Study identifies foods linked to longer life and higher mortality risk

A comprehensive UK study analyzing the dietary habits of over 177,000 individuals reveals that specific foods can either extend or shorten lifespan. Researchers identified six foods and ingredients associated with a lower risk of death, while five drinks and foods were linked to a higher mortality risk. The investigation involved participants from the United Kingdom, who answered questions about their dietary preferences, as opposed to recent meal recall, to ensure more stable and accurate long-term dietary habits were assessed.

The findings indicate that regular soda consumption is associated with a 38% increased risk of death, while diet soda correlates with a 23% higher risk. Sweetened tea and whole milk also show increased mortality risk, with consumption linked to 22% and 18% higher death rates, respectively. Corn flakes also contribute to a 20% higher risk of mortality.

On the other hand, extra virgin olive oil significantly lowers the risk of death by 33%, followed by black pepper (28%), asparagus and broccoli (31%), butternut squash (25%), and eggplant (21%). Whole grain bread, spinach, salad, onions, mushrooms, lentils, beans, and bell peppers also demonstrate positive associations with longer life expectancy.

The researchers emphasize that all foods linked to reduced mortality risk are staples of the Mediterranean diet, which is known for promoting weight management, brain health, and reducing the risk of metabolic diseases.