As reported in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, a study, of 22,000 middle-aged to elderly Italian subjects, explored the influence of consuming ultra-processed foods [UPFs] on the aging process.

Using a food frequency questionnaire, measuring the ratio of UPFs to total food consumed over the course of a year, scientists concluded eating greater amounts of processed foods, especially processed red meats [pancetta, salami, mortadella, and other deli meats] is associated with accelerated biological aging.

The data from the study prompted a theory that accelerated biological aging may be linked to the harmful chemicals in UPFs caused by high-temperature cooking, plastic packaging, and toxic compounds developed during the processing of meat.

Because there is no fiber in animal protein, these particular foods lack the fertilizer to encourage the growth of beneficial bacteria in our colons [guts]. For good reason, countless scientific studies encourage eating a Plant Based Diet. Plant foods [including fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains] provide the microbial populations [microbiome] living within us the ingredients needed to create diverse, robust colonies of beneficial/anti-inflammatory bacteria. Healthy gut bacteria lead to healthier bodies, more likely to live longer.

Dateline: Town of Colonie, Albany County, Capital Region of New York State