HealthUnlocking longevity: German doctor's diet and lifestyle secrets for a better life

Unlocking longevity: German doctor's diet and lifestyle secrets for a better life

The doctor claims to have discovered the secret to a long life. The key is diet.
The doctor claims to have discovered the secret to a long life. The key is diet.
Images source: © Pixabay
Bartłomiej Nowak

8 May 2024 13:11

Prof. Dr. Andreas Michalsen believes he has found the key to living a long and fulfilling life. His insights are detailed in his bestselling books, and he recently shared some of his secrets in an interview with journalists from the German newspaper "Die Welt." According to the 62-year-old physician, the cornerstone of longevity is healthy eating and establishing good habits.

German doctor Andreas Michalsen claims that as much as 91% of our health is in our hands. The choices we make in our diet can either hasten or considerably slow down the aging process. Genetics play a minor role, contributing to just the remaining 9%.

It used to be thought that genes accounted for about 20 to 30 percent of longevity. Research by Calico has reduced this figure to just 9% (...) How healthy we age is 90 percent up to us. This, I believe, presents a real opportunity – warns Michalsen.

Dr. Michalsen also highlights the importance of physical activity, noting that inactivity and a poor diet can lead to chronic diseases. It's our choice - spending an evening watching TV or going for a walk, Eating processed foods like chips, fries, and pizza, or opting for healthier alternatives like fruits, vegetables, and nuts.

Doctor and bestselling author Andreas Michalsen asks, "Live 20 years longer?" and provides crucial advice for gaining "extra years." He believes certain foods positively affect our bodies and health, and everyone should include them in their diet.

See also: Incorporate these and potentially add up to 24 years to your life. Here are eight habits

The three most critical foods to eat daily are legumes, such as beans, lentils, and chickpeas. I would also recommend whole grains over white flour — including pasta made from them. There are many excellent and tasty products available. Lastly, I would include nuts and seeds in the list - the German expert enumerates.

Dietary restrictions and the practice of intermittent fasting

Dr. Michalsen acknowledges that not everyone is cut out for ascetic living from the start and suggests a gradual transition to healthier eating habits. Reducing certain foods might take several months.

The more challenging part involves minimizing intake of sausages, meat, sweets, and alcohol. Instead, focus on increasing fruits and vegetables in your diet. (...) I advocate for a moderate form of intermittent fasting, such as 14 hours of fasting paired with a 10-hour eating window - recommends Dr. Andreas Michalsen.
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