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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Shreveport(US) (AP): A gunman in Louisiana killed eight children in shootings at two different homes early Sunday in the nation's deadliest mass shooting in more than two years, police in Shreveport said.

The victims ranged in age from one to about 14 years old, said Shreveport police spokesperson Chris Bordelon. A total of 10 were shot and some of the children were related to the suspect, Bordelon said.

The gunman later died after a chase with officers who fired at the suspect, Bordelon said. The suspect stole a car while leaving the scene of the shootings and was followed by police, according to Bordelon.

Police did not release the name of the suspect but did say he was an adult male. The shootings were the result of a “domestic disturbance,” Bordelon said.

Officials said they were still gathering details at the crime scenes south of downtown Shreveport — the two homes and a third location.

“This is an extensive scene unlike anything most of us have ever seen,” he said.

It was the deadliest mass shooting in the US since eight people were killed in a Chicago suburb in January 2024, according to a database maintained by The Associated Press and USA Today in partnership with Northeastern University.

At a news conference outside the residence where one of the shootings occurred, officials appeared stunned, requesting patience and prayers from the community as they sorted through multiple crime scenes.

“I just don't know what to say, my heart is just taken aback,” Shreveport Police Chief Wayne Smith said. “I cannot begin to imagine how such an event could occur.”

“This is a tragic situation — maybe the worst tragic situation we've ever had,” said Tom Arceneaux, mayor of the city in northwestern Louisiana with about 180,000 residents. “It's a terrible morning.”

Louisiana State Police say their detectives have been asked by Shreveport police to investigate. In a statement, state police say no officers were harmed in the shooting that involved an officer after a police pursuit into Bossier City on Sunday morning.

State police are asking anyone with pictures, video or information to share it with state police detectives.

Louisiana Gov Jeff Landry said in a statement that he and his wife were heartbroken. “We're deeply grateful to the law enforcement officers and first responders working tirelessly on the scene,” he added.