“Old People Smell” Is Biologically Real — Here’s the Science Behind It and How to Reduce It

  1. Dietary Intervention:

    • Add mushrooms to your meals regularly, especially shiitake and oyster varieties.

    • Eat foods rich in antioxidants (e.g., berries, green tea, leafy greens) to support skin health.

  2. Skin Care Routine:

    • Use body washes containing alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or lactic acid to gently exfoliate and promote skin renewal.

    • Avoid heavily fragranced products that may worsen the odor or irritate aging skin.

  3. Lifestyle Choices:

    • Stay hydrated to support natural detoxification.

    • Engage in regular physical activity to enhance circulation and skin regeneration.

    • Manage stress and get adequate sleep—both affect hormonal balance and skin health.

Conclusion

“Old people smell” is not a myth or a result of neglect—it’s a natural part of aging driven by changes in the skin’s chemistry, specifically the buildup of 2-nonenal due to lipid oxidation. While it may not be entirely avoidable, proactive choices in diet and skincare can significantly reduce its intensity.

Mushrooms, thanks to their unique nutrient profile, offer a promising, natural way to counteract this process from the inside out. So, whether you’re approaching midlife or simply planning ahead, adding mushrooms to your plate might be a small step with big benefits—not just for how you smell, but for how you age.

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