Longevity Expert Says Healthy Diets Should Include Plenty Of Carbs

Longevity expert Dan Buettner recommends a healthy diet rich in complex carbohydrates. While some diets advise cutting down on carbs, Buettner emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between nutrient-dense carbohydrates like beans and whole grains, and less nutritious carbs like candy and cakes. He stresses that the longest-living people thrive on complex carbs and suggests that around 70 percent of a person's calories should come from complex carbohydrates.

Buettner's research on longevity hotspots and Blue Zones has shown that people who live the longest primarily consume complex carbohydrates. These foods provide essential energy for the body, including the brain, which requires glucose for proper functioning. While indulging in plant-based treats is okay occasionally, Buettner recommends focusing on nutrient-dense complex carbohydrates for optimal health and longevity.