A study by Chinese scientists has shown that following a vegetarian diet improves the quality and duration of sleep in older adults.
The researchers reached this conclusion after analyzing data from more than 9,000 participants in a long-term national study of health and longevity. The Sleep Quality Index (PHDI) score was assigned to study participants based on the components of their diet, and both sleep quality and duration were assessed from the participants' perspective after interviews with them.
The analysis showed that older adults who followed a plant-based diet enjoyed better sleep quality and longer periods of deep sleep compared to others. The results also indicated that every one-point increase in the nutrition quality index was associated with a 4-5% higher likelihood of enjoying good sleep, and this effect was even more pronounced among those who combined a plant-based diet with regular physical activity.
The researchers stressed that the study was observational and did not prove a direct causal relationship, but its results indicate that sustainable dietary patterns based on plant-based foods not only benefit heart health and metabolism, but also contribute to improving sleep quality.
Health experts point out that plant-based foods such as legumes, vegetables, and fruits are a rich source of vitamins, minerals, and elements necessary to boost immunity, improve digestive function, and promote general health. Regularly following plant-based diets is also an effective way to prevent obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases.
