Study finds vegetarians over 80 less likely to reach 100
Science Daily
February 26, 2026
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A recent study suggests that older adults who follow plant-based diets may be slightly less likely to reach 100 than those who consume meat, particularly among underweight individuals over the age of 80. However, this finding does not necessarily condemn vegetarianism but highlights the importance of adapting dietary choices to meet the unique nutritional needs of aging bodies. While plant-based diets are widely recognized for their health benefits in younger populations, the study emphasizes that very old age brings distinct challenges, such as maintaining muscle mass and preventing malnutrition.
The research, which followed over 5,000 adults in China aged 80 or older, found that non-meat eaters were less likely to become centenarians compared to meat consumers by 2018. This discrepancy appears to stem from the higher protein, calcium, and vitamin intake often associated with animal products, which are crucial for bone health and muscle maintenance in later life. However, the study also noted that individuals who included fish, eggs, or dairy in their diets were just as likely to reach 100 as meat eaters, suggesting that these foods may provide essential nutrients that plant-based diets alone might lack.
The findings underscore the shifting nutritional priorities of aging bodies. As people grow older, energy needs decrease while the demand for specific nutrients—such as protein, vitamin B12, calcium, and vitamin D—increases to combat muscle loss, bone density decline, and frailty. The study highlights that plant-based diets may not always meet these heightened nutrient requirements, particularly in underweight seniors who are already at higher risk of health issues.
This research challenges the notion that one diet is universally superior for all age groups. Instead, it suggests that dietary choices should adapt to reflect an individual’s stage of life and overall health status. For older adults, focusing on nutrient-rich foods that support physical strength and longevity may be more important than strictly adhering to long-term disease prevention strategies.
Ultimately, the study reinforces the idea that aging is a unique journey with
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Originally published on Science Daily on 2/26/2026