Longevity is a combination of genetics, diet and lifestyle.
When it comes to diet, eating plenty of protein can support the body and help people to live longer.
Protein is an important macronutrient that helps build muscle in the body.
Chief medical officer and chief scientific officer of Fountain Life Dr Helen Messier shared how it can help Britons to live longer.
Dairy is high in protein
PA
She said: “We do need protein. Protein makes up the building blocks of our muscles in our body, the collagen in our skin our bones.
“We also know that muscle mass is a key determiner of our longevity… one of the best predictors of mortality and longevity is just grip strength.
“Overall strength and muscle mass is important for longevity.”
Foods that are high in protein include meat, fish, dairy and eggs.
How much protein someone needs depends on factors such as how active they are and if they have any illnesses that might be affected, such as kidney disease.
However, Dr Messier added: “The estimates are somewhere around 0.8 to one gram of protein per pound of bodyweight daily.”
The expert continued to say there are many things that can contribute to a longer lifespan and one of the easiest factors to focus on is diet.
While there is “no one right diet for everybody”, there are some “principles” that will work for most people.
A doctor shared foods to boost longevity
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She said: “Getting your phytonutrients from plants, making sure you get enough for your basic nutrients, vitamins, minerals and so on is critical.
“Making sure you get enough protein for muscle mass and muscle synthesis is critical.
“Make sure you get enough of the healthy fats because our cell membranes are made up of fats.”
While it is important to focus on these foods, the doctor stressed diet is “all about balance”, she said on the podcast Moonshots with Peter Diamandis.
Sarah Carter is a health and wellness expert residing in the UK. With a background in healthcare, she offers evidence-based advice on fitness, nutrition, and mental well-being, promoting healthier living for readers.
