Composite dietary antioxidant index associated with delayed biological aging: a population-based study

Area of Science:

• Nutrition Science
• Gerontology
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Epidemiological evidence on the link between dietary antioxidants and biological aging is limited.
• Understanding factors influencing biological aging is crucial for public health.
• The composite dietary antioxidant index (CDAI) quantifies overall dietary antioxidant intake.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between the CDAI and biological aging.
• To address the gap in epidemiological data regarding diet and aging.
• To explore the potential of dietary interventions for healthy aging.

Main Methods:

• Utilized data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (NHANES) (2001-2018).
• Calculated CDAI from 24-hour dietary recalls.
• Determined biological age using PhenoAge algorithms and weighted multiple regression models.

Main Results:

• A significant inverse relationship was observed between CDAI and PhenoAge.
• Each standard deviation increase in CDAI correlated with a 0.18-year decrease in biological age.
• This association remained consistent across various demographic and lifestyle factors.

Conclusions:

• Higher CDAI scores are associated with delayed biological aging.
• Dietary interventions targeting antioxidant intake may promote healthy aging.
• Findings support the role of diet in modulating the aging process.