The Science Behind Ageing Bursts: Why Do We Age in 3 Rapid Spurts?

Ageing is something we all experience, but have you ever wondered why it sometimes feels like we age in 3 rapid bursts? You might feel fine for years, and then suddenly, in what seems like a short period, you notice physical changes like more wrinkles, grey hairs, or a loss of energy. Recent research from Nature Aging has shown that we can age in bursts—periods of rapid change followed by times of relative stability. 

In this blog, let’s discuss what these “ageing bursts” are and how they can impact our health. 

What Are Ageing Bursts?

Ageing bursts refer to the sudden changes we experience as we grow older, rather than a smooth decline. Think of it like a rollercoaster ride: there are steady parts, but also sharp drops and climbs that can change how we feel and function. But what causes these bursts?

Researchers are using a technique called multi-omics profiling, which looks at different aspects of our biology, including:

1. Genes: Over time, our DNA can change, and certain genes can become more or less active. This can lead to sudden shifts in how our bodies function.
2. Proteins: Proteins are essential for various bodily functions, and their levels change as we age. These changes can signal a rapid shift in our biological processes.

Metabolites: Metabolites are small molecules involved in how our bodies use energy. Their levels can vary greatly during different life stages, reflecting how our bodies adapt.

The Role of Genetics and Environment

It’s important to note that not everyone experiences these ageing bursts at the same time or in the same way. Genetics play a big role in how fast or slow we age. Some people are more resilient to cellular stress, while others might be more prone to rapid ageing changes. Additionally, environmental factors like diet, exercise, and exposure to toxins can speed up or slow down these bursts.

For example, a person who eats a balanced diet, exercises regularly, and avoids smoking might experience fewer ageing spurts compared to someone who doesn’t take care of their body.

Can We Slow Down the Bursts?

While we can’t completely stop ageing, managing the stress our cells experience could help delay these spurts. This might involve:

• Healthy diet and lifestyle: Eating nutrient-rich foods, staying active, and avoiding smoking or excessive drinking are all ways to reduce the stress on your cells.
• Stress management: Finding ways to reduce mental and physical stress can help keep your body’s systems in better shape.
• Preventive healthcare: Regular check-ups and paying attention to your body’s signals can help catch issues early before they lead to bigger bursts of ageing.

Two Ageing Bursts

Ageing at 40

At age 40, several changes in the body become noticeable:

Ageing at 60

By the time people reach 60, the ageing process speeds up, showing in several key areas:

Heart and Blood Vessel Changes: The study connects faster ageing of the skin and muscles to heart disease. There are changes in how “good” cholesterol (HDL) works, which affects cholesterol levels, and shifts in how the body manages fats that are important for cell health. Heart problems like thickening of the heart muscle and reduced function become more noticeable, increasing the risk of heart disease.

Weaker Immune System: Around 60, the immune system weakens significantly, making people more prone to infections and long-term health issues. This is why older adults often need more medical care, like vaccines and immune-boosting treatments.

Kidney and Metabolic Issues: Kidney function begins to decline, making it harder for the body to manage fluids and get rid of waste. Metabolism of sugars and fats also slows down, raising the risk of diabetes and obesity.

What Causes These Ageing Bursts? 

While the research highlights these specific ageing bursts, it also explores the reasons behind them:

This research focuses on ageing up to the age of 70, but there may be another significant burst around 78, which is yet to be explored. Further studies are necessary to determine whether these bursts continue at older ages or if they plateau. 

Ageing Isn’t Always the Same for Every Part of the Body

One of the key findings in the study is that ageing doesn’t happen evenly across all parts of the body. For example, your heart may stay in good shape for many years, but your immune system might go through a quick decline at a certain point. These different systems in your body don’t age in sync—they each have their own ageing rhythm.

During an ageing burst, you might notice a sudden decline in a specific area, like your muscles or memory. These bursts are when your body is most vulnerable to health problems like heart disease or cognitive issues.

How Can We Use This Information?

Knowing that ageing happens in bursts can help us better manage our health as we grow older. By recognising these patterns, we can find ways to strengthen our bodies and maintain well-being. This might involve adopting healthier habits, such as regular exercise, balanced nutrition, managing stress, and staying mentally active, all of which can help improve our quality of life as we age.

It is important to note that ageing is a natural process—but, we can take steps to help our bodies age better. By eating well, staying active, managing stress, and connecting with others, we can support our health during these changes. 

If you want to understand more about the anatomy of facial ageing, reach out to Artiste Plastic Surgery. Our Specialist Plastic Surgeon, Specialist Plastic Surgeon, Dr Jack Zoumaras, has a deep knowledge in facial ageing and anatomy. 

Disclaimer: At Artiste Plastic Surgery, our Plastic Surgeons led by Dr Jack Zoumaras have been trained to the highest possible degree. All surgery has risks and it is always advised to get a second opinion. Risks are very real and we cannot guarantee any result. Results are illustrated as a guide only. All risks are managed and any need for revision surgery or complications (1-5%) can be managed by our specialist plastic surgeons.

Any statements on how you will feel is based on Level V Evidence:

Level V:  How you will feel after plastic surgery varies between individuals, depending on psychological and physical factors. Our internal research is based on how patients in our practice feel after surgery.

The blogs are not a substitute for a medical consultation and do not form as part of the doctor to patient relationship.