Five Diets Extend Life by 5 Years
A new study identified five diets linked to increased longevity of up to five years. While the complete list wasn't specified, plant-based, Mediterranean, and other whole-food-focused diets appear to be top contenders. The research reinforces that dietary patterns, not just calorie counting, are key to healthy aging.
- The five dietary patterns identified in the recent *Science Advances* study are the Alternate Healthy Eating Index (AHEI), the Alternate Mediterranean Diet (AMED), the Healthful Plant-Based Diet Index (hPDI), the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet, and the Diabetes Risk Reduction Diet (DRRD). - The research analyzed diet and genetic data from 103,649 participants in the UK Biobank over a median follow-up period of 10.6 years. - For men, the Diabetes Risk Reduction Diet (DRRD) was linked to the largest increase in life expectancy at age 45, adding an estimated 3 years. - For women, the Alternate Mediterranean Diet (AMED) was associated with the most significant gain, extending life expectancy by approximately 2.3 years from age 45. - A key finding was that the longevity benefits of these healthy diets were consistent even for individuals with a genetic predisposition to a shorter lifespan. - The component with the strongest link to reduced mortality was a higher intake of dietary fiber. - Conversely, the consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages showed the strongest positive association with an increased risk of death. - All five diets share common principles, including a high intake of whole grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and legumes.
