The Exact Age When Your Bad Habits Catch Up With You

You know how your 20s are a free pass for every bad decision? Midnight pizza, bottomless mimosas, forgetting what “hydration” means… It’s all fun and games — until it’s not.

According to a new study, the magic number when all those unhealthy habits start cashing in their revenge is 36. That’s the age when researchers say things like smoking, drinking, and not moving your body finally start triggering real health problems — and not just the “I need a nap” kind.

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The long-term study tracked people from birth (in 1959!) into their 60s, and found that by 36, the ones who partied hard and avoided salad started seeing real declines in health and mood.

The takeaway? Sure, you can live it up in your 20s and maybe even your early 30s… but don’t be surprised if your body starts sending angry emails by the time you blow out those 36 candles.

On the bright side, you’ve got time to course-correct. Maybe treat yourself to a gym membership instead of another espresso martini? Or both — we’re not here to judge.