The Key to Healthy Aging: Current Approaches to Dietary Patterns

2nd International Health Sciences Congress, Mardin, Turkey, 14 - 17 May 2026, pp.436-441, (Full Text)

Publication Type: Conference Paper / Full Text
Doi Number: 10.30546/19023.978-9952-610-55-0.2026.100.1110
City: Mardin
Country: Turkey
Page Numbers: pp.436-441
Van Yüzüncü Yıl University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Dietary patterns use guidelines to shape the diets of individuals or groups, emphasizing that overall food choices, rather than individual foods, determine health outcomes as people age. The common Western Diet, high in processed foods, refined sugars, and saturated fats, is associated with cognitive decline, telomere shortening, and greater risk of chronic disease in older adults. Several traditional and evidence- based diets, such as the Blue Zone diets (especially the Okinawa diet), Mediterranean, Nordic, DASH, and MIND, are key to healthy aging. These diets prevent obesity, cardiovascular diseases, and neurodegenerative disorders, support gut microbiota health, and enhance quality of life due to their plant-based and anti-inflammatory properties. Limiting ultra-processed foods and adopting these natural dietary patterns are central strategies for healthy aging.