Category: Human evolution

Over the last 10,000 years, the average human body size has measurably decreased compared to our prehistoric hunter-gatherer ancestors. The question, **how did humans become small?**, requires looking beyond a single cause, revealing a fascinating interplay of environmental shifts, dietary changes, and genetic adaptations that shaped human stature over millennia.

According to the Global Burden of Disease study, back pain is the largest contributor to disability worldwide, a consequence of the upright posture. So, what are some disadvantages to walking upright, beyond just a sore back? Our evolutionary history reveals significant physiological trade-offs that continue to affect modern human health.

During puberty, the human body grows terminal hair in the armpit area, a natural process driven by hormonal changes. Understanding what is armpit hair for reveals insights into its surprising roles in human biology, from friction reduction to chemical signaling.

With an astounding 17,000 touch receptors packed into our palms and fingers, our hands are incredibly sensitive tools for interacting with the world. A deeper understanding of **how do our hands help us** reveals a complex story of dexterity, sensation, and communication that underpins human function and evolution.

While most of our evolutionary history took place in warm, tropical climates, the question of whether we are better suited for hot or cold weather is far from simple. Our unique blend of biological mechanisms and cultural ingenuity allows us to survive—and even thrive—across nearly every biome on Earth.

Genetic research indicates a single mutation 6,000 to 10,000 years ago led to lighter eye colors, helping to explain **Why do people in colder climates have lighter eyes?** compared to those near the equator. This change is linked to reduced melanin production, which offers a different set of advantages based on environment.