Resource type:
Peer review
Link:
This study used data from 2,888 Chinese adults (aged 60+) to examine the effects of vegetarian diets on healthy aging. Over a 6-year follow-up, vegetarians had lower odds of achieving healthy aging (adjusted OR = 0.65) compared to omnivores, especially those with lower diet quality. Vegans had the lowest odds (OR = 0.43). Vegetarian diets were linked to higher risks of chronic disease, cognitive impairment, and physical limitations, especially if low in nutritional quality. Findings suggest that some inclusion of animal foods may benefit older adults, and diet quality is critical in assessing the health impacts of plant-based diets.
Photo Credit: Canva