Ten Different Healthy Dietary Patterns Associated With Slower Biological Ageing

Biological ageing refers to changes in the body's tissues and systems that may not correspond exactly to a person's age in years. Researchers study biological-age markers to understand how nutrition, physical activity, smoking, sleep and other factors relate to the pace of ageing and the risk of chronic disease.

The reported DZNE study compared ten dietary patterns considered healthy, including patterns such as Mediterranean-style and Nordic-style eating. The findings suggest that more than one dietary approach can be associated with healthier biological-age measures, provided the overall diet supplies adequate nutrients and emphasises nutritious foods.

This is an association, not proof that a specific diet can reverse ageing or prevent every age-related disease. The effects of diet depend on food quality, portion sizes, overall energy intake, medical conditions and other lifestyle factors. Biological-age measurements are also research tools and do not provide a complete picture of an individual's health.

A practical approach is to eat a varied diet rich in vegetables, fruits, legumes, whole grains, nuts and suitable protein sources while limiting excessive salt, added sugars and highly processed foods. People with diabetes, kidney disease, food allergies or other conditions may need individualised dietary guidance.