New scientific evidence confirms a direct link between dietary habits and longevity. A study by scientists at Aarhus University (Denmark), published with a link in Earth, showed that following Scandinavian dietary guidelines is associated with a significantly lower risk of early death.
Associate Professor Christina Dam and PhD student Anna Bak Merh analyzed the eating habits of more than 76,000 Swedes who had been recording their diet and lifestyle since 1997. Middle-aged participants who followed the Scandinavian advice — minimizing red meat and sugar intake and regularly consuming whole grains, legumes, fish, and low-fat dairy products — had a 23% lower overall mortality rate. The effect persisted after accounting for income, education, and physical activity.
Separately, the scientists note that the greatest risk reduction was observed for cardiovascular disease mortality. This highlights the importance of nutrition in preventing heart disease, regardless of socioeconomic status.
The authors emphasize that the idea of the Scandinavian recommendations is not strict prohibitions, but balance. The diet should be beneficial for human health and at the same time less harmful to the environment: less animal husbandry, more plant products, less food waste.
This is particularly important given the impact of the food industry on the climate: scientists estimate that food production and consumption are responsible for around 30% of global greenhouse gas emissions. The Scandinavian guidelines take this into account and encourage people to make choices in favor of more environmentally friendly products.
