Harvard Diet Found to be Key for Healthy Aging in Middle Age

As people age, maintaining good health becomes increasingly important. According to a study published in *Nature Medicine*, the “Harvard Diet” pattern has emerged as the most beneficial for preserving health in middle age.

The study, which spanned 30 years and involved more than 105,000 men and women, focused on eight dietary patterns and found that the Harvard Diet was the most effective. Researchers discovered that individuals who ate healthy in their middle years were more likely to enjoy better health in their 70s. The findings revealed that those with the highest Alternative Healthy Eating Index (AHEI) scores had a 86% higher chance of maintaining good health at 70, and a 2.2-fold increased likelihood of staying healthy at 75.

According to the researchers, the Harvard Diet consists of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, beans, and healthy fats, while it limits the intake of red and processed meats, sugary drinks, sodium, and refined grains.

Marta Guasch-Ferré, a senior researcher and Associate Professor of Public Health at the University of Copenhagen, stated, “Our results show that a plant-based diet, like the Harvard Diet, which includes moderate amounts of meat-based foods, can promote healthy aging and aid in the development of future dietary guidelines.”

The Alternative Healthy Eating Index (AHEI) was developed in 2002 by the U.S. Department of Agriculture as an alternative to traditional dietary recommendations.