horror movie, right? Fret not; a good night's sleep can halt this cellular buffet. Adequate rest replenishes and renews the brain, ensuring it doesn't have to resort to internal munchies. Hit the hay and give your brain the nourishment it truly craves.
Less Than 2% of the World's Population Has Red Hair, Making It the Rarest Hair Color in the World.
Natural redheads are genuinely a rarity. To possess red hair, both parents must carry the corresponding gene, making it a distinctive genetic trait. Scotland boasts the highest concentration of redheads globally, with Ireland following closely behind.
Interestingly, redheads undergo a unique aging process—they don't turn grey but rather fade into a white hue. This distinct feature sets them apart from those with other hair colors, contributing to the intrigue surrounding the genetics and characteristics of individuals with fiery locks.
We Have Chins Thanks to our Evolution
Has anyone ever stopped to think about why only humans have chins? It's a question that puzzles scientists to this day. While no definitive answers exist, theories abound. Some speculate that the emergence of the chin is tied to diet, speech, or even intimate selection.
Yes, that protruding bit of bone could be a sign of attractiveness! While we may not have all the answers, the presence of the chin sets humans apart in the animal kingdom. When looking in the mirror, appreciate that your chin marks you as uniquely human.
The Slick Perks of Perspiration
Sweat is an often-underrated superhero for our bodily functions. Not only does it serve as nature's air conditioner, but it's also a dynamite detoxifier. Yep, those beads of moisture are packed with antimicrobial proteins that help fight off infections.
Sweating even improves our grip during strenuous activities. When you're soaked after an intense workout or hot day, don't grimace. Instead, give a high-five to your body's built-in cooling and cleaning system. In each salty droplet, you'll find a blend of ingeniously designed benefits.
Debunking the Heat-Head Myth
What's in the age-old saying that we lose most of our body heat through our heads? It turns out it's more myth than science! In reality, heat loss is all about the surface area. Our head accounts for only about 7% of our body's total surface area.
Therefore, it's not the thermal escape artist it's often made out to be. This misconception might've started with some flawed military studies, but rest assured, your head isn't the main culprit in the chill factor game.
Navigating Your Body's Backbone
If our body is a bustling city, consider our spine its main thoroughfare. This 33-vertebrae highway transmits crucial messages between one's brain and the rest of one's body via the spinal cord. Like any well-designed expressway, it has multiple exits (spinal nerves) for information to enter and exit.
It ensures we can kick a soccer ball, taste our grandma's apple pie, or even feel our toes when they hit the sand. Traffic jams or accidents—think herniated discs—can disrupt the flow, emphasizing its irreplaceable role.
The 600-strong Muscle Squad
Does anyone think they've got a game? Meet the 600 muscles that make our bodies the ultimate machines. From your heart's rhythmic thumping to those killer dance moves, these power players are always on the grind. They're divided into three rockstar categories: skeletal, smooth, and cardiac.
Skeletal muscles make us jump, jive, and wiggle; smooth muscles work undercover in organs like our stomach; and cardiac muscles? They're the VIPs, keeping your heart beating 24/7. When you flex, it's prudent to remember the team behind the dream.
Juggling the Breathing-Swallowing Tango
Is there anyone who's tried to inhale a burger? Don't! Our body's design has a safety net that prevents us from breathing and swallowing simultaneously. When we swallow, a nifty flap called the epiglottis covers our windpipe, steering that bite of pizza safely into the stomach and away from our lungs.
Attempting to override this system could lead to choking or aspiration. Worse still, the lungs may become infected by the food particles. This flawless choreography keeps us from turning every meal into a life-or-death situation. Give it up for Mother Nature's safeguards!
Skeletons in the Closet? Fresh Ones Every Decade!
Our skeletons are far from being dusty old frameworks. Believe it or not, you get a brand new skeleton about every ten years! Thanks to specialized cells called osteoclasts and osteoblasts, old bone is broken down, and new bone is formed.
This dynamic remodeling process is like having a construction crew on call 24/7. It helps repair minor fractures and adapts to stress from activities like lifting weights or sprinting. Next time you feel a bit stale, remember that at least your skeleton is keeping things fresh.
The Inch-By-Inch Morning Truth
Have you felt like a basketball player in the morning before but more like a jockey by nightfall? You're not imagining it; we genuinely are taller when we rise and shine in the morning. During sleep, our spine elongates as the discs between the vertebrae soak up fluid.
This expansion gives you an extra half-inch or so of height. But as we go about our day, gravity compresses our spine, making us gradually shorter. It's a daily height rollercoaster that resets with each snooze session.
Tongue: The Unseen Identity Marker
Think our fingerprints are our only unique identifiers? Time to stick out your tongue—for science! Just as no two fingerprints are alike, it turns out each tongue has its own unique pattern of creases, wrinkles, and bumps.
Researchers are actually exploring tongue biometrics as a potential identification method. The idea might sound odd, but it's backed by hard data. So, the next time someone asks you to give your John Hancock, maybe offer a tongue print instead—talk about a conversation starter.
A Great Circulatory Highway
Apparently, we don't need a road trip to rack up some serious mileage—our body has already done it for us! Tucked within the human frame are an astonishing 100,000 miles of blood vessels. If stretched out, they'd circle the earth four times.
These vessels—from gargantuan arteries to minuscule capillaries—create a complex network that carries blood, delivering oxygen and nutrients to every nook and cranny. Next time you marvel at a sprawling freeway, remember: You've got a more intricate system right under your skin.
The Nasal Cycle's Breathing Bias
Have you felt that sometimes one nostril feels clearer than the other? It's not a fluke; it's science! Our body employs a neat trick called the "nasal cycle," which alternates airflow between nostrils approximately every two to four hours.
This system serves multiple purposes: it prevents nostril fatigue, aids in olfaction, and even helps optimize lung function. The mechanism behind it is a swelling and shrinking of erectile tissue—similar to what's in your intimate organs. So, even when it comes to breathing, your body loves variety.
Surprising Muscle Behind Your Grip
It may be the underdog of the hand, but don't underestimate that pinkie finger! Astonishingly, around half of our hand's gripping strength comes from this diminutive digit. Why? The pinkie teams up with the ring finger to act as a power duo.
They provide leverage and stability that help you grasp objects tightly. From hanging onto a subway pole to lifting weights at the gym, the pinkie plays a pivotal role. Next time you make a fist or shake hands, remember that your pinkie's pulling more than its weight.
The Tongue's Unique Anatomy
Your tongue is the ultimate rule-breaker in the world of muscles. Unlike every other muscle in the human body, it doesn't connect to two bones; instead, it's attached to just one and floats freely on the other end.
This anatomical quirk grants it unparalleled skill and range of motion, enabling the complex maneuvers needed for speech, eating, and even that occasional cheeky raspberry. Next time one's savoring a delectable dish or chatting with friends, give a nod to your tongue—the unsung hero of muscular rebellion.
Your Hair's Sleepy-Time Secrets
Human hair might not have a built-in alarm clock, but it sure knows when we're sleeping! Hair growth rates vary throughout the day due to fluctuations in hormone levels. Melatonin, known as the "sleep hormone," plays a key role.
When one hits the sack, melatonin levels rise, signaling to one's hair follicles that it's time to kick into a slower gear. This adaptation helps conserve energy for more essential functions while you're in dreamland. So, while we're catching Z's, our hair is in a different rest mode.
Why Humans Cry Like No Other
Who's been wiping away tears during a touching movie or a heartbreaking breakup? You're engaging in a uniquely human behavior. While other animals might produce tears for lubrication or display distress signals, humans are the only ones who shed emotional tears.
Researchers are still unpacking the science behind it, but one theory suggests that emotional crying may serve as a social signal, encouraging empathy or support from others. So next time one reaches for a tissue, remember that those tears are a hallmark of your humanity.
The Heart's True Coordinates
Forget the poetic license that claims the heart resides on the left; it's more central than one might think! Situated behind our breastbone, the human heart leans slightly to the left, but it's mainly a midline marvel. It's like the star quarterback, always in the middle of the action but favoring one side.
This anatomical truth offers the best position for optimal function, ensuring effective circulation and minimal stress on surrounding structures. Next time someone says, "Heart on the left," you can wink and say, "Well, mostly center stage, actually!"
Beyond the Famous Five Senses
Forget the textbook notion that humans only have five senses—sight, smell, taste, touch, and hearing. The sensory experience expands way beyond that! Ever felt dizzy? Thank your sense of balance, governed by the vestibular system in the inner ear. What about knowing where your body parts are without looking?
That's proprioception at work. Feel the urge to eat or go to the bathroom? Thank your sense of hunger and thirst or even the sense of fullness from your bowels. All told, some experts argue we have as many as 21 senses! Welcome to a more sensory world.
The 20-Pound Armor
Ever considered the heft of your skin? If removed—though let's not think too deeply about that—it would weigh a staggering 20 pounds. Accounting for approximately 16% of our total body weight, the massive skin organ is not just a piece of wrapping paper.
It's one of the multifunctional organs that insulates, protects, and hydrates the entire body. When lamenting those extra pounds on the scale, remember that a good chunk of it is just the body's brilliantly designed shield doing its job.