Healthy eating in 40s linked to better well-being in 70s: Harvard study
Washington: A recent Harvard study has found that dietary choices made in the 40s can have a significant impact on health and quality of life in the 70s. The research, published in Nature Medicine, emphasises the role of a balanced and nutritious diet in preventing chronic diseases and promoting overall well-being in later years.
The study defines healthy ageing as reaching 70 without major chronic illnesses such as cancer, heart disease, diabetes, or cognitive decline while maintaining physical independence and a good quality of life.
Researchers monitored the eating habits of 105,015 individuals over three decades, evaluating their diets based on eight recognised healthy eating guidelines. The Alternative Healthy Eating Index (AHEI), developed by Harvard, was identified as the most effective diet for promoting healthy ageing. This diet emphasises the consumption of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, legumes, and healthy fats found in olive oil and fatty fish while discouraging red and processed meats, sugary beverages, refined grains, and high sodium intake.
Experts suggest that while no single diet suits everyone, incorporating nutrient-rich foods, opting for whole grains, and prioritising healthy fats over trans and saturated fats can contribute to better health as individuals age.
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CM Siddaramaiah calls for scientific measures to stop wild animals straying into human habitats
Mysuru (PTI): Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Monday directed officials to take scientific and immediate measures to curb the problem of wild animals straying into human habitats.
The directive came after a tiger killed four people and livestock in Mysuru district over the past month.
The chief minister said the issue must be handled with urgency and guided by evidence-based solutions.
At a meeting with senior forest department officials, Siddaramaiah asked, "Why are tigers and elephants coming out of the forest? Give a scientific reason."
He emphasised, "There is an urgent need to find an effective solution through a scientific approach," and suggested concrete remedial measures.
A statement issued by the CMO said Siddaramaiah instructed the department to fill water pits inside forests, remove lantana, and grow grass to ensure adequate food and water sources within forest areas.
He also directed continuous monitoring of elephant and tiger movements and said a separate meeting would be convened to prevent conflicts between wild animals and humans.
Officers must conduct a comprehensive study on causes and solutions, he added.
The statement said officials informed Siddaramaiah that a helpline had already been opened and that work was underway to set up a command centre to strengthen response mechanisms.
The CM also instructed officers to act conscientiously in matters related to tribal hamlets and forest dwellers.
He enquired whether drinking water and electricity were being adequately provided to tribal settlements and urged officials to ensure their welfare.
When MLA Anil Chikkamadu highlighted that man-animal conflicts had increased in HD Kote due to a lack of coordination between forest officers, Siddaramaiah warned that strict action would be taken if human lives were lost.
