Mediterranean diet may activate tiny proteins that protect the heart and brain

The Mediterranean diet may influence aging through tiny proteins produced inside the cell’s mitochondria.

Older adults who followed the diet most closely had higher levels of humanin and SHMOOSE, which have been linked to heart and brain protection.

Olive oil, fish, legumes, and fewer refined carbohydrates appeared especially important.

The findings could eventually help scientists develop more personalized nutrition plans for healthy aging. ...