Human beings undergo significant age-related changes at two significant stages, as revealed by research.
In a study published in the journal Nature Aging, scientists from Stanford University and Nanyang Technological University in Singapore studied 108 individuals over several years, tracking changes in their molecules, including RNA, proteins, and microbiomes.
The research revealed that human aging doesn't progress in a gradual, continuous manner. Instead, most of the molecules under observation showed accelerated, non-linear changes at the ages of 44 and 60.
Xiaotao Shen, an assistant professor in microbiome medicine at Nanyang Technological University and the study's first author, informed CNN that the findings suggest "we are not aging gradually." Certain periods in our lives are particularly crucial for our aging and well-being, he added.
For instance, the capacity to metabolize caffeine significantly decreases – initially around the age of 40, and again around 60. The components responsible for alcohol metabolism also wane, primarily around the age of 40, Michael Snyder, chair of the department of genetics at Stanford and another author of the study, told CNN. These two stages of aging were highlighted.
Snyder noted that people often encounter muscle injuries and notice an increase in fat accumulation between the ages of 40 and 60, associated with lipid metabolism. Moreover, muscle loss becomes pronounced in individuals over 60, a significant issue.
Both age groups saw modifications in proteins that maintain tissue structure, which could potentially explain skin, muscle, and cardiovascular changes, he added.
Risks of diseases surge more rapidly, particularly after the age of 60. The study discovered that people aged 60 or older are more susceptible to cardiovascular diseases, kidney issues, and type 2 diabetes.
Identifying such patterns can aid in the diagnosis and prevention of diseases, according to the study, which also identified "clinically relevant markers" that could improve healthcare management and the general well-being of aging populations.
The study focused on individuals between the ages of 25 and 75 for approximately two years on average. All participants lived in California, were in good health, and represented diverse ethnic backgrounds. Regular samples of blood, stool, skin, and nasal and oral swabs were collected from them every 3 to 6 months.
Given that accelerated aging in women could be attributed to menopause (which typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55), the researchers analyzed separate male and female datasets. Surprisingly, they discovered similar results, suggesting a potential transition point around 55 for both sexes.
Previous research conducted by scientists in Germany and the United States had also identified another "wave" of aging around 75, but the latest research was unable to confirm these findings due to the limited age range of the trial's cohort, Shen told CNN.
Recommendations based on the findings include making lifestyle changes such as drinking less alcohol and exercising more as you reach these critical years in your 40s and 60s. Snyder advises individuals approaching their 60s to monitor their carbohydrate intake and drink plenty of water to support kidney function.
"Pay more attention to yourself at specific time points during your life span," Shen advises.
Maintaining good health becomes increasingly important during these critical periods, specifically in one's 40s and 60s. Reducing alcohol consumption and increasing physical activity can significantly contribute to health preservation during these stages.
Furthermore, individuals approaching their 60s should be mindful of their carbohydrate intake and hydration levels to support kidney function, thereby promoting overall health and well-being.
