Al-Marsad Newspaper – Agencies: A recent Norwegian study stated that a diet can add 13 years to life expectancy.
middle age
Scientists unanimously agree that diet is one of the major influences on a person’s longevity. A poor, low-quality diet will reduce the likelihood that an individual will live longer than a person who follows a balanced diet.
The study, conducted by the University of Bergen in Norway and published in the journal PLOS Medicine, demonstrated that switching to a healthy diet early in life can significantly increase life expectancy.
The perfect 20-year-old’s diet
The researchers suggested that if a woman switches to an optimal diet at age 20, she can expect an increase in life expectancy of regarding 10 years, and if a man starts eating a healthier diet from the age of 20, he can expect a 13-year increase to his lifespan.
Dr David Cutts, an expert in preventive medicine and lifestyle medicine, commented on the study: “The notion that improving diet quality would reduce the risk of chronic disease and premature death has long been established.”
Consume more legumes
Regarding the specific diet required for a long life, the study used the word “optimal”.
The optimal diet can vary depending on the scientists and doctors the individual speaks to.
However, in terms of what extended life expectancy, the study found that consuming more legumes including peas, beans and lentils had an effect, as well as eating more whole grains and nuts.
Katz says the study highlights the importance of a balanced diet and how such a simple act can have huge effects.
A balanced diet, along with exercise and positive lifestyle habits, is the best way to stay fit and healthy, and give you the possibility to live long.
