Experts suggest that maintaining a healthy lifestyle might hinge less on rigid diets and more on choosing enjoyable, high-quality foods. Kelly Springer, a registered dietitian from New York and founder of Kelly’s Choice, emphasizes that enjoying your meals can help alleviate stress, enhance digestion, and foster a better relationship with food. This isn’t about overindulging, but rather selecting foods that positively impact both physical and mental well-being.
Simon Feldhaus, a longevity specialist from Switzerland with three decades of experience, shares a similar perspective. He asserts to CNBC’s “Make It” that there isn’t a one-size-fits-all healthy diet; instead, it’s about consuming foods that genuinely make people feel good.
“For me, nutrition and eating are more emotional than just scientific,” he explains. “Of course, there are days I stray from these guidelines, but I try to stick to them most of the time.”
Experts identify certain foods that can elevate mood and support long-term health. Here are some noteworthy options:
1. High-Quality Dairy Products and Cheese
Feldhaus’s approach centers on high-quality proteins and fats. Although he avoids milk, he actively includes yogurt in his diet. He underscores the significance of food quality over the types of foods consumed. Dr. Amy Hornaman from Penn State agrees, noting that ingredient quality plays a critical role, stating, “Your cells are literally made from the food you eat.” Springer advises opting for minimally processed foods and being mindful of nutrition labels.
2. High-Quality Farmed Meat
Feldhaus isn’t picky about which protein is best, but he believes the source matters most, favoring Swiss beef and locally sourced meats. “I aim for this quality in all my food,” he remarked. Springer adds that high-quality meats and cheeses typically contain fewer additives and are more nutrient-dense, which may help optimize intake while providing better energy.
3. Seasonal Vegetables
If something doesn’t grow in Switzerland during a particular season, Feldhaus omits it from his meals. Springer highlights that seasonal produce is often more nutritious because it’s harvested at peak ripeness, and better-tasting vegetables can encourage increased intake.
4. Flavorful Black Bread
Feldhaus doesn’t eliminate carbohydrates; instead, he prefers hearty options like brown or whole wheat bread. Hornaman points out that this tactic aligns with nutritional logic. “Fast-acting carbs can lead to insulin spikes, affecting metabolism and mood,” she explains. A balanced diet incorporating slow-digesting carbs, proteins, and fats can yield better results.
5. Foods Rich in Omega-3s
Feldhaus’s diet includes eggs and fatty fish, which are essential sources of omega-3 fatty acids. He believes that lecithin-rich egg yolks are vital for brain health. Springer emphasizes that omega-3s can decrease inflammation and enhance cognitive function and overall healthy aging. Hornaman adds that increasing omega-3 intake can lead to improved mood and clarity.
6. Galactose Sugar
This unusual carbohydrate provides Feldhaus with energy without spiking insulin levels. Some studies suggest that galactose can be a hypoglycemic energy source, though others link high doses to aging concerns. Experts urge caution, indicating that while galactose metabolizes differently than glucose, it’s still transformed into glucose in the liver.
Springer notes that people can obtain galactose naturally through high-quality dairy and seasonal plants. Ultimately, she believes, “Longevity is about consistency.” Prioritizing high-quality, minimally processed foods and enjoying meals lays the foundation for lasting health.
