ARLINGTON, VA -- Consuming more whole grains can help add up to 13 years to your life, according to a new study published in the journal
PLOS Medicine. The study, “Estimating Impact of Food Choices on Life Expectancy: A Modeling Study,” showed that people of any age could increase longevity by incorporating more whole grains, fruits, and vegetables into their diet.
The research study showed the impact of replacing a “typical western diet” with an “optimized diet” of more whole grains, legumes, fruits, vegetables, and nuts. A typical western diet was defined as focused on red meat and processed foods.
Women who change their eating habits could increase their lifespan by more than ten years; for men, the increase is up to thirteen years. The largest gains in longevity are tied to increased consumption of whole grains along with legumes.
Researchers concluded that “health gains are predicted to be larger the earlier the dietary changes are initiated in life.” Their model for this study focused on those eating optimally by age 20. However, it also showed that eating optimally at age 60 could add eight to nine years to someone’s life, and that even beginning to eat more plant-based foods, like U.S.-grown brown rice, at age eighty can add about three and a half more years of life.
Currently, only five percent of Americans consume enough whole grains according to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans.
“The nutritional value of whole grains and their role in maintaining a healthy diet and life are undeniable,” said Cameron Jacobs, USA Rice director of domestic promotion. “This study once again demonstrates the direct link between whole grains and positive health benefits at any age. From reducing risk of disease and providing fiber, to extending someone’s life span, whole grains do it all.”
Read the published study
here.