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Diet and overall survival in elderly people
A Trichopoulou1, A Kouris-Blazos, M L Wahlqvist
1National Centre for Nutrition, National School of Public Health, Athens, Greece.
BMJ (Clinical Research Ed.)
|December 2, 1995
Summary
A traditional Mediterranean diet significantly improves survival in the elderly. Adhering to this healthy eating pattern was associated with a 17% reduction in overall mortality, highlighting its protective effects.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Nutritional Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Dietary patterns significantly influence health outcomes in aging populations.
- The traditional Mediterranean diet is recognized for its potential health benefits.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of a specific dietary pattern on overall survival among elderly individuals.
- To determine the association between adherence to a Mediterranean diet and mortality risk.
Main Methods:
- A cohort study was conducted involving 182 elderly residents from three rural Greek villages.
- Dietary intake was assessed using a validated, semiquantitative food frequency questionnaire.
- A diet score was developed based on eight key components of the traditional Mediterranean diet.
Main Results:
- A one-unit increase in the Mediterranean diet score was significantly associated with a 17% reduction in overall mortality (95% CI: 1% to 31%).
- This finding suggests a strong protective effect of the diet on longevity.
Conclusions:
- Adherence to a diet aligning with established health criteria, specifically the Mediterranean diet, predicts improved survival in older adults.
- These findings underscore the importance of dietary interventions for promoting healthy aging.