CRN-International report shows nutrition’s role in extending healthspan

WASHINGTON — A new scientific report from the Council for Responsible Nutrition-International (CRN-I) highlights the growing role nutrition can play in extending healthspan and supporting healthy aging, as policymakers and healthcare leaders increasingly focus on “Food Is Medicine” strategies.

The report, published in the European Journal of Nutrition, summarizes findings from CRN-International’s symposium, Food Is Medicine: The Role of Nutrition in Extending Healthspan, held in Dresden, Germany. The event brought together researchers and nutrition experts to examine how dietary strategies and bioactive nutrients can help reduce chronic disease risk and support resilience as people age.

The publication comes as the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services signals support for expanding nutrition education in medical school curricula. Industry groups, including the Council for Responsible Nutrition, have long advocated for stronger nutrition training among healthcare professionals to help clinicians better guide patients on diet and supplement use.

“Nutrition plays a fundamental role in helping people stay healthier for longer, and the science continues to show how diet, lifestyle and targeted nutrition interventions can support resilience and healthy aging,” said Luke Huber, vice president of scientific and global affairs at CRN and lead author of the report.

Among the key findings highlighted in the symposium report:

• Resilience and healthy aging: Dietary patterns and targeted nutrition interventions may help the body respond to physiological stress and maintain function over time.
• Protein and muscle health: Adequate protein intake, particularly for older adults, supports muscle mass, metabolic health and functional independence.
• Phytochemicals and metabolic health: Bioactive compounds found in foods such as fruits, vegetables, tea and coffee may help reduce the risk of conditions including type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
• Vitamin D and immune health: Clinical trial findings suggest vitamin D supplementation may influence inflammation and other health outcomes in aging populations.

The report also notes that dietary supplements may complement broader Food Is Medicine initiatives, which often focus on improving access to whole foods. In the United States, roughly 75% of adults report using dietary supplements, most commonly to support overall health and wellness.

CRN-International said continued research and evidence-based approaches will be critical as Food Is Medicine programs expand, including produce prescription programs and medically tailored meal initiatives aimed at preventing chronic disease and improving long-term health outcomes.