A model built on meta-analyses and Global Burden of Disease data (PLOS Medicine, 2022): a sustained switch from a typical Western diet to an optimal one from age 20 could add more than a decade of life. The largest gains come from more legumes, whole grains and nuts and less red and processed meat.

PLOS Medicine · 2022Open accessPMID 35134067

Key facts

Who was studied: US population (life-table model)
Main result: A sustained change from a typical Western diet to the optimal diet from age 20 would increase life expectancy by 10.7 years for US women (95% UI 8.4–12.3) and 13.0 years for men (95% UI 9.4–14.3).
Evidence level: Moderate · NutriGrade (autorzy): ogólna jakość dowodów dla diety zoptymalizowanej – umiarkowana (6,5 pkt)
Authors: Fadnes LT et al.
Full text: PubMed Central (free)DOI 10.1371/journal.pmed.1003889

Editorial summary by Vegan Guide based on the publication. This is not medical advice.

Study details

Limitations

Meta-analyses present associations, not causation.
Dose-response meta-analyses were unavailable for some food groups, adding uncertainty.
Uncertain time to full effect and uncertain effects of eggs, white meat and oils.

Funding: Autorzy nie otrzymali specjalnego finansowania na tę pracę

Conflict of interest: declared