Scientists may have uncovered another reason the Mediterranean diet is associated with healthier aging. And four familiar dietary choices appear connected to the discovery.

In a University of Southern California study , older adults who followed the Mediterranean diet more closely had higher levels of two tiny proteins linked to cellular protection. Olive oil, fish, legumes, and eating less refined bread showed particularly interesting associations.

Related: Scientists Tested 10 Longevity Diets and One Finding Stood Out

Scientists Found Two Proteins Linked to Healthy Aging

Researchers examined blood samples from 49 older adults, averaging approximately 78 years old.…