The “Live Longer” Diet Plan

By Tom Jordan, MS, RD

Great news to those of you out there who are following what First Health calls the “Anti-Inflammatory” diet. And for those who haven’t started yet, here’s some great motivation to kick it in gear.

A recent research study shows that eating an Anti-Inflammatory diet plan is a key to promoting a long and vigorous life.

Extending Healthy Life Years (HLY)

The study tracked over 100,000 people for 10 years to monitor their habits and life expectancy. They found that those who didn’t smoke, stayed at a healthy weight, and exercised regularly lived the longest. Obvious stats right? Another added factor that was identified however indicated that adhering to an Anti-Inflammatory meal plan, or “Mediterranean diet” was also significantly correlated to living longer!

Great, Another Diet?

NO! More great news! You can have your health and enjoy your food (we’re not going to ask you to eat carrot sticks and celery all day). One of the best things about the Mediterranean Diet is that it’s easy to stick to because the food tastes great! Sometimes called “the world's healthiest cuisine,” the Mediterranean diet emphasizes lots of plant proteins, fruits and vegetables, whole grains, fish, and heart-healthy monounsaturated fat, along with nuts and moderate alcohol consumption. It’s also low in refined grains, red meat, and sweets.

But Wait – There’s More!

Here are three more good reasons to adopt this diet plan:

• Protects blood vessels -- lowering heart disease risk
• Improves insulin sensitivity – lowering diabetes risk
• Fights against belly fat
• Improves brain function
• Helps with weight loss

Get started today!

Kick off your Mediterranean plan with this simple recipe for Mustard Crusted Salmon. Stir fry some fresh veggies like peppers and zucchini on the side to round out the antioxidant profile, and as the article states—yes you can enjoy a glass of red wine with your meal!

References:

The impact of a Mediterranean diet and healthy lifestyle on premature mortality in men and women. Van den Brandt, Piet A., American Journal of Clinical Nutrition 2011;94:913–920.

Learn more about Tom Jordan, Registered Dietitian

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