A recent study conducted by researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine has shed light on the potential benefits of a vegan diet on biological aging. The research, which involved 21 pairs of identical twins, found that following a plant-based diet for just eight weeks could slow down the rate of biological aging.
The study used DNA methylation, a reversible genetic modification, as an indicator of the body’s aging process. One twin from each pair adhered to a vegan diet, while the other continued consuming meat and dairy products. After the eight-week period, the twins who followed the vegan diet showed reduced biological age estimates.
As the researchers noted, “This study suggests that a short-term vegan diet is associated with epigenetic age benefits and reduced calorie intake.” They added, “The use of epigenetic biomarker proxies (EBPs) highlights their potential to assess the impacts of diet and facilitate personalized nutritional strategies for healthy aging.”
Notably, the research revealed that the heart, liver, and hormonal and inflammatory systems experienced comparatively less biological aging in the vegan group. This suggests that eliminating animal products from one’s diet, even for a short period, may have positive effects on various bodily systems.
Both groups in the study followed carefully planned diets, with meals prepared for them during the first four weeks and self-prepared meals based on nutritionist guidance for the remaining four weeks. The vegan group also experienced greater weight loss, losing an average of two kilograms more than their omnivorous counterparts.
While these findings are intriguing, it’s important to consider some limitations of the study. The sample size was relatively small, and the research did not account for potential long-term nutrient deficiencies that can occur with plant-based diets. Additionally, the study was partially funded by Beyond Meat, a plant-based meat alternative company, and the Vogt Foundation, which supports animal protection and plant-based initiatives.
The researchers acknowledge that the relationship between dietary choices and biological aging requires further investigation. Currently, there is no evidence to suggest that vegans have longer lifespans than non-vegans. However, this study builds upon previous research that found cardiovascular health benefits from an eight-week vegan diet.
As interest in plant-based diets continues to grow, this research provides valuable insights into how quickly dietary changes can impact the body. The study’s authors emphasize the need for future research, stating, “Future research should explore the long-term effects of vegan diets on epigenetic health and overall well-being, considering the importance of adequate nutrient supplementation.”
While more research is needed to fully understand the implications of these findings, this study offers an intriguing glimpse into the potential health benefits of adopting a plant-based diet, even for a short period.
The research has been published in BMC Medicine.
