How healthy eating helps seniors

A small, but mighty study about the impacts of healthy eating on aging produced promising, yet head-turning results. At the conclusion of the observation, the participating women experienced a decrease of up to 11 years in their biological age by simply following stricter dietary guidelines than they were accustomed to.

Researchers at Virginia Commonwealth University keyed in on methylation, a chemical reaction in the body at the protein and molecular levels. They sought to answer the question about the relationship between a methylation-supported program and longevity. The work, published in Aging, focused on a group of women with an average age of 57.9. Following an eight-week program of dieting, good sleep, exercise and downtime, along with supplements of probiotics and phytonutrients, the results raised some eyebrows.

At the end of the trial, five participants recorded a reduction in their biological age by nearly five years.

Biological age accounts for the age of a person’s body at a cellular level. Lifestyle, genetics and environmental influences can factor in determining one’s biological age. Conversely, chronological age only deals with the number of years a person has lived since being born.

What they ate

For the study, researchers provided a diet rich with methylation support. Multiple servings of liver and eggs are staples in this approach. Other menu items included dark leafy greens, such as kale and spinach, broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, colorful vegetables, beets, pumpkin and sunflower seeds.

For methylation adaptogen, participants ate berries, rosemary, turmeric, garlic, oolong and green tea. Animal protein was grass-fed and organic, free of hormones or antibiotics.

Physical activity

In addition to the dietary guidelines, the study’s participants were given prebiotics and probiotics and exercised regularly. They were asked to do about 30 minutes of body movement five days out of the week. At least seven hours of sleep, stress management and breathing exercises were also part of the regimen and study on aging.

A gentle walk around a park and some moderate lifting at home would suffice to meet the daily exercise requirements outlined in the study.

Bigger picture on findings

The study provided further proof that dietary supplements and lifestyle interventions can work wonders on the body, especially an aging one. It also explores the possibilities of programs that work on DNA methylation, with the growing promise that it is both effective and safe.

By decreasing a person’s biological age, folks may be able to reduce and postpone the effects of aging. By doing so, they can also minimize the health and economic burdens often associated with aging.

This investigation frames the question of aging through the lens of underlying body mechanisms instead of disease-driven aging.

Healthy living and eating at Hollenbeck Palms

Hollenbeck Palms offers an ideal environment for people to lead a purposeful life. It is also a space where residents age in place with no shortage of amenities and programs, including our Memory Enhancement Center, Health Care Center services and dining options and venues.

Hollenbeck Palms’ versatile menu uses fresh ingredients that are seasonal, nutritious and always delicious. Residents can opt for vegetarian meals and consult with a dietitian to help meet their specific needs.

From the Grand Dining Room to the Skyline Bistro, residents enjoy daily three-course meals, casual dining and even a decadent indulgence from time to time.

Hollenbeck Palms sample menu:

• Beet salad with apples, roasted red beets, granny smith apples, honey mustard dressing topped with blue cheese.
• Gourmet spinach salad with fresh spinach, eggs, mandarin oranges, bacon, almonds and mushrooms in a honey-garlic vinaigrette.
• Seaweed salad with stringy wakame seaweed with minced garlic, chili, ginger, sesame oil, rice vinegar and toasted sesame seeds.
• Furikake baked Atlantic salmon topped with olive oil, onions, wasabi powder and furikake.
• Thai beef curry with beef cubes, eggplant, fish sauce and vegetables in a curry sauce.

Once here, new residents delight in life at Hollenbeck Palms provides so many choices, including plenty of healthy food options, wellness activities and community engagement with their peers. Hollenbeck Palms is proud to be home to individuals who share a desire to lead purposeful, healthy and fulfilling lives.

Want to learn more about our Los Angeles retirement community? Email via [email protected] or by phone at (323) 307-4505.