A doctor has discussed the best foods to eat if trying to extend your lifespan, according to new research.
Foods were ranked on how often they are consumed in areas where people routinely live past 100 years old.
The list was dominated by plant-based foods and vegetable broth came up top, according to longevity supplement company Omre. CEO Dr Pendram Kordrostami explained: "Vegetable broth appeared in 27 different recipes across various culinary traditions.
"The versatile ingredient forms the base of many plant-forward meals consumed in areas where people live longer, and is rich in nutrients, low in calories, and supports healthy digestion."
Plant-based foods dominated the list, with vegetable broth coming up top
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Top 10 foods for a longer life
- Vegetable broth
- Courgette
- Brown rice
- Olive oil
- Onion
- Carrot
- Corn
- Tomato
- Mint
- Red pepper flakes
Olive oil ranked highly in the list and it has been linked with improving heart health. Dr Kordrostami continued: “Olive oil, which forms the foundation of Mediterranean cuisine long associated with heart health, ranked fourth with 71.09 points (out of 100).
"Interestingly, animal products are completely absent from the top foods, as no meat or dairy products appear in the top ingredients favoured by centenarian populations."
Adding more plant-based foods into your diet could boost your health thanks to their high content of vitamins, healthy fats and/or fibre. A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine backed this up.
It found individuals who ate more plant-based foods had a lower risk of dying from all causes. Those who followed a plant-based diet high in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts and legumes had up to a 25 per cent reduced risk of mortality compared to those who did not.
Dr Kordrostami continued: “Plant-based diets continue to gain support as they are typically rich in fibre and antioxidants, and are linked to lower inflammation, improved gut health, and a reduced risk of disease.
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Olive oil was recommended
GETTY"This will have an obvious effect on longevity, as backed by this study. Just remember, no processed food serves your health better than simple, whole ingredients.
"People hoping to adopt longevity-promoting diets should try adding more of these plant-based, nutrient-rich foods to their meals.
“The research matches patterns observed in Blue Zone regions including Okinawa (Japan), Sardinia (Italy), Nicoya (Costa Rica), Ikaria (Greece), and Loma Linda (California).
"Residents in these areas consume diets rich in plant foods, legumes, whole grains and healthy fats while minimising processed foods and added sugars.”
