A longevity expert has suggested that eliminating certain foods from your kitchen could potentially extend your lifespan. While some of these common items might be difficult to part with, the long-term health benefits could be worth it.
Researcher Dan Buettner has studied the Blue Zone lifestyle, which focuses on specific dietary and wellness practices observed in regions of the world where people tend to live significantly longer than in other areas. These lifestyle choices can be adopted anywhere in the world, although they may require swapping beloved comfort foods for healthier alternatives.
In a recent video, he stated: “I don’t care if you go out once in a while and treat yourself but [these are] the four things you should never enter the front door of your house.Processed meats were one of the first things banned by Dan.
He said: “We know that they are associated with cancer.” Cancer Research UK has linked processed and red meats (such as ham, bacon, corned beef and certain sausages) to an increased risk of developing bowel cancer, reports Surrey Live.
Three meat-related chemicals – haem, nitrates and heterocyclic amines – have been associated with a higher risk of bowel cancer. These chemicals, either naturally present in meat, added during processing or produced when cooking, can damage our bowel cells.
Over time, this accumulated damage can increase the risk of cancer. Cutting down on the amount of red or processed meats in your diet is a surefire way to reduce health risks. Opting for items like chicken, turkey, eggs, and plant-based proteins can ensure a varied nutrient profile while keeping things in check.
Dan issued a warning against sweet indulgences and sugary drinks, pinpointing “sugar-sweetened beverages” and “packaged sweets” as primary culprits for overconsuming refined sugars. To resist the urge, he advises not to keep these items within easy reach at home.
He advises: “If you want to enjoy these things, go out and get them. Don’t have them tempting you all the time in your house, and we’ll see you when you’re 100.”
The overconsumption of sugar is notorious for its negative impact on health, potentially resulting in weight gain, heightened risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and liver problems.
Turning to fresh or dried fruits satisfies the sweet tooth and at the same time boosts intake of essential nutrients such as fibre, vitamins and minerals. Fruits are lower in calories than sugary snacks, thus aiding in effective weight management.
Dried fruits may be best for those with a real sweet tooth. Because it’s dehydrated, dried fruit is highly concentrated in nutrients and sugar, making it even sweeter and calorie-dense than fresh fruit – so be mindful of your portions.
Moreover, the expert on longevity suggests resisting the temptation of salt-packed snacks like crisps. Excessive salt intake can lead to a plethora of health issues, including high blood pressure, an elevated risk of heart disease and kidney function complications, as well as a higher likelihood of stroke.
Adults are advised to limit their salt intake to no more than 6g per day (approximately 1 level teaspoon). This encompasses both the salt naturally present in our food and any additional salt used during or after cooking.
Before implementing any dietary changes, such as introducing or eliminating specific foods, it’s crucial to consult a doctor familiar with your medical history. They can guide you on how to safely make these changes without compromising essential nutrients in your diet.