Conclusion

After doing this much research, I realized I need to expand on certain topics and narrow down on others. Allow me to explain what I mean by that. By exploring what I originally thought were the two main factors in determining height—genetics and nutrition—I was able to break those down into subtopics.

In genetics, I was able to look at not only different parts of our DNA that could affect our height, but also modifications that could cause certain disorders and change our lives for better or for worse. There was also a lot of scientific terminology and calculations that scientists use that it might seem overwhelming to those who aren't experts on it, including myself.

What interested me more, however, was the sociological standpoint of things. "Nutrition" makes it seem like it's just a need to eat healthier. But it's much more than that when you add socioeconomic status and poverty into the mix. I fell short when it came to comparing heights of different cultures, as I had mainly focused on the Philippines. By focusing on more of the poverty and nutrition subtopics, I can get a better understanding of how other cultures stack up to the Philippines.

That being said, here are some questions I want to hone in on.

• Considering other parts of the world like Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia are in poverty, what are some of the issues related to height and malnutrition there?

• What issues do certain countries face that lead to poverty and malnutrition that other countries don't have to deal with?

• Why do some countries not seem to have an issue with growth or malnutrition despite being poor? Is there a priority of nourishing meals despite the poverty?