Magnesium2026-05

Early Biomarkers, Risk Factors, and Functional Indicators of Healthy Longevity and Their Relationship with Diet.

Martini Daniela, Rondanelli Mariangela, Morelli Lorenzo, Landi Francesco — Nutrients

Summary

This review highlights how diet significantly influences healthy longevity, which means maintaining physical and mental functions as we age. Key nutrients like omega-3s, fiber, and vitamins, often found in plant-rich diets, are crucial for heart health, brain function, and strong muscles. Adopting a balanced diet with plenty of whole, plant-based foods can support overall health and potentially extend our healthy years.

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Abstract

Healthy longevity depends on not only lifespan but also the maintenance of physiological, metabolic, physical, and cognitive functions throughout aging. Identifying early determinants of health is crucial for preventing age-related decline. This narrative review aims to synthesize current evidence on how diet and specific nutrients relate to these early risk factors and indicators of healthy longevity. A review was performed to identify the links between dietary factors, energy balance, and gut microbiota composition and normal body weight; blood cholesterol, pressure, and glucose; healthy sleep; an active lifestyle; and normal physical function and cognitive performance. Particular attention was given to Mediterranean and other plant-based dietary models as sources of key nutrients. Evidence from observational studies, randomized controlled trials, and meta-analyses was considered. Across all markers, dietary quality and nutrient adequacy emerged as consistent determinants of health outcomes. Key nutrients were associated with favorable cardiometabolic, cognitive, and musculoskeletal functions, such as omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, vitamins D and B, minerals like magnesium and potassium, and polyphenols. Common nutrition gaps included insufficient intake of fiber, unsaturated fats, and micronutrients, which was often linked to a shift toward less plant-based diets. Gut microbiota diversity may mediate several of these associations, influencing metabolism, inflammation, sleep quality, and cognitive performance, although inter-individual variability and causal pathways remain incompletely understood. An integrated dietary approach emphasizing the consumption of whole and plant-rich foods, with moderate amounts of animal foods, supports multiple early markers, risk factors, and indicators of healthy longevity. The modulation of the gut microbiota through plant-based diets and fermented foods represents a promising strategy for maintaining health across aging trajectories.

View on PubMed →DOI: 10.3390/nu18111664