Researchers from the University of Sydney examined how different eating patterns affect the bodies of older adults, according to News Medical.
The study involved 104 participants between the ages of 65 and 75 and was published in the journal Aging Cell.
Participants were divided into four groups following different types of diets.
Some consumed more plant-based foods, while others ate higher amounts of animal fat or more complex carbohydrates.
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The researchers measured the participants’ biological age before and after the trial using blood samples and other health data.
Rapid changes
The results showed that several participants experienced improved biological age markers after just four weeks.
The most significant changes were observed among individuals who consumed more complex carbohydrates and followed a more plant-based diet.
In contrast, no clear improvements were found in the group that consumed large amounts of animal fat.
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According to the researchers, the body’s markers can respond quickly to dietary changes, particularly in relation to metabolism and inflammation.
Researchers urge caution
Although the findings appear promising, the researchers do not believe the study proves that aging can be slowed or reversed.
They point out that the changes may represent temporary reactions in the body rather than evidence that the participants actually became biologically younger.
The researchers therefore emphasize that longer-term studies are needed to determine whether the changes persist over time.
Sources: News Medical and Aging Cell.
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