The Role of a Healthy Lifestyle and the Interaction of Nutrition and Physical Activity in Slowing Aging and Enhancing Quality of Life: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Aging is a multidimensional and gradual process shaped by complex interactions among biological, behavioral, and environmental factors. Its consequences affect not only lifespan but also quality of life and functional independence. In recent decades, accumulating evidence has demonstrated that a healthy lifestyle particularly dietary patterns and physical activity plays a decisive role in slowing aging processes and promoting healthy longevity. The aim of this study was to provide a systematic review of molecular-to-clinical evidence on the role of the interaction between nutrition and physical activity as key components of a healthy lifestyle in modulating biological aging pathways and improving quality of life. In this systematic review, studies published in major scientific databases including experimental research, animal studies, clinical trials, and epidemiological investigations were identified, reviewed, and synthesized. The primary focus was on molecular mechanisms associated with aging, including regulation of energy metabolism, mitochondrial function, oxidative stress, chronic low-grade inflammation, insulin-related signaling pathways, and epigenetic modifications. In addition, clinical evidence regarding the effects of different dietary patterns (such as caloric restriction, plant-based diets, and Mediterranean dietary patterns) and various forms of physical activity (aerobic, resistance, and combined training) on physical, cognitive, and psychological outcomes in middle-aged and older populations was examined. The findings indicate that healthy nutrition and physical activity act not only as independent determinants of healthy aging but also exert synergistic effects that modulate key cellular aging processes, delay the onset of age-related diseases, and enhance quality of life across physical, psychological, and social domains. This review emphasizes that healthy lifestyle–based approaches, as non-pharmacological interventions, have substantial potential to promote healthy aging and should be considered integral components of public health and clinical strategies in aging societies.