#ChronicDiseasePrevention

An 85-year-old runner challenging his limits at the 28th London Marathon is capturing international attention and spotlighting new research that shatters one of the most persistent myths in health: that old age is an obstacle to exercise. While some see retirement as an end to physical activity, the remarkable story of this octogenarian marathoner signals a broader move in both science and society towards active aging — and offers invaluable lessons for Thailand’s fast-growing elderly population.

A wave of recent research highlights the Mediterranean diet’s ability to support healthy blood sugar and reduce type 2 diabetes risk. Rooted in the cuisines of Greece, Italy, and the broader region, this eating pattern gains credibility from nutrition science and practical, easy-to-make meals. For Thais facing rising diabetes and metabolic syndrome, these findings offer actionable guidance that fits local tastes.

Diabetes is a growing concern in Thailand. Data from international health organizations show more than five million adults living with the condition, with metabolic syndrome on the rise. Shifting dietary patterns toward refined carbohydrates, saturated fats, and ultra-processed foods—while traditional Thai dishes often emphasize plant-based staples—contribute to this trend. A sustainable, enjoyable, and evidence-based approach to eating is increasingly urgent for public health.

Health experts from Vail Health have framed nutrition as a prescription, essential for preventing chronic illnesses. In a panel on April 3, they discussed how a balanced diet helps ward off cardiovascular disease, hypertension, diabetes, and dementia.

A family medicine physician from Colorado Mountain Medical emphasized nutrition’s preventive power. “If society valued nutrition as highly as medication, we would see fewer chronic diseases,” she said. Nutrition should be treated as a proactive shield, not just a treatment after illness.

Doctors and health experts from Vail Health recently advocated for considering nutrition as one would a prescription medication, underscoring its vital role in preventing chronic diseases. During a panel held on April 3, experts shared insights into how a balanced diet can fend off conditions such as cardiovascular disease, hypertension, diabetes, and dementia.

Dr. Susie Vickerman, a family medicine physician at Colorado Mountain Medical, highlighted the often-overlooked preventive power of nutrition. “If society as a whole placed the importance on nutrition the same way they do on medication, we would have a whole lot less chronic disease,” she explained. The discussion emphasized nutrition not just as part of treatment, but as a preventative measure against disease development.

A major study tracked over 30 years and more than 100,000 American adults to understand how long-term eating patterns influence healthy aging. The research followed participants until age 70, examining who remained free from chronic disease and who maintained cognitive and physical function.

Findings indicate that diets such as the Alternative Healthy Eating Index (AHEI), the Mediterranean Diet (aMED), and the DASH plan significantly improve the odds of aging healthily. These patterns emphasize fruits, vegetables, nuts, whole grains, and healthy fats while reducing trans fats, salt, and processed meats. Notably, those with the highest AHEI adherence showed about 86% greater odds of aging healthily by 70 compared with those with the lowest adherence.

A large, long-term study suggests that what people eat may influence how healthily they age. Researchers tracked more than 100,000 participants for three decades and found that only about 9% reached old age free of major diseases or impairments. The common thread among this small group was a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats.

For Thailand, where lifestyle-related diseases are rising, these findings are especially relevant. The study reinforces the value of plant-forward eating patterns and nutrient-dense foods, which have been linked to lower risks of heart disease and diabetes—conditions that are increasingly seen in Thai communities during transitions in diet and lifestyle.