Swedish study ties diet quality to healthier blood markers

Among 1,769 Swedish adults who were 60 or older, more nutritious eating patterns corresponded with a generally more favorable mix of blood measurements. Researchers scored participants’ reported diets using established approaches, then examined 54 indicators covering metabolic function, inflammation, blood vessels and processes involving the brain. The analysis adjusted for personal and lifestyle differences such as age, sex, smoking, exercise, education and calorie consumption.

Mediterranean-style eating and a high Healthy Eating Index score were associated with more folic acid, which supports the creation and repair of DNA. The Mediterranean measure also corresponded with less GFAP, a protein under investigation for its connection to changes in brain cells. Diets rated as having less inflammatory potential were linked with reduced insulin and leptin. Several other inflammation-related measurements were lower as well. Two diet measures also tracked with less GDF15, a protein that can increase when cells experience certain forms of stress.

The study captured food intake and bloodwork at a single point, so it cannot establish that diet produced these differences or slowed aging. Some links diminished after existing chronic illnesses were considered. Even so, the favorable results clustered around eating patterns rich in produce, beans, whole grains, nuts and fish.