Study identifies foods linked to longer life and higher mortality risk
A UK study of over 177,000 people finds certain foods may extend lifespan, while others are associated with increased risk of death.
Key Takeaways
AIA new study has found that food preferences may significantly impact lifespan, with researchers identifying six foods and ingredients linked to a lower risk of death, and five foods and drinks associated with a higher risk.
The study involved more than 177,000 participants from across the United Kingdom, who answered questions about their food preferences, according to the New York Post.
Researchers asked participants about what they preferred to eat, rather than recalling recent meals, considering preferences to be more stable and accurate for determining long-term dietary habits.
Results showed that drinking regular soda was linked to a 38% higher risk of death, followed by diet soda at 23%, sweetened tea at 22%, whole milk at 18%, and corn flakes at 20%.
The study noted that highly processed foods increase calorie intake and contain ingredients that are not beneficial for health.
Conversely, extra virgin olive oil was linked to a 33% lower risk of death, black pepper to 28%, asparagus and broccoli to 31%, butternut squash to 25%, and eggplant to 21%.
Whole grain bread, spinach, salad, onions, mushrooms, lentils, beans, and bell peppers also showed positive results for longevity.
Researchers emphasized that all foods associated with lower mortality risk are staples of the Mediterranean diet, which supports weight management, brain health, and reduces the risk of metabolic diseases.