What you put into your body affects your health and can even contribute to your longevity.
A new study found higher intakes of black tea and fruits, such as berries, citrus fruits and apples, improved healthy ageing.
The research was led by Edith Cowan University, Australia; Queen's University Belfast, Northern Ireland; and the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health in Boston, Massachusetts, analysed the diets and health outcomes of more than 86,000 participants over 24 years.
It found fruit and black tea consumption lower the risk of frailty, impaired physical function and poor mental health, which are all signs of unhealthy ageing.
There are benefits to drinking black tea
PADr Emily Prpa, registered nutritionist at Yakult commented on the findings. She said: “Emerging research linking higher intakes of black tea, berries, citrus fruits, and apples to healthy ageing is particularly exciting when viewed through the lens of gut health.
"These foods are all rich in polyphenols - natural plant compounds that not only act as antioxidants but also feed our beneficial gut microbes.
"Once polyphenols reach the colon, they’re metabolised by the microbiota (community of microbes living in our gut) into bioactive compounds that can reduce inflammation, support immune function, and even influence brain health."
The doctor explained the link between the gut and the brain and how this can affect ageing.
These foods can help the brain and are often staples in longevity-promoting diets. Dr Prpa continued: "What’s fascinating is how this gut-brain connection plays into ageing.
"A healthy gut microbiome, nourished by polyphenol-rich foods, can support cognitive function by producing short-chain fatty acids and modulating neurotransmitters. There’s increasing evidence that this helps preserve memory and reduce age-related cognitive decline.
"Beyond tea and fruits, other polyphenol-dense 'superfoods' like extra virgin olive oil, dark chocolate (in moderation), and fermented foods also contribute to a diverse and resilient gut microbiome.
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The study showed berries are great for longevity
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"These are cornerstones of many longevity-promoting diets, including the Mediterranean and Blue Zones diets, which are both consistently linked to longer, healthier lives.
"We’re only beginning to uncover the full extent to which our gut health shapes the ageing process, but foods that support microbial diversity are emerging as a powerful, natural tool for promoting longevity.”
The Mediterranean diet is often praised for its health benefits, and a longevity expert recently shared the best life-extending breakfast, which is inspired by this lifestyle.
