KEY POINTS

  • Improving one's life expectancy is a quest of almost everyone
  • Researchers continuously try to find ways and means to help improve man's longevity
  • Study says that you must include two food groups in your diet to help you do this

The human race has always been on the lookout for better ways to improve health and longevity. While it is an undeniable fact that no one is going to live forever, there is always that desire to add just a little bit more years to their lives.

In fact, many people want to enjoy their retirement and watch their grandchildren grow without having to worry about acquiring serious health ailments or diseases. The good news is that this is possible with the help of carefully chosen foods and diet.

A new study has shown that particular food groups could help you live longer. Two of these food groups even came as a surprise to researchers.

food groups for increase of life expectancy
food groups for increase of life expectancy ExplorerBob - Pixabay

A New Study

Fresh evidence has been offered by a recent study conducted by US researchers. Involving over 37,200 adults, the new study provides strong evidence that both low-fat and low-carb diets aid in improving longevity. Their findings may put to rest the never-ending low-fat versus low-carb diet when it comes to eating healthy.

According to the new study, diets that contain lots of processed meats and refined carbs may shorten your lifespan. At the same time, researchers say that whole grains, healthy fats, vegetables, and nuts are among the best foods to consume to enjoy a longer and healthier life.

Evidence from the study strengthens the findings of earlier studies proving that diets rich in both healthy carbs and healthy fats could help you live life past 100. The study also took note of the fact that mortality may strongly depend on the quality, as well as food sources, of macronutrients. Life longevity with these types of foods is hugely determined on whether they are loaded with low-quality carbs and processed fats. Many are aware these low-quality carbs and processed fats are bad for the health. These include red meat, white bread, and sugar.

Zhilei Shan, the author of the study and a Harvard University research scientist, said that it does not matter whether people opt for low-fat or low-carb diets. What matters most is the quality of the macronutrients they receive.

Another food expert, Dane Buettner, agreed and also said that every longevity diet in the world has four pillars, namely, greens, beans, whole grains, and nuts. Buettner has examined the diets of people living in the Blue Zones all over the world, which saw people living over 100 with regularity.

Foods to Be Consumed

The study’s findings solidified past researches and studies pointing to plant-based diets. This diet contains lots of nutritious phytochemicals, vitamins, fiber, and minerals. In short, consume only foods that come straight from the earth and not out of some machine sitting in a factory.