To think food choices aren't everything regarding longevity?

[ThePigandPear]

I see a lot of food threads here and on other websites where people clash over what constitutes healthy foods, upf, etc.
I have a good diet and would like to remain fit, but I get the feeling that a lot of people choose to obsess over food because it is something they think they can control in a very uncertain world.

One person will suggest obesity has risen in tow with ultra processed foods.
Another will say "no! it's seed oils, low fat, sugar and so on!".
But few people suggest increasing car use, or having become far more sedentary, since these are lifestyle factors that many don't feel they have control over.
It is simpler to blame food.

So a healthy diet is very important, but what about sleep quality, stress, social connection, mental health and activity? A lot of those are very complicated and can't be as easily fixed.
I recall thinking this after reading about the famous Blue Zones, that the elder population were out playing tennis and gardening with company most days. However, the Blue Zones centenarians have been more recently debunked...

Sadly I have known a few people with very healthy lifestyle's and diets become ill or disabled, and a few who have died young. And there are always examples of that chain smoking great uncle who lived to 104 on beer, bacon and lard.

Good, healthy food is one thing we can make an impact with, but it is only a small part of the story, for me. The healthiest older people I have known have been very active (a LOT of walking), from hiking to just getting around on foot. They have also kept a social life outside of their home, and oddly enough, been single!
This is only from my own experience of course.
My mum was the very image of yoga, healthy eating, mediation, yet still suffered some debilitating health issues that could not be controlled by lifestyle, and became somewhat reclusive and sedentary in her old age as she had lost her community links. Family members who have got out there and kept doing stuff did seem to live much longer lives, regardless some bad habits (luck permitting).

I just don't think some good bread with peanut butter for brekkie is going to make a massive difference, or the occasional jar of supermarket sauce, unless I am piping adulterated shit down my throat 24-7.

Two people in my life whose health I find worth a mention on this thread 1 a 74 year old male who smokes 60 yes 60! A day. Still works an active job. Eats once a day, usually a takeaway or two ready meals as one meal.

Two my great aunt. Died at 99. She broke her hip in her 96th year but before that she was out on day trips and got a taxi to the local club and back 'for a few brandies!' Twice a week. She ate traditional meat and two veg, jam and toast for breakfast if in a rush but often a full English. Put her longevity down to 'being positive and brandy!🤣

What matters is science, especially longitudinal studies.

You've just said what you've personally noticed, which means zip in the scheme of things.

It’s important to be slim. This is why there are always stories about 40 a day smokers, grandparents who are everything in lard and so on. Of course, slim people do get ill, but generally slim people are the ones doing better in old age.
Movement is very important. A daily walk is extremely beneficial.
And yes, social connection and mental stimulation. Spend time with people. Keep using your brain.
These are the things to aim for.

This is anecdotal but all the 90 plus yr olds I know were a little bit overweight.