Researchers at Tufts University and Harvard School of Public Health found that eating high-quality carbohydrates and dietary fiber during midlife can lead to better health in older women. A study analyzing decades of data from over 47,000 women aged 70-93 in the Nurses’ Health Study found a significant link between carbohydrate quality and healthy aging.
The study showed that intakes of total carbohydrates, high-quality carbohydrates, and dietary fiber in midlife were associated with improved mental and physical health outcomes. In contrast, refined carbohydrates were linked to lower odds of healthy aging. The researchers defined healthy aging as the absence of 11 major chronic diseases, cognitive and physical function impairments, and good mental health.
The findings support previous evidence linking consumption of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes with lower risks of chronic diseases. However, the study’s authors noted that further research is needed to replicate these findings in more diverse cohorts. The study was supported by grants from the US Department of Agriculture and National Institutes of Health.
Source: https://scitechdaily.com/study-reveals-secret-to-aging-well-its-in-the-carbs-you-eat