A Healthier Diet, A Longer Life: The Impact of Dietary Changes on Life Expectancy

In a compelling study using data from the UK Biobank, researchers have unveiled the significant impact of sustained dietary changes on life expectancy. Shifting from unhealthy eating habits to the recommended Eatwell Guide patterns is associated with an impressive gain of 8.9 and 8.6 years in life expectancy for 40-year-old males and females, respectively. Even more striking, embracing longevity-associated dietary patterns could extend life by 10.8 and 10.4 years for males and females. The key to these gains lies in consuming more whole grains, nuts, and fruits, while reducing intake of sugar-sweetened beverages and processed meats. Considering that unhealthy diets contribute to over 75,000 premature deaths annually in the UK, these findings underscore the vital role of dietary choices in shaping our longevity. The study emphasizes the potential health benefits achievable through sustained dietary improvements and provides valuable insights for policymakers crafting effective health policies.

https://www.nature.com/articles/s43016-023-00868-w

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