Frequent Sweetened Beverage Consumption Is Associated With Accelerated Biological Aging: Evidence From a...

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Nutritional Science
• Microbiome Research

Background:

• Sweetened beverage (SB) intake is linked to chronic diseases, but its impact on biological aging and mechanisms is unclear.
• Understanding factors influencing biological aging is crucial for promoting healthy aging.
• The role of gut microbiota in mediating lifestyle-related aging processes requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between sweetened beverage consumption and biological age acceleration (BAacc).
• To explore the potential mediating role of gut microbiota in the relationship between SB intake and BAacc.
• To identify specific gut microbial signatures associated with both SB consumption and accelerated biological aging.

Main Methods:

• Population-based study of 9104 adults (18-80 years) from the WELL-China cohort.
• SB consumption assessed via food frequency questionnaire; biological age estimated using the Klemera and Doubal (KDM) method.
• Gut microbiota profiled using 16S rRNA gene sequencing; multivariable regression analyses performed.

Main Results:

• Frequent SB consumption was significantly associated with accelerated KDM-derived BAacc (β = 0.29 years).
• This association was more pronounced in participants younger than 55 years.
• Five gut microbial genera were shared between frequent SB consumers and individuals with higher BAacc, suggesting a potential microbiota-related pathway.

Conclusions:

• Frequent SB consumption is linked to accelerated biological aging, especially in younger adults.
• Shared gut microbial signatures indicate a potential microbiota-mediated mechanism.
• Reducing SB intake may be a viable strategy for promoting healthy aging.