Lately we’ve seen a lot of news about the “longevity diet”, so we wanted to share this information with you. The so-called “longevity diet” isn’t a prescribed eating program, like a weight loss diet or a program aimed at those with allergies. It’s really all about awareness of what foods fight disease, lower health risks, and help you age more comfortably.

So yes, in a sense you could say that the “longevity diet” helps you live longer, by lowering your risk of serious conditions like cancer and heart disease. But remember it is just a general eating plan, with genetics and other lifestyle factors also influencing your health.

Antioxidants from fruits and vegetables. Antioxidants help to eliminate free radicals, which increase your risk of diseases like cancer, in the body. Eating brightly colored fruits and vegetables, because they are rich in antioxidants, can help you fight disease and even slow the signs of aging. Berries, tomatoes, peppers, squash, and citrus are all excellent choices. Try to eat a variety of produce according to the rainbow; include some red, some orange, some yellow, and so on.

“Good fats”. Some people believe that all fats are bad, but this actually isn’t true! Some fats are not only a necessary part of a healthy diet, but also fight disease, improve cholesterol levels, and protect brain health. These fats also lower inflammation in the body, helping you to ward off conditions like arthritis and atherosclerosis (clogging of the arteries). Look for healthy fats in foods like olive oil, walnuts, and fatty fish like salmon.

Fiber. A diet high in fiber aids digestion, helps you control your weight, and can protect against conditions like colon cancer and heart disease. Look for healthy fiber sources like beans, fruits and vegetables, and whole grains.

Leafy greens. Leafy greens contain antioxidants, vitamin K, and fiber. So while they might seem “boring”, they’re actually a powerhouse food! Jazz up basic salads with fruits, vegetables, crumbled cheeses, nuts, and a tangy dressing. Aim to eat one salad full of dark, leafy greens each day, and you can fight disease while managing your weight at the same time.

Food is your “fuel”, so treat your body right by making healthy choices! For more information on how diet influences your health, talk to your doctor or a registered dietician.