Planetary health diet linked to lower disease risks

Recent observational studies suggest that adherence to a "planetary health diet"—which emphasizes plant-based foods like fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, and nuts while limiting ultra-processed foods—is linked to significant health benefits.

An analysis of 66,892 postmenopausal women from the Women’s Health Initiative found that high adherence to this dietary pattern was associated with an approximately 28% lower risk of cardiovascular disease, including coronary disease, stroke, and heart failure. The findings were presented at the NUTRITION 2026 meeting of the American Society for Nutrition.

Separately, a 12-year study of over 69,000 adults in the UK Biobank reported that those following a similar planetary health diet had a 12% lower risk of stroke and a 13% lower risk of both depression and anxiety. The study also noted a 19% reduction in the likelihood of developing multiple neurological or psychiatric conditions simultaneously, potentially linked to slower cellular aging.