Want to live longer? A doctor reveals 10 surprising foods - including chocolate and wine!
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Want to live longer? Who doesn't! While genetics play a role, more and more research shows lifestyle choices have a major impact on longevity.
'Many foods contain nutrients and compounds that help protect cells from damage and reduce inflammation,' explains Dr. Michael Patel, a physician focused on lifestyle medicine.
He went on, 'making these foods a regular part of your diet is key for extending your health span.'
So which food items may help you celebrate more birthdays? Dr. Patel shares his top 10:
1. Berries
These bite-sized fruits are nutrition powerhouses, packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. 'Studies link higher intakes of berries with slower rates of cognitive decline,' notes Amy Jamieson, a registered dietitian. 'Their antioxidants help protect cells all over the body from instability that can lead to disease.'
Aim for 1-2 servings per day. Frozen varieties retain nutrients well. Toss a handful of cereal, blend into smoothies, or mix into yoghurt.
2. Leafy greens
From spinach to kale, leafy greens are brimming with vitamins A, C, K, and folate. These nutrients keep cells healthy and help prevent DNA damage.
'Leafy greens support brain and heart health, and their fibre aids digestion,' says Jamieson. For a longevity boost, build meals around these superstar veggies. Mix greens into omelettes, soups, and pasta dishes where you can.
3. Nuts
Almonds, walnuts, pecans - all nuts pack a nutritional punch. 'They're loaded with healthy fats, fibre, vitamins, and minerals,' explains Dr. Patel. Their winning combo of protein and fibre also helps you feel fuller for longer.
Studies link regular nut consumption to lower 'bad' LDL cholesterol and reduced heart disease risks. But watch your portions, as nuts are calorie-dense. Stick to about 1/4 cup a day.
4. Olive oil
A staple in Mediterranean diets, olive oil contains beneficial monounsaturated fats and antioxidants like vitamin E. Research correlates olive oil intake with lower risks of heart disease, stroke, and depression.
For longevity benefits, use extra virgin olive oil for cooking, dressings, and marinades. Mix in with roasted veggies or whole grain pasta. Studies show antioxidant benefits ramp up when paired with tomatoes!
5. Whole grains
From quinoa to brown rice to oats, whole grains provide a wealth of nutrients and fibre. Fibre stabilises blood sugar and lowers 'bad' LDL cholesterol, decreasing risks for diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
Aim for 3-4 servings of whole grains daily. Enjoy a bowl of porridge for breakfast, quinoa salad for lunch, and brown rice with dinner. Look for '100% whole grain' on the label.
6. Beans and legumes
Kidney beans, chickpeas, lentils - beans rock! 'They supply sustained energy, thanks to their fibre, protein and complex carbs,' says Jamieson. Multiple studies link legume consumption with lower risks of heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure.
Their sturdy fibre also promotes good gut health. Add beans or lentils into salads, soups, and rice dishes a few times per week.
7. Yoghurt
Yoghurt contains beneficial probiotics, the 'good bacteria' that promote healthy digestion and immune function. Studies correlate yoghurt intake with enhanced gut health and better weight maintenance.
Stick to plain, unsweetened varieties and aim for 1-2 servings daily. Yoghurt parfaits make an ideal breakfast, or use yoghurt as the base for smoothies.
8. Turmeric
This vivid yellow spice contains the compound curcumin, which has strong anti-inflammatory properties. Studies show curcumin may help lower risks of arthritis, heart disease, and even certain cancers like colorectal.
'For best absorption, always pair turmeric with black pepper,' advises Dr. Patel. Sprinkle both spices into soups, curries, roasted veggies, and grain dishes. Or blend into golden milk - a soothing beverage.
9. Dark chocolate
Here's a tasty longevity booster! Dark chocolate with 70% or more cocoa contains flavanols, which promote circulation and heart health. Researchers found those who regularly ate chocolate showed reduced risks of cardiovascular-related death.
Stick to a small 28-56 grams per serving to keep added sugar and calories in check. Melt a few chunks into porridge or add to your homemade baked goods for guilt-free treats!
10. Red wine
Raise a glass to red wine! When consumed moderately, red wine offers longevity benefits thanks to an antioxidant called resveratrol, plus additional polyphenols. These compounds help protect cells from damage and reduce inflammation.
Moderate intake means up to 1 glass of red wine daily for women and 1-2 for men. Beyond that may negate benefits. If avoiding alcohol, grape juice and red grapes also supply beneficial polyphenols.
Adding more of these 10 foods into your meals and snacks is a tasty way to promote longevity. Developing healthy lifelong habits also involves staying active, managing stress, and enjoying time with loved ones.
So fill your plate with fruit, veggies, nuts and whole grains. Toast to long life with a splash of red wine. And remember, small bites of dark chocolate count too! Adopting a balanced diet rich in unprocessed superfoods nourishes your cells from head to toe - helping you stay vibrant and healthy for years to come. Are you right on the path or planning to become a healthier version of yourself? Share your thoughts with us below, members!
And please keep in mind, you should always speak to your medical practitioner before altering your diet. They are the experts and know what is best for you!
'Many foods contain nutrients and compounds that help protect cells from damage and reduce inflammation,' explains Dr. Michael Patel, a physician focused on lifestyle medicine.
He went on, 'making these foods a regular part of your diet is key for extending your health span.'
So which food items may help you celebrate more birthdays? Dr. Patel shares his top 10:
1. Berries
These bite-sized fruits are nutrition powerhouses, packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. 'Studies link higher intakes of berries with slower rates of cognitive decline,' notes Amy Jamieson, a registered dietitian. 'Their antioxidants help protect cells all over the body from instability that can lead to disease.'
Aim for 1-2 servings per day. Frozen varieties retain nutrients well. Toss a handful of cereal, blend into smoothies, or mix into yoghurt.
2. Leafy greens
From spinach to kale, leafy greens are brimming with vitamins A, C, K, and folate. These nutrients keep cells healthy and help prevent DNA damage.
'Leafy greens support brain and heart health, and their fibre aids digestion,' says Jamieson. For a longevity boost, build meals around these superstar veggies. Mix greens into omelettes, soups, and pasta dishes where you can.
3. Nuts
Almonds, walnuts, pecans - all nuts pack a nutritional punch. 'They're loaded with healthy fats, fibre, vitamins, and minerals,' explains Dr. Patel. Their winning combo of protein and fibre also helps you feel fuller for longer.
Studies link regular nut consumption to lower 'bad' LDL cholesterol and reduced heart disease risks. But watch your portions, as nuts are calorie-dense. Stick to about 1/4 cup a day.
4. Olive oil
A staple in Mediterranean diets, olive oil contains beneficial monounsaturated fats and antioxidants like vitamin E. Research correlates olive oil intake with lower risks of heart disease, stroke, and depression.
For longevity benefits, use extra virgin olive oil for cooking, dressings, and marinades. Mix in with roasted veggies or whole grain pasta. Studies show antioxidant benefits ramp up when paired with tomatoes!
5. Whole grains
From quinoa to brown rice to oats, whole grains provide a wealth of nutrients and fibre. Fibre stabilises blood sugar and lowers 'bad' LDL cholesterol, decreasing risks for diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
Aim for 3-4 servings of whole grains daily. Enjoy a bowl of porridge for breakfast, quinoa salad for lunch, and brown rice with dinner. Look for '100% whole grain' on the label.
6. Beans and legumes
Kidney beans, chickpeas, lentils - beans rock! 'They supply sustained energy, thanks to their fibre, protein and complex carbs,' says Jamieson. Multiple studies link legume consumption with lower risks of heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure.
Their sturdy fibre also promotes good gut health. Add beans or lentils into salads, soups, and rice dishes a few times per week.
7. Yoghurt
Yoghurt contains beneficial probiotics, the 'good bacteria' that promote healthy digestion and immune function. Studies correlate yoghurt intake with enhanced gut health and better weight maintenance.
Stick to plain, unsweetened varieties and aim for 1-2 servings daily. Yoghurt parfaits make an ideal breakfast, or use yoghurt as the base for smoothies.
8. Turmeric
This vivid yellow spice contains the compound curcumin, which has strong anti-inflammatory properties. Studies show curcumin may help lower risks of arthritis, heart disease, and even certain cancers like colorectal.
'For best absorption, always pair turmeric with black pepper,' advises Dr. Patel. Sprinkle both spices into soups, curries, roasted veggies, and grain dishes. Or blend into golden milk - a soothing beverage.
9. Dark chocolate
Here's a tasty longevity booster! Dark chocolate with 70% or more cocoa contains flavanols, which promote circulation and heart health. Researchers found those who regularly ate chocolate showed reduced risks of cardiovascular-related death.
Stick to a small 28-56 grams per serving to keep added sugar and calories in check. Melt a few chunks into porridge or add to your homemade baked goods for guilt-free treats!
10. Red wine
Raise a glass to red wine! When consumed moderately, red wine offers longevity benefits thanks to an antioxidant called resveratrol, plus additional polyphenols. These compounds help protect cells from damage and reduce inflammation.
Moderate intake means up to 1 glass of red wine daily for women and 1-2 for men. Beyond that may negate benefits. If avoiding alcohol, grape juice and red grapes also supply beneficial polyphenols.
Key Takeaways
- He recommends eating portions of fruit and vegetables, nuts and seeds, whole grains, olive oil, legumes, yoghurt and fermented foods in your diet.
- Other beneficial foods include turmeric, garlic, a moderate amount of red wine, and occasionally, dark chocolate.
- These foods have various benefits, ranging from heart health to weight management, digestive aid and immune function, and the reduction of risks of heart disease and diabetes.
Adding more of these 10 foods into your meals and snacks is a tasty way to promote longevity. Developing healthy lifelong habits also involves staying active, managing stress, and enjoying time with loved ones.
So fill your plate with fruit, veggies, nuts and whole grains. Toast to long life with a splash of red wine. And remember, small bites of dark chocolate count too! Adopting a balanced diet rich in unprocessed superfoods nourishes your cells from head to toe - helping you stay vibrant and healthy for years to come. Are you right on the path or planning to become a healthier version of yourself? Share your thoughts with us below, members!
And please keep in mind, you should always speak to your medical practitioner before altering your diet. They are the experts and know what is best for you!
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