A new study suggests that the children of centenarians may owe their longevity to a diet rich in fish, fruits, and vegetables, while low in sugar and sodium. Researchers at Tufts University conducted the first comprehensive analysis of the dietary habits of centenarians' offspring, who share their parents' longevity genes and many life environments.
The study, published in the journal Science, examined data from the ongoing Boston University study that began in 2005, when the adult children were in their 70s. Many are now in their 90s, and the research has shown they have significantly lower risks of stroke, dementia, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.
Comparing the diets of centenarians' offspring with those of people whose parents did not live as long, researchers found that the former consumed higher amounts of fish, fruits, and vegetables, and less sugar and sodium. “These elements may represent behavioural pathways that complement or amplify inherited biological resilience,” the authors said.
Lead author Erfei Zhao emphasised that nutrition is a controllable factor influencing lifespan and healthspan. Co-author Paola Sebastiani noted that the goal is to help people live healthier as they age, regardless of genetics. The study highlights the need to make healthier foods more affordable and accessible to all.
