In an era of the beefy burger and bacon obsession, it may come as a surprise that going green could have a crucial boosting effect on your lifespan. A recent study published in JAMA Internal Medicine now backs up what your grandma always told you, "eat your veggies."

During a thrilling 20-year drama of health monitoring involving 400,000 adults (averaging 61 years of age at the start), researchers discovered a compelling difference in mortality rates based on fat sources. Those who had their diets deeply rooted in plant fats were 9% less likely to meet their maker during the study compared to the meat-loving lot.

Moreover, the plant-nibbling subjects showed a 16% lower probability of succumbing to the grim reaper due to heart disease-related issues. Contrastingly, those whetting their whistle with saturated sources of animal fats were 16% more likely to croak, with heart disease factoring in as well.

Now, before our die-hard carnivores start preparing for the end times and Keto fans renounce their way of life, let's take a closer examination of these findings.

The powers of plant-based fats be seemingly endless. But why? Let's let Dr. Vadiveloo, nutrition-guru from the University of Rhode Island enlighten us. She states two primary reasons. Firstly, a diet heavy in plant-based fats is indicative of a larger percentage of plant-based food in the overall nutrition plan, which is often accompanied by whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.

Secondly, plant fats deliver the gift of unsaturated fats. Here lies the treasure. The more unsaturated than saturated fats in your ratio, the better your lipid metabolism and cholesterol regulation.

It turns out two types of plant-based fats - those found lounging on your grains and chilling in your vegetable oils - flashed the most promising signs of lengthening your ticket to the living world. The "grain gang" showcased an 8% higher likelihood of outliving their counterparts while the "oil squad" went one better, with a 12% reduced risk of death.

In stark contrast, an unhealthy connection was drawn between specific animal fats and high mortality rates. Think dairy fat. Think egg fat. While your omelets might be to die for, you might not mean it literally. However, eating the egg whites and egg substitutes are a culinary compromise that offer a tasty and healthier alternative.

So, to all my health-lovers, if you value your time among the living, reduce your animal fats intake, especially the red meat kind, and embrace the plant diet. Introduce whole foods like fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds, whole grains, beans, and healthy plant oils in your diet and enjoy your newly upgraded lifespan. Change up your meat to lean, minimally processed alternatives, opt for low-fat dairy products and limit the eggs you consume.

Because let's face it, being green is never out of season.