New Study Links ‘Planetary Health Diet’ to Lower Risk of Major Diseases and Mortality
LONDON, UK – A large-scale analysis of nearly 170,000 individuals in the US and UK, alongside a meta-analysis of 37 previous studies encompassing over 3.2 million participants, has revealed a important link between adherence to a “Planetary Health Diet” (DSP) and reduced risk of mortality from several major diseases, including cancer, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes.The findings,led by researchers at the University of Southeast (China),underscore the potential health benefits of a diet prioritizing plant-based foods and limiting red meat and sugar.
the Planetary Health Diet, first outlined in 2019 by the Eat-Lancet Commission – a group of 37 scientists from 16 countries – aims to establish worldwide scientific objectives for a food system that supports both human health and environmental sustainability. The diet emphasizes a doubling of consumption of fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and legumes, while reducing intake of red meat and sugar by more than 5 percent.
Researchers analyzed data from 42,947 people in the National Health and Nutrition Exam Survey of the United States (spanning 1999-2010) and 125,372 participants in the UK Biobank (initial evaluations began in 2006). The meta-analysis incorporated data from 37 previously published studies.
The study found that greater adherence to the DSP was associated with a lower risk of mortality for all causes, as well as specifically reduced risk of cancer and respiratory diseases among the British participants. The broader meta-analysis linked the diet to a lower risk of mortality from cardiovascular diseases, colorectal and lung cancer, coronary heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.”Greater adhesion to the DSP can offer important health benefits,” the authors concluded.They also highlighted the diet’s potential to combat global climate change and called for further research into its submission across diverse populations and its broader environmental benefits.
The Planetary Health Diet promotes environmentally sustainable consumption by increasing vegetable intake and reducing dairy and red meat. It also encourages conscious consumption habits that could improve food access for those with limited resources, while limiting refined grains, highly processed foods, and added sugars. While not strictly excluding animal products, the diet suggests integrating fish, meat, or chicken in small portions.The research, reported with facts from EFE and López-digo Digital, reinforces the growing body of evidence supporting the health and environmental advantages of plant-forward dietary patterns.
