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Study Identifies AHEI Diet as Key to Healthy Aging

Research spanning 30 years finds plant-based diets with moderate animal-based foods most effective for reaching age 70 in good health.

Overview

  • The Alternative Healthy Eating Index (AHEI) diet was found to increase the likelihood of healthy aging by 86%, making it the most effective dietary pattern studied.
  • Healthy aging was defined as reaching age 70 without chronic diseases while maintaining cognitive, physical, and mental health.
  • The study analyzed over 105,000 participants' diets across 30 years, focusing on eight dietary patterns emphasizing plant-based foods and limiting ultra-processed foods.
  • The Planetary Health Diet Index (PHDI) ranked second, highlighting the role of plant-based eating in both human and environmental health.
  • The findings suggest that adaptable, culturally relevant dietary guidelines could promote quality of life as global aging populations rise.