Why Your Body Changes With Age (and Why That Pizza Might Suddenly Upset Your Stomach) 🍕
Some foods you used to enjoy without a second thought suddenly… don’t sit right anymore. That Friday-night pizza you loved? Now it leaves you bloated or uncomfortable.
You’re not imagining it — your body changes across your lifetime, and with it, so do digestion, intolerances, and even allergies. Here’s why 👇
🔄 How Your Body Changes Over Time
Childhood & Adolescence 👧👦
Immune system is still developing → some children outgrow allergies like dairy or eggs.
Nutrient needs (protein, calcium, iron) are higher to support rapid growth.
Early Adulthood (20s–30s) 💪
Peak strength, fertility, and energy.
Lactose intolerance can appear as the enzyme lactase naturally declines.
Midlife (40s–60s) 🔥
Hormonal changes like menopause, andropause, or thyroid shifts affect digestion, weight, and energy.
Gut health and microbiome diversity change → sometimes triggering new intolerances.
Injuries heal slower and recovery takes longer.
Later Life (60+) 🌿
Muscle mass and bone density decline unless countered with strength training and good nutrition.
Appetite drops, but protein, calcium, vitamin D, and B12 needs increase.
Some intolerances fade as the immune system shifts.
🧬 Why Intolerances & Ailments Appear (or Disappear)
Gut Microbiome: trillions of bacteria in your gut shift with age, affecting digestion and immunity.
Enzyme Decline: less lactase (for dairy) or diamine oxidase (for histamine foods).
Hormones: menopause and testosterone decline change metabolism and tolerance to certain foods.
Immune Aging: allergies may fade, but autoimmune risks rise.
Lifestyle: stress, poor sleep, processed foods, and alcohol all affect tolerance.
The Science Bit 🔬
Lactase decline → up to 70% of the global population loses the ability to digest lactose effectively after childhood.
Gut diversity → studies show reduced microbiome diversity with age, linked to digestive issues and intolerances.
Cortisol (stress hormone) rises with poor sleep or chronic stress, which can worsen gut permeability (“leaky gut”) and make reactions stronger.
✅ What You Can Do
Track your symptoms → see if certain foods consistently cause issues.
Focus on gut health → fibre, fermented foods, hydration.
Prioritise strength training & protein → offset age-related muscle and bone loss.
Get tested if needed → an intolerance test or bloodwork can give clarity.
👉 The takeaway: your body’s needs change across your life. Instead of getting frustrated about that pizza (or whatever food it is for you), focus on adjusting your habits, nutrition, and training so your body works with you — not against you.