A new study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition highlights the potential of a Mediterranean-style diet in preventing frailty among older adults.
Frailty, characterized by a decline in multiple physiological systems, affects a significant percentage of the older population and leads to various health issues.
While the benefits of a Mediterranean-style diet are well known, its impact on frailty prevention in older Americans who do not typically follow this diet remained uncertain.
The Study
The research involved 2,384 non-frail adults from the Framingham Offspring Study and evaluated their adherence to a Mediterranean-style diet using a dietary pattern score.
Additionally, antioxidant intake, including vitamins C, E, and total carotenoids, was estimated through a food frequency questionnaire.
The participants’ frailty assessments were conducted over approximately 11 years.
Findings
Mediterranean-Style Diet and Frailty Prevention The study revealed that adhering to a Mediterranean-style diet may prevent the development of frailty in aging individuals.
For each unit increase in the Mediterranean Style Dietary Pattern Score, indicating higher adherence to the diet, the odds of frailty decreased by 3%.
Furthermore, the study explored the relationship between specific antioxidants and frailty.
It found that higher intake of carotenoids, commonly found in brightly colored fruits and vegetables, had the strongest association with reduced likelihood of frailty.
Each additional 10-mg intake of total carotenoids reduced the odds of frailty by 16%. However, vitamin E and C did not show significant associations with frailty prevention.
Expert Insights
Promoting Health Through a Mediterranean-Style Diet Dr. Courtney L Millar, the lead author and Post-Doctoral Fellow at the Marcus Institute of Aging Research, emphasized the potential of a Mediterranean-style diet in preventing frailty.
Following the principles of this diet may help individuals avoid frailty as they age.
Dr. Shivani Sahni, the senior author of the study, highlighted the importance of increasing the consumption of brightly colored fruits and vegetables rich in carotenoids and other bioactive compounds.
These dietary choices can have a positive impact on the health of older adults.
Collaboration and Observational Study
The research was a collaborative effort between the Framingham Heart Study, Boston University, and Tufts University.
The study utilized an observational approach to explore the relationship between a Mediterranean-style diet, antioxidant intake, and frailty.
Conclusion
The findings of this study emphasize the potential of a Mediterranean-style diet in preventing frailty among older adults.
Adhering to this diet, which promotes the consumption of fruits and vegetables, particularly those rich in carotenoids, may offer a valuable preventive measure against frailty.
As the population ages, adopting a Mediterranean-style diet can contribute to healthier and more vibrant lives for older individuals.
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The study was published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.
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