Tufts University study: children of long-lived people avoid sugar and saturated fat

A Tufts University study shows that descendants of people who lived over 100 years eat more healthily than most people. They avoid added sugars and saturated fats in particular, which helps them maximize inherited advantages.

Tufts University researchers have published a study showing that descendants of centenarians follow significantly healthier eating habits than the general population. The study highlights that genetic inheritance alone does not explain the better health of long-lived people's children – conscious dietary choices play a crucial role.

According to the study results, children of long-lived people avoid two food groups in particular: added sugars and saturated fats. Both components are associated with increased risk of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes. According to researchers, avoiding these substances helps maximize inherited advantages.

Tufts University researchers emphasize that the eating patterns of centenarians' descendants are not random – they are established habits that support the body's health over decades. Study participants whose parents had lived over 100 years ate more fiber-rich foods on average and fewer processed foods.

According to the researchers, the findings suggest that lifestyle choices and genes work together. Even people with favorable genes must make conscious choices to achieve a longer lifespan in good health. This finding is an important signal both for people who have long-lived ancestors and for the broader public.