The podcast features Dr. Michael Greger, a leading expert in nutrition and public health, discussing his latest insights from How Not to Age, where he reveals how dietary choices can combat ageing and chronic diseases. He emphasizes practical, evidence-based strategies for enhancing longevity, inspired by the habits of centenarians and blue zone residents.

Key Points:

Dr. Greger's insights highlight the central role of diet in healthy ageing, debunking popular myths and offering evidence-based strategies for extending life. His approach emphasizes prevention through nutrition rather than reliance on supplements or pharmaceuticals.

• The Power of Nutrition in Longevity: Dr. Greger emphasizes that diet plays a more significant role in longevity than stress management, as seen in large studies like the Global Burden of Disease, which shows that diet is the number one cause of death in the U.S., surpassing even smoking.
• Protein and Ageing Debate: Dr. Greger suggests that reducing protein intake may be beneficial for ageing, countering the idea that older adults need more protein. He highlights research showing that excess protein can promote ageing through pathways like IGF-1 and mTOR.
• Anti-Ageing Mechanisms and Diet: His book details 11 pathways influencing ageing, such as inflammation, glycation, and telomere length. Greger explains how diet, particularly a whole food, plant-based approach, can naturally target these mechanisms and slow down the ageing process.
• Omega-3 and Fish Controversy: Dr. Greger discusses concerns over contaminants like mercury in fish, advocating for plant-based sources of Omega-3s, such as algae-based supplements, to avoid pollutants while still gaining the benefits of DHA and EPA.
• Misleading Health Claims in Ageing: He critiques the anti-ageing industry for promoting products with exaggerated or unproven claims. His work aims to provide evidence-based strategies for ageing well, focusing on practical, scientifically backed dietary advice.
• Telomeres and Longevity: Greger points to research showing that lifestyle changes, particularly plant-based diets and stress management, can improve telomere length, a marker associated with ageing. He remains cautious but optimistic about future therapies in this area.