Modulating biological aging with food-derived signals: a systems and precision nutrition perspective
Lifespan extension has not prevented age-related decline. We propose that diet acts as a molecular modulator of aging, influencing inflammation, the microbiome, and systemic resilience. Biological age markers and AI-powered multi-omics reveal actionable dietary targets, including food-derived signals and Nutrition Dark Matter. We highlight precision nutrition and the EIT Food Healthy Aging Think & Do Tank as pathways to align science, policy, and practice for healthy aging.
Why is it important?
While average lifespans have increased in many regions, healthspan, the years lived in good health, has not kept pace. Chronic diseases like cardiovascular disease, diabetes and neurodegeneration remain leading causes of disability as populations age. This article shines a spotlight on nutrition as a molecular driver of aging biology, not just a lifestyle factor, and explores how food-derived signals and bioactive compounds interact with systems that influence resilience, inflammation and cellular function.
Who created it?
The article was authored by an international group of scientists with expertise in nutrition, aging biology, microbiome science and food systems, including Carsten Carlberg, Andreas Blüthner, Irini Schoeman-Giziakis, Annemarie Oosting and Luca Cocolin, among others. It highlights work from institutions across Europe and underscores the contributions of the EIT Food Healthy Ageing Think & Do Tank as a platform for bridging scientific insights with practical, cross-sector solutions for healthy aging.