Association between essential trace elements, dietary patterns, and biological aging
Selenium and protein-rich diets slow biological aging markers in older adults, offering modifiable targets for healthier aging.
In 2,627 older adults (≥65 years), a mixed essential trace element exposure — particularly selenium — was associated with significantly lower biological age indicators using validated Klemera-Doubal method and homeostatic dysregulation metrics, independent of dietary patterns. High-protein and plant-based diets showed independently protective associations with biological aging, with selenium mediating 17.2% of the high-protein dietary pattern effect on biological age.
What the study was
- Study design
- Cross-sectional observational study
- Population
- 2,627 older adults aged ≥65 years (Zhejiang University cohort)
- Sample size
- 2627
- Category
- Prevention
- Maturity
- Exploratory
- Journal
- European Journal of Nutrition
Why it surfaced
Large observational cohort (n=2,627 older adults) using validated biological aging biomarkers with BKMR mixture modeling; selenium as dominant modifiable trace element contributor is a novel, testable finding for dietary recommendations
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