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When we do use some simple carbohydrates that are in our signature dishes seen in traditional longevity regions. However, complex carbohydrates found in whole grain bread, legumes, and vegetables contain fiber and are broken down more slowly.Īt Nutrition for Longevity, we pride ourselves on providing meal plans that are rich in these complex carbohydrates with little to no added sugars. Simple carbohydrates, found in foods like white rice, white bread, and fruit juices, are broken down quickly and are converted into sugar by the time they reach the intestine. Eating foods with fiber is linked to a reduced risk of coronary heart disease, diabetes, and obesity.Ĭarbohydrates can also be divided into simple and complex carbohydrate categories.
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The third type of carbohydrate is fiber which is the indigestible part of plant foods. Sugar and starch provide glucose, which is the body's main source of energy, to the brain and central nervous system. Sugars are found naturally in fruits and vegetables. Starches are typically found in plant-based food items like vegetables, legumes, and whole grains. Each one plays a specific role in bodily functions and nutrition. Subdivided into three categories: starches, sugar, and fiber. Our meals contain about 10% to 20% of calories from protein which fits into the guidelines set by the Dietary Guidelines for Americans.Ĭarbohydrates are another essential macronutrient that contribute to a healthy and balanced diet, even though they sometimes get a bad rap! In fact, they are the body's main source of fuel and energy. According to his research, it is recommended to consume about 0.31 to 0.36 grams of protein per pound.
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Valter Longo and the Longevity Diet, which follows a mainly plant-based protein (with some fish and chicken) diet model. Here at Nutrition for Longevity, we base our meals on the research done by Dr. In addition, plant-based protein from foods like beans, soy, nuts, and seeds is low in saturated fat and contains no trans-fat or cholesterol. The quality of protein we eat, however, is especially important when looking at protein consumption, health, and overall health span.Ī variety of research has shown that a protein intake from mainly red meat and other animal sources can increase your risk for cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular, kidney, liver, and respiratory diseases, as well as mortality. In a study, it was reported that replacing protein from animal sources with plant-based protein sources was related to a reduced instance of disease and mortality. The Longevity Diet recommends that protein should fulfill about 10% to 20% of your daily calorie intake. These are deemed essential amino acids, meaning we can’t make them, so they must be consumed through food. Protein is sometimes called the body's building block - it is made up of about 20 different amino acids that each contribute to a number of important processes in the body. Some of these amino acids can be made by the body, but others, nine to be exact, cannot. Carbohydrates, protein, and fat are the 3 macros, and each of these are equally important in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Here at Nutrition for Longevity, we strive to provide you with meal plans that are well-balanced, nutritious, and, of course, delicious! But what makes us so special and why is the Longevity Diet so beneficial to our health? Let’s talk about this diet and the components that distinguish it from others.īefore we dive into the Longevity Diet, let’s break down some nutrition basics! What are macronutrients? A macronutrient is a nutrient that we need in relatively large quantities for growth, energy, and health.
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