Best diet for longevity? Harvard shows 30 years of study
Researchers at Harvard University analyzed the diet of more than one lakh people for 30 years. They found that there was more likely to reach 70 of chronic diseases without those on the alternative healthy food index (Ahei).

In short
- A 30 -year study shows that Ahei diet may help in better aging
- Fruits, vegetables, nuts and legumes and healthy fats are high
- A healthy diet affects midlife aging rate, researchers say
Your diet does not make you feel healthy right now, it affects your health later in life.
A new study suggests that adding more vegetables, whole grains and healthy fat to your food can improve your chances of aging. The study was published in the Monthly magazine Nature Medicine reviewed by the colleague.
Researchers at Harvard University analyzed the diet of more than one lakh people for 30 years.
Participants regularly completed the dietary questionnaire, which researchers scored on how participants followed eight healthy diet patterns: alternative healthy food index (Ahei), alternative Mediterranean Index (AAD), Dietary approach to prevent high blood pressure (AAD), Dietary approach, halterfinational hallativar-hallativ (Mindegerevelative Healthid). (PHDI), empirically inflammatory diet pattern (EDIP), and empirical diet for hyperinsulinmia (EDIH).
Each of these diets emphasizes high intake of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, unsaturated fats, nuts, and beans, and some include fish and some dairy products such as healthy animal-based foods such as fish and some dairy products.
Researchers also assessed the intake of ultra-produced foods of the participants, which are manufactured industrially, are often artificial materials, pairs of sugars, sodium and unhealthy fats.
They found that those who follow alternative healthy food index (Ahei) were mentally and physically fit and 86% more likely to reach the age of 70 without chronic diseases.
What is this diet?
The Ahei diet developed by Harvard is focused on:
- Fruits and vegetables
- Whole grains: whole wheat flour, Bulgur (torn wheat), oatmeal, brown rice, quinoa and popcorn.
- Nuts and legumes
- Healthy fats such as avocado, eggs, fish and olive oil.
It also limits unhealthy foods such as red and processed meat, sugars drinks and excess salt.
The study compared eight different healthy diets, and showed all the benefits, AHEI was most effective for promoting long-term health.
āThere is no one size-fit-all diet. A healthy diet can be adapted to fit personal needs and preferences,ā said Professor Anne-Jaili Tesier at Montreal University.
Why is this thing?
Of the 1,05,000 participants, about 9,700 out of only 9,700 study fulfills health norms of healthy aging. Research states that what we eat plays a major role that we are at a good age.
Harvard University professor Frank Hu explained, āOur study sees how diet affects peopleās ability to live independently and enjoy a good quality of life because they are with age.ā
Experts have long reduced the risks of diseases such as diabetes, heart disease and dementia to healthy food. While this study does not prove the cause and impact, it combines strong evidence of the fact that a balanced diet can help people stay active and independent as they grow up.
āMore plant-based foods, with moderately healthy animal-based foods, can support healthy aging,ā said Professor Marta Guasch-Ferr of Copenhagen University.