Latest news with #AlternativeHealthyEatingIndex
Time of India
3 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
7 anti-aging superfoods scientists swear by for a sharper brain in your 70s
Do you wish to remain sharp, active, and mentally strong even when you are in your 70s? According to a new Harvard study, the foods you eat during midlife might help make all the difference, even if you're only beginning to eat more healthily in your 40s or 50s, as per a report. Why Your Midlife Diet Matters More Than You Think Harvard researchers published a paper in the journal 'Nature Medicine' in March, which revealed that adopting a plant-based diet can boost a person's health and increase their chances of living a longer life, even if they did not start the healthy diet until their middle age, as reported by CNBC. The study found that there was an association between eating plant-based and healthy ageing, according to the report. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Bargain Prices on Unsold Container Houses in Benguet - Check Them Out! Shipping Container Homes | Search Ads Search Now Undo ALSO READ: Putin avenges Operation Spiderweb embarrassment — Ukrainian spy chief assassinated in broad daylight What Does 'Healthy Ageing' Mean in the Study? In the Harvard study, healthy agers were defined as participants who were aged 70 years or above, were free of chronic conditions like heart disease, and had excellent cognitive, mental, and physical health, as reported by CNBC. Live Events What's the Best Diet According to Harvard's Study? The researchers conducted their study on 105,000 participants between the ages of 39 years and 69 years over the span of 30 years to find out how their diets in midlife impacted their overall wellness, according to the report. ALSO READ: Apple to buy Perplexity, valued at $14 billion? Dan Ives says iPhone maker can't build its own AI In the study, the participants were assigned a score based on how well they followed eight eating patterns that the researchers had shared, as per the report. After conducting the experiment, the new study found that the Alternative Healthy Eating Index , which was developed by Harvard researchers, is the diet that was most associated with the highest positive health outcomes, as reported by CNBC. Harvard Health Publishing wrote that, 'People whose AHEI score fell in the highest quintile had an 86% greater chance of healthy aging at age 70 and a 2.2 times greater chance of healthy aging at age 75 compared to those whose AHEI score fell in the lowest quintile,' as quoted by CNBC in its report. ALSO READ: Inside the $10 million handbag: Why Jane Birkin's Hermès purse made auction history What Are the 7 Foods That Support Healthy Ageing? Here is the list of food to be consumed and avoided under the Alternative Healthy Eating Index, as compiled by CNBC. The study recommends having more of these 7 types of foods: Fruits Vegetables Whole grains Legumes Nuts Unsaturated fats Low-fat dairy products (moderately) What Foods to Cut Back on or Skip for Better Ageing? The research found that reducing consumption or refraining from eating these foods was beneficial: Sugary beverages Red meats Trans fats Sodium Processed meats The Big Takeaway From Harvard Researchers The study said, 'Our findings suggest that dietary patterns rich in plant-based foods, with moderate inclusion of healthy animal-based foods, may enhance overall healthy ageing, guiding future dietary guidelines,' as quoted by CNBC in its report. FAQs What are the top benefits of eating plant-based in midlife? Better heart health, lower risk of chronic illness, and improved mental sharpness later in life, as per the Harvard study. Can diet help me live longer? A healthier diet like AHEI can increase your chances of a longer, more independent life.
Time of India
5 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
Why the 40s are the best time to start the longevity lifestyle, according to experts
A recent study reveals that dietary choices in midlife significantly impact healthy aging. Adhering to diets rich in plant-based foods, with moderate intake of healthy animal products, increases the likelihood of reaching age 70 without chronic diseases and maintaining cognitive, physical, and mental well-being. Conversely, high consumption of ultra-processed foods diminishes these chances. Let's just confess it. All of us are wondering how movie stars like Tom Cruise, Angelina Jolie, Salma Hayek, and Jennifer Aniston are looking almost half their age! No, it's not just about the cosmetic procedures they might have done. It's deeper than that. What you eat plays a crucial role in your health. And if you want to age like fine wine, the key is on your plate! A new study has found that what you eat in your 40s and 50s could shape how well you live into your 70s and beyond. Researchers from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, the University of Copenhagen, and the University of Montreal have found that sticking to certain diets can significantly increase the odds of aging without chronic diseases, while maintaining physical, cognitive, and mental health. The findings are published in Nature Medicine . Let's unlock the secret to longevity and healthy aging. Diet and healthy aging Longevity is not just about how many years you live, its about the quality of life. The researchers have found that a healthy diet rich in plant-based foods, with low to moderate intake of healthy animal-based foods and lower intake of ultra-processed foods, was linked to a higher likelihood of healthy aging. defined as reaching age 70 free of major chronic diseases and with cognitive, physical, and mental health maintained. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Fastest Selling Plots of Mysore from 40L | 40+ Amenities PurpleBrick Learn More Undo This study is among the first to examine multiple dietary patterns in midlife in relation to overall healthy aging. 'Studies have previously investigated dietary patterns in the context of specific diseases or how long people live. Ours takes a multifaceted view, asking, how does diet impact people's ability to live independently and enjoy a good quality of life as they age?' co-corresponding author Frank Hu, Fredrick J. Stare Professor of Nutrition and Epidemiology and chair of the Department of Nutrition at Harvard Chan School, said in a statement. The study To understand the link between healthy eating and longevity, the researchers looked at data from the Nurses' Health Study and the Health Professionals Follow-Up Study. They examined the midlife diets and eventual health outcomes of more than 105,000 women and men aged between 39 and 69 over the course of 30 years. The participants were asked to complete dietary questionnaires regularly. The researchers looked at how well participants adhered to eight healthy dietary patterns. Alternative Healthy Eating Index (AHEI) Alternative Mediterranean Index (aMED) Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay (MIND) Healthful plant-based diet (hPDI) Planetary Health Diet Index (PHDI) Empirically Inflammatory Dietary Pattern (EDIP) Empirical dietary index for hyperinsulinemia (EDIH). These diets were high on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, unsaturated fats, nuts, and legumes. Some of them also included low to moderate intake of healthy animal-based foods such as fish and certain dairy products. The researchers also looked at how the participants consumed ultra-processed foods, which are industrially manufactured, often containing artificial ingredients, added sugars, sodium, and unhealthy fats . The findings The researchers found that 9,771 participants (9.3%) aged in a healthy manner. Sticking to any of these healthy diets was linked to overall healthy aging, including cognitive, physical, and mental health. The AHEI diet scored the most, due to its ability to prevent chronic diseases. The participants who scored highest in AHEI adherence were 86% more likely to age healthfully by 70, and had a 2.2 times greater chance of healthy aging at 75, compared to those with the lowest adherence. The AHEI diet was rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, legumes, and healthy fats. It was low in red and processed meats, sugar-sweetened beverages, sodium, and refined grains. No Ozempic Here: Lizzo Reveals Real Story Behind Her Transformation PHDI followed the AHEI diet. This diet prioritizes human and environmental health by focusing on plant-based foods and minimizing animal-derived products. The study also showed that higher intake of ultra-processed foods, especially processed meat and sugary and diet beverages, was associated with lower chances of healthy aging. 'Since staying active and independent is a priority for both individuals and public health, research on healthy aging is essential. Our findings suggest that dietary patterns rich in plant-based foods, with moderate inclusion of healthy animal-based foods, may promote overall healthy aging and help shape future dietary guidelines,' co-corresponding author Marta Guasch-Ferré, associate professor in the Department of Public Health at the University of Copenhagen and adjunct associate professor of nutrition at Harvard Chan School, said. 'Our findings also show that there is no one-size-fits-all diet. Healthy diets can be adapted to fit individual needs and preferences,' lead author Anne-Julie Tessier, assistant professor in the Department of Nutrition at the University of Montreal, researcher at the Montreal Heart Institute, and visiting scientist at Harvard Chan School, added.
Time of India
5 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
Harvard study reveals the longevity diet that can add healthy years to your life, even if you start in your 40s
Harvard researchers tracked over 100,000 people for 30 years and found that midlife diet choices impact long-term wellness. Those prioritizing fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes were more likely to avoid disease and stay mentally and physically fit into their 70s. The study reinforces the powerful role of diet in promoting longevity—even when started after age 40. A Harvard study published in Nature Medicine reveals that switching to a plant-based diet in midlife can significantly improve your chances of aging healthily. (Image: iStock) Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads The 70-Year-Olds With No Chronic Illness: What's Their Secret? The Diet That Makes the Difference Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads It's Never Too Late to Eat Right If you've spent your younger years indulging in processed snacks, sugary drinks, and the occasional red meat binge, don't despair just yet. A new Harvard-led study published in Nature Medicine reveals that switching to a healthier, plant-based diet — even in your 40s or 50s — can dramatically boost your chances of aging gracefully and living per a report from CNBC Make It, the study, which tracked the dietary habits and health outcomes of over 105,000 individuals between the ages of 39 and 69 for three decades, offers new hope for those seeking a late-life health revival. It shows that midlife dietary changes can still play a critical role in shaping not just how long we live, but how well we defined 'healthy agers' as individuals who, by age 70 or older, remained free of chronic illnesses like cardiovascular disease and displayed strong cognitive, mental, and physical health. Participants who followed more wholesome, nutrient-rich eating habits were significantly more likely to join that elite to Harvard Health Publishing , those with the highest adherence to the Alternative Healthy Eating Index (AHEI) — a scoring system developed by Harvard to measure diet quality — had an 86% greater likelihood of reaching age 70 in good health. Even more striking, their chances of aging well at 75 more than doubled compared to those with the lowest restrictive fad diets, the AHEI emphasizes a balanced and sustainable approach. The diet encourages generous consumption of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, unsaturated fats, and low-fat dairy in moderation. On the flip side, it recommends limiting or avoiding sugary drinks, processed meats, trans fats, sodium, and red meats.'Our findings suggest that dietary patterns rich in plant-based foods, with moderate inclusion of healthy animal-based foods, may enhance overall healthy aging , guiding future dietary guidelines,' the study makes this study especially encouraging is its timing. Many people in their 40s and 50s assume it's too late to make a difference — that their earlier choices have locked in their fate. But this research proves otherwise. Making a shift toward plant-forward meals now could mean more than just an extra few years — it could mean an older age free of disease, full of vitality, and rich in mental if you're contemplating that leafy green salad or finally adding quinoa to your pantry, take this as your cue. Your future self — still sharp, strong, and vibrant at 75 — just might thank you for it.
CNBC
5 days ago
- Health
- CNBC
7 science-backed foods that help you feel younger and sharper into your 70s
A recent study conducted by Harvard researchers found that adopting a plant-based diet can boost your health and increase your likelihood of living a longer life — even if you don't start until middle age. The paper, published in the journal "Nature Medicine" in March, found an association between eating plant-based and healthy aging. For the study, healthy agers were defined as participants aged 70 or older who were free of chronic conditions like heart disease and had excellent cognitive, mental, and physical health. Researchers followed 105,000 participants between the ages of 39 and 69 over the course of 30 years to determine how their diets in midlife impacted their overall wellness. Participants were given a score based on how closely they followed eight eating patterns. The study found that the Alternative Healthy Eating Index, which was developed by Harvard researchers, is the diet most associated with the highest positive health outcomes. "People whose AHEI score fell in the highest quintile had an 86% greater chance of healthy aging at age 70 and a 2.2 times greater chance of healthy aging at age 75 compared to those whose AHEI score fell in the lowest quintile," according to Harvard Health Publishing. "Our findings suggest that dietary patterns rich in plant-based foods, with moderate inclusion of healthy animal-based foods, may enhance overall healthy aging, guiding future dietary guidelines," the study notes.
The Hindu
31-05-2025
- Health
- The Hindu
How the diet shapes healthy ageing
Across the world, the population of older adults has increased over time. And over 80% of them suffer from at least one chronic health disorder. The U.S. Centre for Disease Control (CDC) and World Health Organisation (WHO) point out that promoting global health is a priority. They both point out that a better-quality diet is beneficial for the prevention of heart attacks, diabetes and premature death. The Mediterranean Diet, much lauded by health researchers as an ideal one, uses plant-based foods — vegetables, fruits, legumes and natural oils, moderate amounts of poultry and eggs — and avoids red meat. People there who practice this diet do live longer and healthier lives. Indeed, a typical food in India, with wheat or rice, dal, sabji with lots of greens, and curd/buttermilk, (and for non-vegetarians: eggs and fish but little or no meat), is essentially Mediterranean. Towards this, two recent articles highlight the best food that we should take for healthy ageing. One in the April 3 issue of the journal Nature, titled 'The Best and Worst Foods for Healthy Ageing', points out that people who eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables are more likely to reach the age of 70 without major physical or cognitive impairments. This article offers the advice that the recommendation to eat plenty of fruits and vegetables is well-founded: a large-scale 30-year study on dietary habits shows that diets high in these foods are associated with healthier ageing. The massive study itself is published in Nature Medicine, titled 'Optimal dietary patterns for healthy ageing'. The message here is 'get more fibre in your diet, eat more vegetables, pulses such as beans, lentils, and eat less fats and animal meat', suggesting that this practice will help senior citizens live a healthier life. In this study, health experts from the U.S., the U.K., Canada, and Denmark analysed data from two major studies: the Nurses' Health Study (tracking hospital workers and medical professionals) and the Health Professionals Follow-up Study (examining men's diet and lifestyle linked to serious illnesses such as cancer and cardiovascular diseases). By looking at the records of 70,000 women and 30,000 men, they uncovered key insights into how our eating habits affect our health. A healthful plant-based diet was seen to be highly associated with healthy ageing. Researchers examined how long-term adherence to plant-rich dietary patterns, moderately supplemented with healthy animal-based foods, enhances healthy ageing. They examined the association between eight healthy dietary patterns. One, called Alternative Healthy Eating Index (AHEI), focuses on a scoring system that evaluates diet quality based on its alignment with recommendations for a healthy diet (greens, low fat, low sugar, and avoid foods causing cancer and high blood pressure). The second, called the Alternate Mediterranean Index (aMED), is adapted for populations outside of the Mediterranean region, and offers long term benefits for the elderly. The third, called Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH), is primarily focused on controlling high blood pressure. Others, such as the Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay (MIND) and healthful plant-based Diet (hPDI), also emphasise a plant-rich and nutrient-dense diet that avoids highly processed foods. In summary, the groups suggest that a diet with plant-rich foods, plus a moderate amount of animal-based foods, is best for living longer and healthier.
