After eating like this for 8 weeks, I looked younger and lost weight.

I ate like this for 8 weeks…

Make your body look younger and lose weight

 

A study has found that switching to a vegetarian diet for just eight weeks can slow down biological aging.

 

This study, conducted by researchers at Stanford University and TruDiagnostic, a biometric aging diagnostic company, involved 21 pairs of identical twins. By comparing one twin on a vegetarian diet and the other on a conventional diet, they aimed to control for genetic factors and isolate the sole influence of diet on biological aging.

 

At the end of the study, biological age estimates based on DNA methylation levels were observed, and participants on a vegetarian diet showed a significant decrease in biological age. DNA methylation is a chemical modification that regulates gene expression, and increased DNA methylation levels have been linked to aging.

Additionally, the vegetarian group was observed to have improved estimated biological age in several organ systems, including the heart, liver, and metabolic system. These changes were not observed in the regular diet group, which consumed meat, eggs, and dairy products.

 

The vegetarian group lost an average of 2 kg more than the regular diet group. This was likely due to the 200 fewer calories consumed per day during the first four weeks, rather than the diet itself. Experts noted that the greater weight loss may have contributed to the biological age difference between the two groups.

 

While this study was short-term and had a small sample size, it suggests that even a short-term vegetarian diet can have a measurable impact on biological aging. However, the researchers noted that it's unclear how much of the differences observed between the two groups can be attributed to dietary differences, and further research is needed to understand the long-term effects of a vegetarian diet and clarify the relationship between diet, weight, and aging.

 

Meanwhile, vegetarians should be mindful of ensuring they're getting enough nutrients. If you're considering a vegan diet, it's important to consult a professional before making any dietary changes.

 

The results of this study were published in the international medical journal BMC Medicine under the title, 'Unveiling the epigenetic impact of vegan vs. omnivorous diets on aging: insights from the Twins Nutrition Study (TwiNS)'.

 

Reporter Ji Hae-mi (pcraemi@kormedi.com)