A groundbreaking new study from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, the University of Copenhagen, and the University of Montreal has confirmed what many experts have long suspected: a plant-based diet is crucial for healthy aging. The 30-year study, which analyzed the diets of over 105,000 adults, found that those who prioritized whole foods and limited ultra-processed foods were significantly more likely to reach age 70 without major chronic diseases.
Researchers used eight well-established dietary patterns, including the Alternative Healthy Eating Index (AHEI), Mediterranean-DASH Diet for Neurodegenerative Delay (MIND), and Planetary Health Diet Index (PHDI). These diets emphasize whole plant foods while varying in their inclusion of animal-based foods. The study found that higher adherence to any of these diets correlated with better health outcomes.
Ultra-processed foods, such as processed meats, sugary drinks, and artificial additives, were linked to a lower likelihood of healthy aging. The AHEI diet had the strongest correlation with longevity, showing participants in the highest quintile of the score were 86% more likely to reach age 70 in good health.
The study’s findings suggest that incorporating more plant-based foods into your diet and limiting ultra-processed foods can promote overall healthy aging. The key is finding a balanced approach that suits individual needs and preferences. As Dr. Anne-Julie Tessier noted, “There is no one-size-fits-all diet.”
Source: https://vegnews.com/harvard-study-plant-based-diet-healthy-aging