New publications
Scientists have finally identified the point at which aging begins
Last reviewed: 01.07.2025

All iLive content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure as much factual accuracy as possible.
We have strict sourcing guidelines and only link to reputable media sites, academic research institutions and, whenever possible, medically peer reviewed studies. Note that the numbers in parentheses ([1], [2], etc.) are clickable links to these studies.
If you feel that any of our content is inaccurate, out-of-date, or otherwise questionable, please select it and press Ctrl + Enter.
There is hardly a single person in the world who is not afraid of their own aging. You can want to grow up, mature, gain life experience... But no one wants to suddenly become old. The main signs of old age have always been considered to be illness, weakness, fear of being useless to anyone. People are afraid of old age, therefore, they have always tried to recognize the moment that becomes destructive for the body. After all, if you know when the aging process begins, there is a chance that you can try to delay the moment.
American scientists have conducted a series of studies that have revealed the secret of the onset of aging of the body. They managed to determine the age at which irreversible processes for the body begin, associated with a decrease in the production of a substance called "myelin". This substance is responsible for the formation of nerve fibers, since the myelin sheath covers the neurons of the brain. The process of human aging begins precisely when myelin begins to be produced more slowly. In connection with this, the functions of the human musculoskeletal mechanism are disrupted, memory deteriorates, and multiple sclerosis may develop.
The study, conducted at the clinic at the American University in Iowa, consisted of taking tests from a number of participants in the experiment (men aged 25 to 80 years) that showed the level of myelin in the body, and using some exercises, the speed of movements was determined. Using a comparative analysis, specialists concluded that the peak of the greatest human activity occurs at the turn of forty years, or more precisely, at 39 years. At this age, the level of myelin in the body reaches its highest point.
Thus, it turns out that the aging process begins when a person turns 39. You can't fight nature, but you shouldn't give up on yourself as soon as your age approaches forty. Aging is generally an irreversible process, but nothing can stop a reasonable person from delaying it as much as possible.
Sociological studies show that people who do mental work age much more slowly. Their brain is constantly searching for and processing new information, and accordingly, the activity of the brain does not decrease, since the substances responsible for the aging process do not stop being produced. Knowledge and active use of foreign languages is very useful. If a person speaks several languages fluently, this means that their memory and vocabulary are in order, and it is not yet time to talk about old age. Sociologists also believe that creativity, especially literary creativity, also has a good effect on the "rejuvenation" of the body. The main condition for maintaining the body in good shape is ensuring mental activity, the presence of which will indicate an interest in life.
Of course, physical activity also has a positive effect on the mature body. Regular training, walks in the fresh air, team games will help you feel more energetic and active even in old age.