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Lengthy earlier than Bryan Johnson grew to become well-known for his excessive biohacking—present process numerous assessments, following strict consuming habits, and taking dozens of dietary supplements within the title of residing eternally—Valter Longo was obsessive about longevity.
In a profile of the scientist within the New York Times, Longo, a professor of gerontology and director of the USC Longevity Institute in California, says he needs to reside 120 to 130 wholesome years. His drive for longevity aligns with a rising curiosity in extending health span, the variety of years lived freed from illness, versus life span—which refers back to the variety of years lived.
The Italian life-style has lengthy been thought of the gold customary for longevity, with the concentrate on the Mediterranean diet, walkability, and group. Sardinia, Italy, is likely one of the 5 authentic Blue Zones—areas the place folks reside the longest, healthiest lives. Classes from the residents of Sardinia had been the main target of one of many episodes of Dan Buettner’s Netflix documentary Living to 100.
Longo, who was born and raised in Italy, factors out that right this moment, “nearly no person in Italy eats the Mediterranean weight loss plan.”
Italy’s youth are going through weight problems due to what Longo calls the “toxic 5 P’s—pizza, pasta, protein, potatoes, and pane (or bread),” Jason Horowitz writes within the NYT. Longo fears Italians will reside lengthy however not healthfully if this sample continues to dominate the tradition.
Learn how to reverse it? Longo, creator of The Longevity Food plan, is a proponent of the unique Mediterranean weight loss plan, which consists of plant-based meals and nuts. He has his personal recipes for longevity on his web site, which embody candy and bitter sardines, stuffed artichokes, cabbage patties, and onions in walnut sauce.
He additionally champions one other comparatively new idea within the area—fake fasting, or a fasting-mimicking diet. This refers to limiting meals consumption, which is meant to assist the physique reap the advantages of fasting with out absolutely abstaining from meals. In keeping with Longo’s web site, the protocol features a weight loss plan low in carbohydrates and protein and excessive in fatty acids. “The Fasting Mimicking Food plan patented recipe permits your physique to stay in a fasting like mode, which triggers a set of protectionist measures that the physique has developed throughout pure choice,” his site reads. “This enables the physique to optimize its efficiency, rejuvenate its cells, and thrive underneath demanding circumstances.”
Analysis has discovered each advantages and disadvantages to intermittent fasting, however its continued recognition demonstrates the lengths folks will go to within the hope of extending their lives.
A model of this story was initially printed on Fortune.com on November 20, 2024.
For extra on the longevity motion:
- Wealthy men are spending millions to lower their biological ages and live longer. These girls are reducing their organic age with cheaper options
- Will you live to 150? Right here’s what 5 geneticists and ageing researchers say
- Move over, pina coladas: Get Botox and stem cells on this luxurious wellness cruise
- The longevity secrets of Singapore, the sixth blue zone metropolis the place individuals are residing the longest, happiest lives
This story was initially featured on Fortune.com