(NaturalHealth365) We’ve all heard it’s important to take in enough vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients.  A healthy, balanced diet is essential to looking and feeling your best.

But how are longevity and diet related?  Keep reading to find out how your nutrient intake can affect mortality risk.  In fact, according to one study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, the answer is quite interesting – with a catch.

Can nutrient intake promote a longer life?

If you don’t consume enough nutrients, it could lead to health problems in the long run.  But what about nutrition for longevity?  This is what the Annals study sought to determine.  Researchers tried to find out if there’s a link between adequate nutrient intake and reduced mortality.  They followed 27,000 adults over the age of 20 from the United States over several years.

Researchers questioned participants about their nutrient intake from both food and supplements.  Nutrient intake was considered “adequate” when intake was at or above the estimated average requirements.  They then looked for correlations between nutrient intake and mortality.

The study concluded that adequate vitamin K and magnesium intake led to a lower risk of death than inadequate intake.  Additionally, sufficient vitamin A, vitamin K, zinc, and copper intake appeared to lower heart disease risk.

Supplements vs. nutrients from food … which one is better?

The study suggests nutrient intake may be linked to a lower risk of mortality.  However, there was a caveat to these results.  The reduced mortality risk was only seen with nutrients that came from food, not dietary supplements. 

Those who took nutrient supplements didn’t appear to have a decreased risk of mortality or heart disease.  So it would seem that the best source of nutrients is the food you eat.  Moreover, taking too much calcium in supplements was associated with higher cancer risk.  So taking in more nutrients than necessary could actually be harmful to your health.

How to get the most nutrients in your diet?

Of course, don’t misunderstand the message here; dietary supplements can be vital for those who can’t get enough intake through food alone.  For example, people with certain health conditions or food allergies.

Folic acid is an essential supplement for pregnant women as it helps prevent fetal birth defects.  Nutrient supplements have their place when needed.  Even if there’s no evidence that nutrient supplements increase longevity, nutrient supplements can significantly improve the quality of your life and may be necessary.

Supplementing with essential nutrients like CoQ10, magnesium, and vitamin C is linked to better heart health.  You can also up your nutrition intake through food by consuming lots of whole, organic meals.  Some foods, like microgreens, are particularly rich in nutrients like zinc, vitamin B6, and magnesium.

To strive for the best possible health, choose a diet packed with organic (chemical-free) vegetables, fruits, and non-toxic fats or protein.  Whenever possible, minimize (or avoid) processed foods, grow your food or look for high-quality, locally sourced organic food.

Undoubtedly, eating a balanced (clean) diet will help you live a long and healthy life.  So try making some changes today … what have you got to lose?

Sources for this article include:

LiveScience.com
ACPJournals.org