In a groundbreaking study conducted by scientists from Harvard University, it has been revealed that adhering to an eco-friendly diet not only benefits the planet but also significantly lowers the risk of premature death. The research, which spanned over three decades and included more than 200,000 healthy US adults, highlights the long-term health benefits of consuming a diet focused on sustainable food choices.

The study assessed the participants' adherence to a planetary health diet, which emphasized the consumption of protein from sources such as nuts, beans, and lentils, while limiting the intake of eggs, fish, meat, and sugar to less than 50g per day. The participants' diets were scored based on their consumption of 15 different food groups, including vegetables, whole grains, dairy products, and poultry.

Over a follow-up period of 34 years, the researchers documented 54,536 deaths among the study group, including over 14,600 caused by cancer and more than 13,700 attributed to cardiovascular diseases. They found that those who closely adhered to the eco-friendly diet had nearly a third lower risk of premature death compared to those in the bottom 10 percent. Additionally, they had a 14 percent lower risk of death associated with cardiovascular diseases, a 10 percent lower chance of cancer mortality, and a 47 percent lower chance of dying from respiratory diseases.

The findings of the study, published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, also shed light on the positive environmental impact of following such a diet. Adherence to the eco-friendly diet was associated with a 29 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared to an average diet. Moreover, the food choices made by those who strictly followed the diet led to a 21 percent decrease in fertilizer use.

This study comes at a time when data on Brits' food purchasing habits indicates a shift towards consuming less meat, potatoes, and bread, with a significant increase in the consumption of rice and pasta. The rising interest in primarily plant-based diets, such as veganism, can be attributed to ethical, environmental, and health concerns.

While the NHS advises that red meat can be a valuable source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, it also warns about the potential risks of excessive consumption, including an increased likelihood of bowel cancer. The NHS recommends basing meals on starchy carbohydrates, including wholegrain options, and incorporating at least five portions of fruits and vegetables daily.

Overall, this study serves as a compelling reminder that adopting an eco-friendly diet not only benefits the planet by reducing greenhouse gas emissions but also promotes long-term health and lowers the risk of premature death. By making conscious choices about their diets, individuals can play a crucial role in both personal well-being and sustainability.