The Smell Of Age: Eau De Elder

An elderly person’s smell is real. It smells like ageing beer or buckwheat. At 40, it may begin. Our systems progressively degrade skin omega-7 unsaturated fatty acids. How do we handle it?

HowardStern

Jan 3, 2025 - 08:40

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As we age, our bodily chemistry changes. It has an odour akin to buckwheat or aged beer. It may begin as young as age 40. Human bodies progressively change the breakdown of omega-7 unsaturated fatty acids in the skin. How do we deal with it? “Older people often have a distinct smell, which is primarily due to the production of a compound called 2- nonenal. This compound is a byproduct of the breakdown of omega-7 unsaturated fatty acids in the body and tends to increase with age. The smell is often described as slightly musty or grassy,” says Dr Srikrishna R Boddu, consultant general physician, at Kamineni Hospitals.

REASONS FOR THE DISTINCT SMELL

1 Chemical Changes: As people age, their bodies produce more 2-nonenal, which contributes to the characteristic odor

2 Skin Bacteria: The interaction between skin gland secretions and bacteria on the skin can also influence body odor.

3 Environmental Factors: Factors like diet, hygiene, and lifestyle can affect the intensity of the smell.