Impact of dietary patterns on health and longevity

Recent nutritional research across North America and China has emphasized the significant impact of long-term dietary patterns on cardiovascular health, longevity, and cancer risk.

Initial studies indicate that diets rich in whole foods—such as leafy greens, legumes, nuts, and fruits—support vessel flexibility and reduce hypertension. Research involving cohorts in the United States and China suggests that highly inflammatory diets can increase the odds of poor cardiovascular health by three to four times.

Subsequent analysis of Canadian and American populations has further linked plant-based diets to a 51 percent lower risk of all-cause mortality and a 45 percent lower risk of cardiovascular disease. Conversely, diets high in refined grains, salty snacks, and sugar-sweetened beverages are associated with higher mortality. Notably, a study led by the Mass General Brigham Cancer Institute established a specific link in the US population between daily consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages and a 2.45 times higher probability of developing stomach cancer.