The Recipe For Longevity Does Not Lie In Protein. New Research Has Found That Carbs Are More Important

Researchers analyzed hundreds of studies to identify the ideal diet for longevity and health. They found, that a diet rich in complex carbohydrates, sufficient protein intake and short fasting periods are best for humans.

The authors of a new study published in the prestigious journal Cell examined food composition, calorie intake, length and frequency of starvation, and found a "common denominator of nutrition" for healthy longevity.

According to scientific research, the ideal form of diet is pescatarianism, i.e. the consumption of a vegetarian diet, which includes fish and seafood. According to most studies, a plant-based diet leads to a lower risk of chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases, and thus to a longer life.

Carbs and protein

Interestingly, proteins are probably not as important as we thought. It is enough to have a low to sufficient protein intake by the age of 65, and it should be slightly higher after the age of 65, as this period is associated with a loss of muscle mass.

According to researchers, unrefined complex carbohydrates are much more important, especially vegetables, fruits, whole grains and legumes. We should allocate 30 percent of our calorie intake to vegetable fats such as nuts and olive oil.

On the other hand, we should limit the intake of refined sugars, red and processed meat and even white meat.

According to scientists, we also benefit from intermittent fasting, during which windows of eating and fasting alternate every 12 hours. 

However, researchers point out that an optimal diet for each individual depends on several health factors, including age, gender and genetics. It should therefore be, first and foremost, adapted to one's individual needs.