😱 Ageing Process Spikes at 44 and 60

Ageing gracefully may be more complicated than you think. Researchers in America have found that ageing isn’t a slow and steady process but rather something that happens in two dramatic spikes, at around the age of 44 and again at 60.

One hundred and eight participants in a study by Stanford University gave biological samples every few months for between one and seven years.

The study identified that the ageing spike at 44 is linked to heart disease and a decline in the body’s ability to process caffeine, alcohol and lipids. The second spike at 60 affects the immune system, ‘carbohydrate metabolism and kidney function.’ The Guardian points out that a previous research study suggested another ageing spike at 78, which this study couldn’t confirm as the oldest participant was a spritely 75.

What’s interesting is that perimenopause was previously believed to be responsible for the biological changes in women during their 40s, but clearly, men also experience this ageing spike.

The Telegraph reported Prof Michael Snyder saying, ‘You really do want to take care of yourself as you approach these periods’. He suggests that a healthier diet will help with the lipid drop and that strength training is important, especially when approaching 60. The good news is that the perception of age is changing. It isn’t unusual now to see people exercising regularly beyond 60 and 70, especially among women. It isn’t just cardiovascular exercise, either, but weight training and team sports.

One of the most recommended pieces of advice is to reduce alcohol consumption to help counter metabolic decline and reduce the risk of serious disease in later life. While these spikes may be sudden, their impact can be lessened by pre-emptive lifestyle changes made in the preceding years. For example, stress management can help mitigate the risks of ageing in your 40s, while focusing on low-impact exercise, balance, and joint-friendly movement can help in the 60s.

Gym owners are in a strong position. In recent years, there’s been a significant shift to preemptive wellness. Advances in fitness technology and wearable devices put health and wellness data in the hands of the individual user. It’s why many people in the industry believe that gyms and leisure facilities can help members reduce their risk of developing serious health problems in later life and help them manage the ones they currently have.

Aesthetic treatments have long dominated the conversation around ageing, but this data helps us understand that ageing is more than just skin deep and that when we understand the significant changes happening as we age, we can also better understand how to manage them more effectively.

➡ You can find out more about the study here