Our metabolic rate gradually declines as we age, but more research is needed as to how much and why. This study measured the metabolic rates of various major organs and tissues in 3 different age groups - 21-30, 31-50, and 51-73 years old. Results showed the biggest declines in metabolic rate occurred in the 51-73 year old group, especially in the heart and kidneys, and that current measurement tools underestimate this decrease in metabolism.
October 31, 2022
Our metabolic rate in various organs and tissues declines with age.
The heart and kidneys have the highest metabolic rate of all organs, but they start to decrease more significantly after age 51.
Current tools to measure metabolism may overestimate our metabolic rate in older age, and more accurate tools are being tested.
Steps should be taken to preserve our metabolic rate as we age to support optimal health and reduce cellular aging.
Authors
ZiMian Wang, Zhiliang Ying, Anja Bosy-Westphal, Junyi Zhang, Britta Schautz, Wiebke Later, Steven B Heymsfield, Manfred J Muller