Diet that Promises Longevity: Living the Longest Life Possible
In a pioneering study published in Nature Medicine, researchers have linked a plant-based and balanced diet to a lower risk of chronic diseases in old age. This study, led by Dr. Sabrina Schlesinger from the German Diabetes Center (DDZ), follows data from large cohort studies such as the UK Biobank and collaborations with institutions like the University of Vienna and the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC).
The study emphasizes the benefits of a diet rich in whole foods and healthy fats, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and healthy fats, for overall health and longevity. Conversely, the study shows a clear link between consuming many highly processed foods and a significantly lower chance of reaching the age of 70 in good physical and mental shape.
The research supports the idea that a healthy diet can contribute to a better quality of life in old age, including mental and physical fitness. Those who maintained a diet like the Alternative Healthy Eating Index (AHEI) or the Mediterranean diet had almost twice the chance of being healthy at 75. On the other hand, minimizing sugar, red meat, and highly processed foods in one's diet was stressed as crucial.
Interestingly, the study did not specify the exact age at which people start to feel 'old'. However, it did indicate that maintaining a healthy diet can help individuals remain mentally alert and physically active in old age. This is particularly significant as a study has found that those who reach the age of 100 or older often share certain characteristics and a particular mindset.
While the study was not conducted in Austria, its findings are significant for Austrian health trends. Particularly popular in Austria are pastries and cured meats, and it was found that around one-third of daily calories come from highly processed foods, which is well above the EU average of 27%. This suggests that adopting a healthier diet could have a positive impact on the health and wellbeing of Austrians in old age.
Dr. Nadine Gutmann, an immunologist at the Austrian institute SIPCAN, explains that a daily diet rich in fresh, minimally processed foods can prevent chronic diseases and significantly improve the quality of life in old age. The study's findings support this notion, suggesting that a healthy diet can lead to a longer life with better health and increased mental and physical fitness.
In conclusion, the study in Nature Medicine underscores the importance of a balanced and plant-based diet for maintaining good health in old age. As the population ages, it is increasingly important to understand the factors that contribute to a long and healthy life, and this study provides valuable insights into the role of diet in this equation.
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