New research shows that a plant-based diet may help slow down the aging process in women

A plant-based diet may help women slow down the biological aging process and effectively reduce chronic inflammation levels in the body, according to a new study. The study, conducted by Northern Arizona University, the Nutrition Research Foundation and epigenetics company TruDiagnostic, focused on the potential benefits of a "Nutritarian" diet. This eating pattern emphasizes foods rich in vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients, such as vegetables, legumes, nuts and seeds.

The study looked at 48 women who followed a Nutritarian diet for more than five years and compared them with 49 women who ate a diet that focused on processed foods, red meat and high sugar and fat. Researchers used advanced DNA testing to track markers of aging and inflammation in the body and analyze the impact of these different dietary patterns on cellular health.

Research results suggest that long-term adherence to such a plant-based diet may have a significant effect on slowing the aging process and controlling inflammation. This is consistent with a previous Stanford twin study, which found that a vegan diet improved certain markers of cellular aging in just eight weeks. In addition, an eight-year study in Taiwan covering nearly 13,000 people also found that a healthy plant-based diet can help delay the biological aging process of the human body.

Key research findings

Slowing down of biological aging: Women in the Nutritarian diet group showed a slowdown in biological aging as measured by the DunedinPACE epigenetic clock, which means that their healthy lifespan may be extended and they will enjoy more years of high-quality and healthy life.

Reduced chronic inflammation: The level of chronic inflammation in this diet group was significantly lower than that in the control group, as shown by lower scores in the Dietary Inflammation Pattern Index (EDIP), Dietary Inflammation Index (DII), and decreased levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), indicating that chronic inflammation Lower risk of inflammatory diseases.

Improved cardiovascular and metabolic health: The Nutritarian diet group had healthier LDL cholesterol, blood sugar, and body mass index (BMI) levels, which are generally associated with lower risks of cardiovascular disease and diabetes, showing that their metabolic and cardiovascular health are both better. Improved.

Immune system improvement: The diet group had a more favorable balance of immune cells, showing lower levels of inflammatory neutrophils and higher levels of regulatory T cells, potentially reducing the risk of diseases caused by immune dysregulation, such as heart disease and autoimmune diseases. immune diseases.

IGF pathway effects and aging: Study participants also showed lower levels of markers for the insulin-like growth factor (IGF) pathway, which affects cell growth and is closely linked to aging and cancer risk. Lower IGF signaling may help delay aging and reduce cancer risk.

Wider implications The findings suggest that following a nutrient-rich, plant-based diet over the long term may help slow the biological aging process and reduce chronic inflammation, thereby extending healthy years and reducing the risk of age-related diseases. Future research is expected to further explore the specific effects of specific plant foods in the Nutritarian dietary pattern on delaying aging and controlling inflammation.

Lead author Deana M. Ferreri, Ph.D., commented: "These findings suggest that a Nutritarian diet not only reduces inflammatory markers but may also slow down the aging process. This provides new evidence supporting the role of plant-based diets in promoting long-term health."