Take a little food and you will live longer

Eating defines many aspects of our health status. That is why you hear of so many catchphrases associated with food. ‘You are what you eat’ is one such common phrase. In its simplest interpretation, it implies a negative association of poor eating habits with health.

The selection of healthy foods is a no-brainer. It simply means eating lean animal proteins, fruits, vegetables and complex carbohydrates. One should limit the intake of processed foods, refined flours and sugar. But it’s not just the choice of foods, the amount you eat every day matters.

Scientific observations seem to suggest that those who eat less may live longer, compared to those eating enough to fill up their stomachs.
Eating less, also known as caloric restriction, doesn’t just benefit those who are already overweight.

The overweight folk will certainly reap benefits by losing excess weight. But the already healthy also appear to accrue additional benefits that include better psychological effects, sleep and sex drive. The association with longevity has been observed in mice and extrapolated in humans.

The mechanism appears to be the slowdown of a number of genetic ageing processes. Well, it isn’t easy to cut down the amount of calories you are used to. In one study, participants found it really difficult when they were asked to cut down their caloric intake by 25 per cent. But over a period of time, those adhering to the reduced caloric intake regime started to notice less hunger levels. They also noticed better mood, less tension, weight loss, less joint pains and better overall health, among other positives.

Try limiting your intake by eating foods that are low in calories but high in nutrients. Check the nutrition facts labels, and go for fewer high-fat foods. Serve smaller portions, and fill your plate with more fruits and vegetables. Go for variety, this will ensure you are getting ample quantities of all the recommended micro-nutrients and other substances.

You need to be selecting from the major food groups that include grains, vegetables, dairy, fruits, beans and meats. Avoid anything sugary, and wash it all down with plenty of water.

Even though eating less may maintain a healthy weight, you must still do some physical activities. This gives additional benefits that include better cardiovascular health and, muscle and bone health.

But you shouldn’t go to the other extreme of restricting your caloric intake to the point of starvation. Aim for a balance. Being cognizant of how much you are eating is the trick. Eating too much just bloats you, and makes you annoyingly flatulent. Eat just enough. You will be healthier, and may live longer.

— mrgalfred@aol.com