“Nutritarian” women who eat nutrient-dense, plant-rich diets age slower, new research finds

A recent study has revealed promising insights into the effects of a nutrient-dense, plant-rich diet, known as the “Nutritarian” diet, which was found to slow biological aging markers while reducing chronic inflammation in women.

These findings were published by researchers from the Nutritional Research Foundation, Northern Arizona University and epigenetics company TruDiagnostic, in Current Developments in Nutrition.

The study investigated long-term adherence to the Nutritarian diet, with emphasis on vegetables, legumes, nuts and seeds

“These findings suggest that the Nutritarian diet not only reduces inflammatory markers but may also slow biological processes associated with aging,” says lead author Deana Ferreri, Ph.D.

“This research aligns with the growing body of evidence supporting the role of plant-rich diets in promoting long-term health.”

Comparisons to standard diet

The study compared 48 women who had followed the Nutritarian diet for five years or more with a control group of 49 women following a standard American diet (SAD).

Using DNA methylation-based tools, researchers found that women on the Nutritarian diet exhibited slower biological aging, as measured by the DunedinPACE epigenetic clock.

This group also had lower dietary inflammatory potential and favorable changes in methylation-predicted immune cell profiles, including lower levels of neutrophils and higher levels of T regulatory cells.

The study also reported reduced epigenetic biomarker proxies for low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, C-reactive protein and blood glucose among Nutritarian diet participants, highlighting the diet’s potential for supporting cardiovascular and metabolic health.

Women’s health took center stage at last week’s SupplySide West trade show in Las Vegas, US. Companies showcased a variety of supplement innovations addressing broad-spectrum concerns, from vaginal health and menopause management to beauty-from-within supplements. On the show floor, Nutrition Insight caught up with Gnosis by Lesaffre, IFF and Kerry.