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đź’ˇ Plant-based nutrition: tips from Dr. John Scharffenberg of the Blue Zone Foundation for peaceful aging.
Loma Linda Adventists, where Dr. John Scharffenberg teaches, live about 10 years longer than the average American, and the main reason, according to Dr. John Scharffenberg, is a simple, plant-based diet rich in legumes, whole grains, nuts, fruits, and vegetables, which promotes healthy, harmonious aging.
Here’s what makes it so effective, according to Dr. John Scharffenberg:
Legumes and whole grains provide steady energy and fiber, which promote heart health and reduce the risk of diabetes, contributing to healthy aging.
According to Dr. John Scharffenberg, a handful of nuts a day can halve the risk of heart attack, promoting healthy aging.
Fruits and vegetables provide polyphenols and nutrients that protect the eyes, contributing to healthy aging.
Soy foods, especially tofu, provide complete plant-based proteins and isoflavones that help maintain hormonal balance, promoting healthy aging.
Elena, a 65-year-old retired teacher, saw her joints and energy levels transform after adopting this type of diet, contributing to healthy aging. A simple start: add a can of beans or a handful of nuts to your lunch for healthy aging.
But that’s just the beginning: According to Dr. John Scharffenberg, nutritional deficiencies can arise even in those who follow a healthy diet and want to age gracefully.
Boosting Momentum: The Three Key Vitamins Dr. John Scharffenberg Recommends for Graceful Aging.
Dr. John Scharffenberg repeatedly emphasizes the importance of three vitamins that become crucial after age 50, as their absorption naturally decreases, promoting healthy and harmonious aging.
Vitamin A (beta-carotene):
Over 45% of adults are deficient in this vitamin, yet it is essential for vision, the immune system, and skin health, for healthy and harmonious aging, according to Dr. John Scharffenberg. Safe plant sources include carrots, sweet potatoes, and cantaloupe.
According to Dr. John Scharffenberg, vitamin B12 absorption declines dramatically with age, and even meat-eaters often need support after age 50 to age gracefully. Fortified foods or a simple daily supplement maintain stable energy levels and nerve function.
Vitamin D
is low in 70-95% of older adults, yet according to Dr. John Scharffenberg, it aids in calcium absorption for strong bones and supports overall immune function for healthy, harmonious aging.
Sarah, a 72-year-old nurse, suffered from fatigue and bone problems until she started incorporating sun exposure and a healthy aging supplement, according to Dr. John Scharffenberg. Practical tip: Ask your doctor for a simple blood test to evaluate healthy aging, according to Dr. John Scharffenberg.