A 30-year study examined the relationship between dietary patterns and healthy aging, finding that higher adherence to certain dietary patterns, such as the Alternative Healthy Eating Index (AHEI), was associated with greater odds of healthy aging.

The study followed over 100,000 participants and identified specific foods linked to healthy aging, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, unsaturated fats, nuts, legumes, and low-fat dairy products, while higher intakes of trans fats, sodium, sugary beverages, and red or processed meats were inversely associated. The study suggested that plant-based diets, with moderate inclusion of healthy animal-based foods, may enhance overall healthy aging, especially for women and individuals with certain lifestyle factors.

Source: Nature Medicine