Eating habits throughout life and their impacts on healthy aging: A literature review

This article sought to analyze the influence of eating habits developed throughout life on healthy aging and the quality of life of the older population, given the high prevalence of chronic noncommunicable diseases associated with inadequate dietary patterns. To this end, an integrative literature review with a qualitative and exploratory approach was conducted in the SciELO, PubMed, and Google Scholar databases, including articles published between 2013 and 2025 in Portuguese and English. The results showed that balanced dietary patterns rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and high-quality proteins are associated with a reduced risk of chronic diseases and the preservation of functional capacity, whereas the consumption of ultra-processed foods, smoking, and alcohol use contribute to unhealthy aging and loss of autonomy. It was also found that physiological factors, such as sensory and chewing changes, and socioeconomic factors, such as income, education, and social isolation, directly affect dietary quality in old age. It is concluded that promoting healthy eating habits throughout life, combined with food and nutrition education strategies, constitutes an important tool for preventing diseases, maintaining functioning, and promoting aging with greater autonomy and well-being.