As the years go by, more and more people continue to seek out the magic formula for a longer life. The fountain of youth does not exist, but there are things you can do and foods you can eat to contribute to longevity. Moving your body on a regular basis and improving your diet can help promote a longer life. Knowing exactly which foods to eat for a longer life can be tricky, which is why we’ve detailed the top foods in this article.
Nobody needs to eat a perfect diet, but it is important to fill up on the right foods. Such foods include vegetables, fruits, whole grains, nuts, eggs, and wild caught fish. Health experts also advise that by filling up on those foods, the body won’t crave shelf-stable foods, refined carbs, high-sugar foods, or ultra-processed foods. The key to eating for longevity is finding the right balance of healthy options. Continue reading to learn about the best foods you should be eating to live a longer life.
Whole Grains
How can eating some barley, wild rice, millet, farro, bulgur, or oats add years to your life? One study from Harvard’s School of Public Health found that whole grains reduced blood pressure, triglyceride, and LDL (bad) cholesterol levels. Eating more whole grains also reduced your risk of developing type 2 diabetes, certain types of cancer, cardiovascular disease, and metabolic syndrome.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Not all oils are created equal. Certain oils do more harm to your heart than you realize, so opting for heart-healthy oils may promote longevity. Extra virgin olive oil, for example, is rich in monounsaturated fats, antioxidants, and polyphenolic compounds like oleuropein, according to research. Oleuropein exhibits anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, cardioprotective, and neuroprotective properties. A half-teaspoon of extra virgin olive oil per day may significantly lower the risk of death from cardiovascular disease, respiratory diseases, and certain types of cancer.
Cruciferous Vegetables
Brussels sprouts, kale, cabbage, broccoli, and cauliflower all belong to the cruciferous vegetable family. Not only do these vegetables contain a lot of vitamins and minerals, but they also exhibit anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties, according to studies. Many cruciferous vegetables are vital sources of magnesium, a mineral that’s involved with more than 600 enzyme reactions in the body. Additionally, cruciferous vegetables contain folate, which is a B vitamin that the body needs for DNA methylation, a process that switches the longevity genes on and off. As a general rule of thumb, fill three-quarters of your plate with these types of vegetables.
Berries
It’s no secret that berries are great sources of antioxidants. That means that they aid cell repair throughout the body, including the heart. Berries also tend to have a low glycemic load, which is why they are popular fruits to consume for diabetics and people who follow the ketogenic diet. They don’t spike blood sugar, which may help reduce the risk of diabetes, provided you don’t overload your body with other packaged sweets and refined carbs.
Tree Nuts And Seeds
Both tree nuts and seeds contain a lot of fiber and protein, two nutrients that are integral for overall health. Protein works to repair muscles and bones, in addition to making hormones and enzymes. Fiber helps to normalize bowel movements and improve overall gut health. Fiber also helps promote satiety, which can prevent you from unnecessary snacking. A recent study found that nuts and seeds are great snack choices to help reduce visceral fat content and improve insulin sensitivity. Some nuts and seeds also contain omega-3 fatty acids, which promote heart health and aid inflammation reduction.
Fermented Foods
Fermented foods contain beneficial bacteria that promote a healthy gut microbiome. These healthy bacteria may help enhance immune response, reduce inflammation, and increase the diversity of microbes in the gut, all of which may improve longevity. A diverse microbiome that has a higher presence of beneficial bacteria is not only essential for current health, but also long-term health. Generally, you should aim to consume one serving of fermented foods per day.
