The Fragile Wisdom

Women’s physiology evolved to aid reproduction, not to reduce disease. Any trait—however detrimental to post-reproductive health—is preserved in the next generation if it increases the chances of having offspring who will survive and reproduce. For this reason, the author argues, many common diseases are especially difficult for women to prevent.

Poor nutritional status of adolescent girls can further deteriorate once they
become pregnant. An adult woman needs energy only to support her basal
metabolism and physical activity, but an adolescent must, in addition, allocate
energy for ...