What causes 'old people smell'? Know the science behind it and how to prevent with a single superfood

Ever wondered why some older adults develop a distinct musty odour—often called "old people smell"? Scientists now have an answer, and it’s more biological than you think. The culprit is a compound called 2-nonenal, which builds up on the skin due to ageing and declining antioxidants. But here’s the surprising part: experts say a natural remedy exists—and it’s found in your kitchen. Mushrooms, packed with powerful compounds like ergothioneine and spermidine, may help reduce this age-related odour from the inside out. Learn how this superfood could help you age gracefully—and smell fresher, too.


What is 'old people smell'

The scent often described as a mix of mothballs, wet cardboard, basement air, and dead leaves is not just a stereotype but it’s a real biological phenomenon. According to Leslie Kenny, longevity expert and founder of Oxford Healthspan, the root cause lies in a chemical compound called 2-nonenal.


Cause behind ‘old people smell’


This compound forms through lipid peroxidation, a process where fats on the skin’s surface oxidize or “rust” due to a lack of antioxidants. As we age, our body produces fewer natural antioxidants, and cellular turnover slows down, allowing these oxidized fats to linger longer on the skin resulting in that distinct, musty smell. “Old people smell comes from lipid peroxidation on top of the skin,” Kenny explains. “If you don’t have enough antioxidants, that smell builds up.” She likens the process to the body rusting, where sebum, the oily substance our skin produces and oxidizes into 2-nonenal.

This phenomenon isn’t the same as body odour, which can be washed away. Kenny clarifies: “You can’t remove it by bathing more or masking it with perfume. The cells aren’t turning over fast enough, and the oxidized fats remain embedded in the skin.”





Why ageing skin is more vulnerable to the scent

As we age, our hormone levels decline, and the skin loses its youthful ability to regenerate. Lower levels of estrogen, testosterone, and growth hormone reduce cell turnover, allowing oxidized skin oils and 2-nonenal to build up over time. Kenny notes that the scent tends to worsen during perimenopause and menopause, when these hormonal drops accelerate.



Mushrooms might help fight ageing and eliminate ‘old people smell’ from within

As reported, Kenny says there’s a natural, food-based solution and it starts with your plate. Mushrooms, particularly shiitake and oyster varieties, are rich in two powerful compounds:

• Ergothioneine: A rare amino acid and antioxidant that prevents lipid peroxidation and reduces inflammation.
• Spermidine: An organic molecule that activates autophagy, the body’s cellular “clean-up” process that removes damaged components and supports renewal.

Together, these compounds tackle the root of the smell by reducing oxidation and promoting skin cell turnover. Mushrooms do more than help you smell fresh—they support overall health and longevity. According to research cited by Kenny:

• Diets rich in mushrooms may cut the risk of cognitive decline in half.
• Spermidine supports autophagy, which plays a crucial role in slowing aging, boosting immunity, and maintaining metabolic health.
• Mushrooms are linked to lower risks of breast and prostate cancer, reduced blood pressure, and improved bone strength.
• In Asia, mushroom extracts are routinely used in cancer care due to their high vitamin D and beta-glucan content.

Why experts recommend mushrooms for middle age and odour prevention


“You want to eliminate the smell from the inside out,” says Kenny. Adding ergothioneine-rich foods like mushrooms to your diet especially during middle age—can prevent or even reverse the buildup of 2-nonenal. And for older adults already noticing a change, incorporating mushrooms regularly may support better cell turnover and reduce the lingering scent that bathing and perfumes can’t fix. In Kenny’s words, mushrooms are “the perfect food to combat this smell.” And as a bonus, they may just help you live longer, too.




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