This Simple Switch Could Add an Extra Year to Your Life
According to a study with over 400,000 participants, published in JAMA Internal Medicine, making a simple switch from animal to plant protein could quite possibly add an extra year to your life! Replacing just 3% of your calories from animal proteins with plant-based proteins was associated with a 10% reduced risk of mortality. And, if you take it a step further and substitute your egg whites for plants, that number jumps to an impressive 20%!
It’s not only about how long you live, but also how well – reducing animal consumption can manifest itself in improved physical and mental health. Eating more veggie proteins is associated with a lower risk of functional impairments, inadequate health, vitality issues, mental illnesses and chronic diseases. To make it even better, substitutes of just 1% of your animal proteins with plant proteins have been proven to bring about significant health advantages.
But what makes plant protein so special? Is it just a saturated fat issue? Fortunately, no – even after accounting for fat, studies still suggest that beneficial effects are most likely related to the avoidance of unhealthy animal components, coupled with the positive effects of plants – giving you that much-needed boost!
Turn Back the Clock on Skin Aging
Dishing on diet? You might be tempted to load up on the vegan eats, but don’t forget that a whole-food, plant-based diet can do way more than just keep you full – it can also turn back the clock on skin aging! That’s right – a study published in The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology has actually found that a well-rounded plant-based diet can lend a hand on everything from telomere lengthening to warding off the effects of gerontotoxins, resulting in younger-looking skin. Plus, it may even keep you feeling spry and youthful too!
Just look at the Adventists from Loma Linda, California – veggie lifestyle in full swing and length of life ticking into the 80s, some up to 10 years longer than those who don’t stick to the same healthy habits. That’s no coincidence – adopting this diet can lead to better health overall, lowered reliance on medication, fewer hospital stays and procedures, and a decreased risk of chronic diseases.
And when it comes to Alzheimer’s? We know the risk increases drastically with age, but appetite for plants may be able to slash the chance of developing this form of dementia by an impressive 50%! Food for thought, indeed!
This Diet Reduces Risk of Alzheimer’s by 53%
The MIND diet plan is one of the hottest topics of research – and for good reason! By following the plan, which emphasizes natural plant foods such as berries, the healthiest fruits, and greens, the healthiest vegetables, and limiting consumption of animal and high-saturated fat foods such as meat and dairy, a person can reduce their risk of developing Alzheimer’s by an incredible 53%. Even moderate adherence to the diet can cut the risk by a third.
So what’s the secret? Those who eat meat, including poultry and fish, seem to be more than two times as likely to be diagnosed with dementia than their vegetarian counterparts, as are those who’ve had a higher intake of meat in the past. Plant-based diets are thought to protect body cells from oxidative stress and inflammation, which are both key components of degenerative diseases, so it’s no wonder that berries, which are rich in antioxidants, are so protective.
It’s not just about diet, however. Regular physical exercise, like daily brisk walks, can lower the chances of getting Alzheimer’s further still. There’s also the issue of so-called ‘gerontotoxins’ – toxins that contribute to the aging process. Foods high on the list include broiled, grilled, fried, or roasted meats, as well as sugar-rich substances. Raw nuts and seeds are great sources of healthy fats, but roasted and toasted options don’t make the cut. So if you’re serious about dodging early onset dementia, put down that hotdog and reach for a handful of blueberries instead – trust us, you’ll thank us later!
Looking to prevent Alzheimer’s? Dietary choices are key! Cut down on the added sugar, saturated fats, animal products and processed foods. Increase your plant consumption – greens, beans and fruit (especially berries!) – and don’t forget to watch that added salt. Put all that together and you’ll be on your way to a healthy brain!
