A 30-year study found that a healthy diet in midlife increased the likelihood of healthy aging.

Summary

A 30-year study published in Nature Medicine found that eating a primarily plant-based diet with minimal processed food significantly increases the chances of reaching age 70 without chronic diseases.

Researchers analyzed over 105,000 people’s diets and found that less than 10% achieved “healthy aging.”

Diets rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low in processed meats—like the Mediterranean and Alternative Healthy Eating Index diets—showed the strongest benefits.

Experts emphasize combining healthy eating with exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding smoking.