A new study shows that people may age faster at two specific times in life, instead of slowly all the time. Researchers found that the first period happens around age 44, and the second around age 60.
The study followed 108 adults for several years. Scientists looked at more than 135,000 molecules in their bodies, including those in the blood, skin, nose, mouth, and gut. They found that most molecules changed sharply at one or both of these ages.
The first spike, around age 44, affected molecules linked to fat metabolism, caffeine and alcohol breakdown, heart health, and skin and muscle function. The second spike, around age 60, affected molecules connected to sugar metabolism, immune system, kidney health, and continued heart and muscle changes.
The first surge happens around the time women experience menopause, but it was also seen in men. This suggests the changes are not only due to reproductive changes but other body processes too.
Researchers say these findings are important because they show that aging may not be slow and steady. Instead, there are times when the body ages faster. Knowing when these peaks happen could help doctors develop treatments to slow aging.
The study was published in Nature Aging. Scientists note that more research is needed with larger groups and different ages to fully understand how these peaks affect everyone.
While we all get older every day, this research suggests there are two key ages in the mid-40s and around 60 when aging speeds up. Scientists hope this knowledge can help people stay healthier for longer.
