It’s no revelation that our health malfunctions as the years advance. But a study from Stanford University has challenged the traditional idea that we steadily age over time. The research team extensively monitored molecular changes over a period of up to seven years in people (male and female) aged 25 to 75, and discovered two spikes in our ageing – one about 44 and the other at 60.

Professor Michael Snyder, an expert in genetics and senior author of the study says: “You really do want to take care of yourself as you approach these periods. Eating better will help with the drop in lipid metabolism which shows up in the 40s. And strength training is important, especially as you hit your 60s, when there is a loss of muscle mass. Always try to track yourself with specific check-ups, so you can make sure things are going fine during these periods.”

The Telegraph London