Diets for longevity often focus on a plant-based diet. However, a study in China has linked meat consumption to a long life, particularly among underweight older people.
Science knows that meat is a rich source of certain amino acids that appear to affect a signaling molecule called mTOR, which contributes to the aging process.
Several studies suggest that reducing meat consumption, or eliminating it, can promote longevity, as well as reduce the risk of diseases such as cardiovascular diseases. On the other hand, plant-based diets have been associated with a higher incidence of fractures and malnutrition.
These problems can be especially problematic for older people, who tend to have weaker bones and recover poorly after surgery. The explanation is given to, by Kaiyue Wangfrom Fudan University, in Shanghai (China).
To better understand the link between nutrition and longevityin a new study recently in The American Journal of Clinical NutritionWang and his colleagues collected data from a centralized Chinese health database on people over the age of 65.
From the profiles, the researchers analyzed the 5,203 participants in the database, who were at least 80 years old in 1998 and were free of cardiovascular disease, diabetes and cancer. Of these, around 80% said they were meat consumers, while the remainder said they followed plant-based diets consisting mainly of vegetables and cereals, but also, sometimes, non-meat animal products.
It was concluded that the meat eaters were more likely to live to age 100 than their vegetarian, pescetarian and vegan counterparts.
Meat is key… in thin people
However, this was only statistically significant when body weight was taken into account. Of vegetarians who had a body mass index of less than 18.5 (defined as underweight) in 1998, 24% reached age 100, compared with almost 30% of underweight meat eaters, with the odds appearing to increase even further if they reported eating meat every day. THE The same trend was not observed in people with higher weight.
It’s true that a diet rich in meat has been linked to obesity. However, research also supports the animal-based proteins for building stronger muscles and bones, which can be particularly helpful for people who are underweight.
Consuming lots of vegetables is also essential. The researchers also found that longevity was generally higher among participants who reported consuming any amount daily. But even more important is having a balanced diet.
