Does a Better Figure Mean Higher Intelligence?

 A recent U.S. study suggests that women with an “hourglass” figure—characterized by full hips and a narrow waist—tend to be more intelligent than those with “apple” or “barrel” shapes, and their children often score higher on cognitive tests. Scientists propose that the abundance of Omega-3 fatty acids in the hips of hourglass-shaped women may contribute to this phenomenon. The findings were published in the journal Evolution and Human Behavior.

The Ideal Waist-to-Hip Ratio

Previous research has shown that men are instinctively drawn to women with a significant difference between their waist and hip measurements. While theories suggest such women may have easier pregnancies, smoother deliveries, and longer lifespans, the reasons behind this male preference have remained unclear.

Now, a new study conducted by researchers from the University of Pittsburgh and the University of California, Santa Barbara offers potential answers. The study analyzed data from 16,000 women and girls, including their body measurements and cognitive test scores.

The results revealed that women with a pronounced waist-to-hip difference scored significantly higher on cognitive tests than those with less contrast. Their children also performed better on similar tests. These women were not necessarily thin; rather, their waist-to-hip ratio typically ranged between 0.6 and 0.7.

Researchers suggest that fuller hips and thighs store more fat, which likely contains higher levels of Omega-3 unsaturated fatty acids—crucial for fetal brain development during pregnancy.

The Physiological Advantage of “Curves”

In contrast, fat around the waist contains Omega-6 fatty acids, which are less beneficial for fetal brain development and may increase the risk of diabetes and heart disease. Women who are too thin or have a “barrel” shape may lack these essential fats.

The researchers propose that this provides a physiological explanation for why men are attracted to women with curvaceous figures. The study offers a biological basis for the appeal of a “curvy” body.

If these findings hold true, the study implies that voluptuous figures like that of Italian actress Sophia Loren may correlate with high intelligence, while slender, narrow-hipped stars like Nicole Kidman might lack these critical fatty acids.

Although further validation is needed, psychologist Paula Hall remarks, “This study suggests that attractive women may also be more intelligent, indicating that women with great figures might excel in areas beyond child-rearing.” Physiology expert Dr. Harry Witchel adds, “So far, we can say that women with good figures hold an advantage in Western societies, rooted in their physiological strengths.”

Teenage Mothers and Fatty Acid Deficiency

The study also sheds light on why children born to teenage mothers often score lower on cognitive tests. Young mothers may not have accumulated sufficient beneficial fatty acids.

Scientists note that the cognitive development of children born to teenage mothers tends to be weaker, and the mothers themselves may experience impaired cognitive growth compared to women who give birth later. However, children of young mothers with better figures do not exhibit this trend, showing stronger cognitive performance.