Macro partitioning
In women, higher intake of total protein, animal protein, polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), and n-3 fatty acids is associated with decreased all-cause mortality, whereas higher carbohydrate intake is associated with increased all-cause mortality.
If you are a woman over 40, prioritizing adequate protein (especially animal sources like fish or lean meat), healthy fats (PUFA and n-3), and moderating carbohydrate intake may support longevity. If you are a man, ensuring sufficient fat intake (including saturated and monounsaturated fats) might be beneficial. These findings suggest that sex-specific dietary patterns, rather than one-size-fits-all macronutrient ratios, may be optimal for healthspan.
Therefore, the intakes of total protein (p = 0.004), animal protein (p = 0.010), PUFA (p = 0.036), and n-3 fatty acids (p = 0.024) decreased all-cause mortality in women. In contrast, carbohydrate intake increased all-cause mortality in women (p = 0.046).
Why this rating
Longitudinal cohort study with large sample size (n=3743) and long follow-up, but relies on self-reported dietary data and observational design.
Source
Sex Differences in the Relationship Between Nutrient Intake and Mortality Results of the Shika Cohort Study
K Hayashi et al. · Nutrients · 2025
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