Khaberni - A new medical study revealed that regularly consuming certain foods and drinks helps slow down the aging of the heart and blood vessels.
BMC Medicine reported that researchers from King's College London found that regular consumption of foods like tea, coffee, berries, nuts, whole grains, and olive oil can significantly contribute to reducing long-term risks of cardiovascular diseases.
The results came after analyzing data from more than 3,100 adults listed in the British TwinsUK registry for 11 years, where scientists used a new dietary index called the "Polyphenol Index" - which is based on the assessment of consumption of 20 types of plant foods rich in polyphenols. Researchers concluded that individuals who scored high on this index had healthier readings of blood pressure and lipid levels, including increased high-density lipoprotein (HDL).
For the first time, the team analyzed hundreds of polyphenolic metabolites in urine samples of the participants, which serve as a biological proof of the actual intake of these plant compounds. The results showed that individuals who had higher levels of these metabolites had lower indices for the likelihood of developing cardiovascular diseases.
The researchers emphasized that even simple but sustained dietary changes – such as consuming a cup of tea or a handful of berries daily – can slow the age-related increase in heart disease risks. However, they stressed the need for more research to confirm these findings.
