Discover how eating habits can protect the heart and brain of older adults.

A major study recently published in the scientific journal Nature Aging has found a diet that helps older adults avoid chronic diseases.

Aging is a major risk factor for chronic diseases, particularly cardiovascular disease and neurological disorders. Therefore, promoting healthy aging and longevity is a top priority in public health .

The study, led by the Karolinska Institute and Stockholm University (Sweden), in collaboration with the Del Mar Hospital Research Institute, Carlos III Medical Institute, Pompeu Fabra University, and Autónoma de Madrid University in Spain, followed 2,473 people aged 60 and over for more than 15 years.

The AHEI diet focuses on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, legumes, and healthy fats.

Photo: AI

Participants' diets were assessed through periodic questionnaires and analyzed based on adherence to four diets. Three of these diets were considered healthy, while one was deemed to cause inflammation. Chronic disease status was monitored through health assessments, focusing on cardiovascular, neuropsychiatric, and musculoskeletal conditions.

What is the best diet for the heart and brain of older adults?

The results showed that all three healthy diets were effective in delaying chronic diseases, particularly heart disease and neurological disorders.

These healthy diets all have in common a preference for plant-based foods such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and healthy fats, while limiting red meat, processed meat, and sugary drinks.

Notably, one diet showed superior effects, called the alternative healthy eating (AHEI) diet. Results showed this diet provided the strongest protection, according to the medical news site News Medical.

The difference between the AHEI diet and the other two healthy diets is that the AHEI diet is more diverse in nutrients and requires stricter adherence.

The AHEI diet focuses on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, legumes, and healthy fats, while limiting red and processed meats, sugary drinks, sodium, and refined grains, according to News Medical.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/tim-ra-cach-an-giup-bao-ve-tim-nao-cho-nguoi-lon-tuoi-185250731233404453.htm