Individuals who consume a Mediterranean-style diet may experience healthy aging as they grow old, according to a new study. The diet is based on consuming large amounts of fruits and vegetables and fish, which are rich in vitamins and omega-3s, respectively.

For the study, a team Swedish researchers tracked the health of a group of adults from the Gothenburg region for up to 40 years. The results showed that those who ate more fruits, vegetables, fish and dairy experienced healthier aging than those whose diets mainly consisted of animal products.

"The conclusion we can draw from these studies is that there is no doubt that a Mediterranean diet is linked to better health, not only for the elderly but also for youngsters," said Gianluca Tognon, the Sahlgrenska Academy researcher who led the study.

The team added that the health benefits of the Mediterranean diet have been studied extensively since the 1950s, and just about every investigation has turned up similar results: Consuming more fruits, vegetables and fish supports healthy aging. Working more of these foods into an everyday diet may provide many health benefits.