Study identifies six foods linked to longer lifespan

A new study has revealed lists of foods that may influence lifespan, after researchers identified six foods and ingredients linked to longevity, and five others associated with a shorter life.

The researchers noted that these dietary choices are rarely consumed in isolation. For example, extra virgin olive oil was found to reduce the risk of death by 33 percent, while black pepper lowered it by 28 percent. Home-cooked meals were also shown to benefit health by reducing calorie intake and the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, according to Russia Today.

According to the study, asparagus and broccoli were associated with a 31 percent reduction in mortality risk, followed by butternut squash at 25 percent, and eggplant at 21 percent. Whole grain bread also showed a significant decrease in mortality, as did spinach, lettuce, onions, mushrooms, lentils, beans, and sweet peppers, all linked to longer life.

Conversely, the study found that certain foods and drinks are linked to a higher risk of death, such as soft drinks (soda), diet sodas, sweetened tea, whole milk, and corn flakes.