Khaberni - Aging may seem like a slow and gradual process, but recent research suggests that the picture is more complicated. According to a study published in the journal Nature Aging, aging does not proceed in a straight line, but rather goes through two distinct jumps; the first in the mid-forties approximately, and the second in the early sixties.
Researchers, led by a team from Stanford University, tracked molecular changes in 108 adults who provided biological samples regularly over several years. The participants underwent comprehensive analysis that included more than 135,000 biological traits, including RNA, proteins, fats, and components of the microbiome in the gut, skin, mouth, and nose.
The results were striking, as about 81% of the studied molecules showed noticeable changes during two specific periods, on average at age 44, then again at about age 60.
In the mid-forties, researchers observed changes related to fat metabolism, caffeine, and alcohol, as well as indicators linked to heart disease and the functions of skin and muscles.
Although this phase coincides with the pre-menopause period for women, the findings showed that men also undergo similar molecular transformations at the same age, which indicates that the matter is not limited to hormonal changes in women.
In the early sixties, a new wave of changes appeared, including carbohydrate and caffeine metabolism, immune system regulation, and kidney functions, along with ongoing effects related to the heart, muscles, and skin. These transformations may explain why the risk of certain diseases, such as heart disease and Alzheimer's, sharply increases after certain ages, instead of a steady gradual increase.
Why does this happen?
According to studies, aging is a complex process involving genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. The study results indicate that the body does not change at a single pace but goes through phases of extensive molecular reprogramming that affect multiple pathways at the same time.
The researchers liken it to an "internal reset" that occurs at the cellular level, later reflecting on overall health.
Despite the importance of the findings, the researchers acknowledged limitations, notably that the number of participants was relatively limited and that ages ranged only from 25 to 70 years. Therefore, the study calls for broader research, including older age groups and a larger number of participants for a more accurate understanding of the picture.
According to the results so far, if you ever feel that signs of aging appeared suddenly, it might not just be a psychological impression. The data suggest that our bodies indeed go through phases of significant biological acceleration.
But the most important message remains practical: understanding these "time windows" may in the future help to design health interventions – whether through nutrition, exercise, or preventative screenings – to mitigate the risks of aging-related diseases. Aging may be inevitable, but its timing and effects may not be entirely beyond control.
