Ageing scientists have made significant breakthroughs in understanding old age, highlighting the vital impact of diet.
Not all foods support longevity equally, with leading nutritionist and functional medicine practitioner Dr Kenny Mittelstadt recommending some for a longer life.
He emphasised that the key to a longer life lies in maintaining a consistent, nutrient-rich diet rather than focussing on individual foods.
"As a functional medicine practitioner, I see longevity as the product of consistent, cumulative habits," he declared.
The key to a longer life lies in maintaining a nutrient-rich diet
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When consumed regularly, however, the following eight foods may offer good support to cellular health, heart function and cognitive performance.
Dark leafy greens like spinach, kale, and collard greens are essential for combating cellular ageing, with vitamins A, C and K widely recognised for their anti-ageing effects.
Berries, particularly blueberries, blackberries and raspberries, support heart and brain health through their antioxidant content, including anthocyanins which give the fruits their vibrant colours.
Extra virgin olive oil, one of the key ingredients of the Mediterranean diet, offers heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants.
Dr Mittelstadt advised: "Add it after cooking rather than cooking with it to reap maximum benefits and avoid damaging the oil's delicate structure."
Legumes and beans are an excellent source of fibre and plant-based protein in the diet, supporting heart health and blood sugar balance.
Less conventional longevity-boosting foods enjoyed by Dr Mittelstadt include seaweed and algae. Notable varieties like nori and chlorella offer significant benefits for metabolic and thyroid health benefits through their rich mineral content.
Mushrooms, particularly varieties like shiitake, reishi and lion's mane, offer health benefits through beta-glucans and have been studied for the treatment of stress and cognitive function.
Quinoa, a pseudocereal related to beets and spinach, contains all nine of the essential amino acids.
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A high-fibre diet helps stabilise blood sugar and support gut health
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"Its high-fibre content helps stabilise blood sugar and support gut health, and it can be a great substitute for higher glycemic grains such as rice," pointed out Dr Mittelstadt.
Dark chocolate with at least 70 per cent content, offers unique heart health and mood benefits thanks to its rich polyphenols and flavanols.
For optimal benefits, Dr Mittelstadt recommended choosing an ethically sourced brand with a fair trade certification.
But he stressed that the path to longevity isn't about consuming individual superfoods, but rather maintaining a nutrient-rich diet over time.
