Middle age is often recognized by more gray hairs, potential weight gain, and possibly a midlife crisis. But new research suggests it also involves two significant molecular changes in our bodies. A study published in Nature Aging indicates that aging doesn’t just happen gradually. Instead, certain molecules and microorganisms in our bodies change notably around ages 44 and 60, leading to noticeable aging peaks.
Most people might assume aging is a slow and steady process. However, research led by Michael Snyder, a genetics professor at Stanford University, reveals that aging features pronounced changes in the mid-40s and early 60s, regardless of which class of molecules is examined.
These molecular shifts are significant for our health. They were found in molecules associated with cardiovascular health, skin and muscle maintenance, immune response, kidney function, among others. Understanding these peaks can shed light on what might occur with your overall health as you age.
With aging, our likelihood of developing age-related diseases like cancer, Alzheimer’s, and cardiovascular conditions increases. But rather than happening gradually, these risks see sharp rises in older age. To examine this, researchers from Stanford University and Nanyang Technological University in Singapore assessed molecular and microbial changes using data from 108 participants aged 25 to 75. These participants donated blood and other biological samples, such as stool, oral, and nasal swabs, regularly for several years. This data allowed researchers to observe age-related changes in over 135,000 molecules and microbes in their bodies.
Their analysis revealed that most molecules and microbes experienced significant changes in abundance during two age ranges: the mid-40s and early 60s. Changes observed in 60-year-olds met expectations, as many age-related conditions increase at that age. However, significant changes found in those in their 40s, affecting both men and women, were unexpected.
While menopause or perimenopause might explain some changes in women in their mid-40s, the study suggests other critical factors affect both genders. These factors should be closely examined in future research, a point noted by first study author Xiaotao Shen, a former Stanford Medicine scholar.
Although it’s still early to understand the full impact of these molecular changes on aging, researchers identified which molecules relate to specific body functions, systems, or diseases. In people in their 40s, changes were linked to metabolism of alcohol, caffeine, and lipids, as well as cardiovascular and skin and muscle health. In individuals in their 60s, changes involved carbohydrate and caffeine metabolism, immune regulation, kidney function, and also cardiovascular and skin and muscle health.
Experts suggest that these changes could mean a decreased ability to process caffeine and alcohol, implying it might be wise to reduce intake. Those in their 40s and 60s might be at a higher risk for cardiovascular issues, and people in their 60s could benefit from boosting their immune health.
While aging is inevitable, there are strategies to manage or slow down some changes, especially those associated with menopause and aging. The simplest approach involves lifestyle adjustments, such as staying active, maintaining a healthy diet and sleep routine, managing stress, and avoiding smoking and excessive drinking.
