High-Quality Carbohydrates from Food Groups May Promote Healthy Aging

The Impact of Carbohydrates and Fiber on Aging

Carbohydrate quality and dietary fiber intake during midlife play a crucial role in healthy aging for women. A recent study indicates that consuming high-quality carbs from sources such as whole grains, vegetables, and legumes, along with adequate fiber, can significantly improve the chances of aging healthily.

Key Findings

• High-quality carbohydrates are linked to up to a 37% increased likelihood of healthy aging.
• Consuming refined carbs may reduce healthy aging chances by 13%.
• Replacing refined carbs with whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and legumes can enhance healthy aging prospects by 16%.

What Is Healthy Aging?

Healthy aging refers to living without major chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart failure, COPD, and cancer, while maintaining good cognitive and physical function, alongside mental well-being.

Practical Tips

Nutrition experts emphasize incorporating more high-quality carbs into your diet by choosing whole grains, fresh produce, resistant starch foods like cooled potatoes and legumes, and healthy snacks like nuts and seeds. Avoid refined carbs and added sugars for better health outcomes.

Lifestyle and Aging

Besides diet, lifestyle habits such as staying active, getting enough sleep, avoiding smoking, and limiting alcohol consumption are essential to mitigate aging effects and promote longevity.

Final Thoughts

Adopting a balanced diet rich in fiber and quality carbohydrates, combined with healthy lifestyle choices, can significantly support healthy aging and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Source: JAMA Network Open