Why focus on food for longevity?

What difference could making positive dietary changes make to your lifespan? 

Many studies support a link between positive food choices and health but we are now starting to see data to suggest that habitual food habits impact life expectancy. 

In a recent study analysing UK Biobank data of just under 470,000 participants, where a model was applied to estimate life expectancy gains from sustained dietary changes, it was suggested that dietary shifts towards ‘longevity associated dietary patterns’ could add up to 10 years to life. 

The largest gains were driven by whole grains, nuts and fruit consumption and lack of processed foods and sugary beverages. 

Written: May 2025

Your gut microbiota may hold the key to longevity! 

Studies have shown that those who are healthier in older age tend to have gut bacteria strains that are more like the typical microbiome of younger individuals. 

With gut microbiota typically shifting as we age with the decline in beneficial bacteria and increase in potentially pathogenic microbes, we can employ strategies to keep our microbiome healthier such as:

1. Ensure you're eating enough fibre to promote the growth of beneficial bacteria and enhance microbial diversity.
2. Consider supplementing with a probiotic to improve gut health, enhance immune function and reduce inflammation.
3. Exercise regularly. This has been shown to restore favourable ratios of bacteria, improve short chain fatty acid production and boost intestinal mucosal immunity. 

Written: June 2025