Science study debunks myth of metabolism slowing after age 30

A large-scale study published in the journal Science has challenged the long-held belief that metabolism begins to slow down significantly after age 30. Contrary to previous assumptions that metabolic slowing contributes to weight gain in middle age, researchers found that metabolism remains relatively stable throughout most of adulthood.

An international team of scientists analyzed data from over 6,400 individuals across 29 countries, ranging in age from eight days to 95 years. The findings indicate that metabolism is most rapid during the first year of life, with infants consuming up to 50 percent more energy than the average adult due to intense growth and nervous system development. After reaching adulthood around age 20, the metabolic rate stays largely consistent until age 60, at which point a noticeable decline begins.