Dr. Morgan Levine, author of True Age, explains that the impact of diet on aging and longevity is determined by three factors: quantity, quality, and timing of food intake.
Caloric Restriction
Caloric restriction, typically a 20% reduction in overall calorie intake, has been shown to be linked to increased lifespan in several animal models. However, the positive effects may stem from avoiding overeating rather than the restriction itself.
Food Quality
A plant-based diet, which includes fewer animal products and refined sugars and is rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole foods, appears to be beneficial for aging and longevity.
Meal Timing
Fasting, or limiting food intake to specific time windows, may bring similar benefits to caloric restriction by inducing “hormesis”—mild stressors that boost resilience against aging-related changes.
The ideal diet may vary for each individual, influenced by factors such as genetics and age, and should be monitored through biological age markers and personal health status. Future research on aging biomarkers could enhance our understanding of diet’s role in the aging process.
In the video “Changing Diet for Longevity” on the Big Think YouTube channel with nearly 8 million subscribers, Dr. Morgan Levine presents key topics:
- Does diet affect aging?
- Caloric restriction
- What you eat
- When you eat: Fasting
- Hormesis: Building biological resilience
- What is the ideal diet for you?
Watch the full video HERE.