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OBESE ADOLESCENTS RUN THE RISK OF HEART PROBLEMS LATER IN LIFE

Many scientific studies show that obesity and excess weight constitute risk factors for cardiovascular diseases. A recent study, conducted at the Sahlgrenska Academy of the University of Gothenburg, Sweden, identified a correlation between obesity during adolescence and the emergence of myocardial diseases in adulthood. The findings were published in the scientific journal Circulation (May 2019) of the American Heart Association.

CORRELATION BETWEEN EXCESSIVE WEIGHT and CARDIOMYOPATHY
Researchers analyzed a large pool of 1,668,893 Swedish males, between the ages of 18-19, and who had done their military service between 1969 and 2005. For these individuals, data regarding weight, height and BMI were taken from an official enrollment registry of that period. Then, two national databases were examined, analyzing the number of individuals admitted for treatment (and reasons) as well as the number deceased. The researchers’ aim was to determine whether the ex-military personnel suffered from heart disease as adults, through the age of 46.

The findings showed that 4,477 of these male youth later developed cardiomyopathy at the median age of 45.5. Cardiomyopathy is a disorder that strikes the myocardium and may result in insufficient heart function, and even sudden death. Cardiomyopathy is comprised of two forms: dilated and hypertrophic. In dilated cardiomyopathy, the heart weakens and can no longer pump blood. In hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, the heart grows rigid and cannot take in enough blood. In both cases, cardiac functioning is diminished and can result in cardiac insufficiency or heart failure.

WHAT THE FIINDINGS SHOW

This study underscores that individuals who were overweight as adolescents, with BMI equivalent to 34 (which corresponds to mid-range obesity) had 8 times the chance of developing dilated cardiomyopathy as adults. In contrast, the Swedish male subjects who were thin (BMI less than 20) at 18 years old had a low risk of developing cardiomyopathy. This risk, however, increased gradually as their body weight increased.

Of course, it should be noted that the study was limited to male youth, and, thus, applying the findings in a broader sense would require further and analogous studies of the female population.

By Corinna Montana Lampo

For further scientific data and information on the topic of healthy lifestyles and eating habits, visit the website of the Valter Longo Foundation, FONDAZIONE VALTER LONGO, where various clinical studies can be found.

SOURCES

  1. Annika Rosengren et Al. – Higher Body Mass Index in Adolescence Predicts Cardiomyopathy Risk in Midlife, Long-Term Follow-Up Among Swedish Men – Circulation (May 2019)
  2. American Heart Association – Hearth News Being overweight as a teen may be associated with higher risk of heart muscle disease in adulthood – Circulation Journal Report (data ultimo accesso 01.08.2019)
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OBESITY IN ITALY: A THIRD OF ADULTS ARE OVERWEIGHT

On April 9 th , the Italian Obesity Barometer Report 2019 was published in Obesity
Monitor, on the occasion of the 1 st “Italian Obesity Summit – Changing ObesityTM Meeting”, held in Rome at the Residenza di Ripetta (Bernini Meeting Hall) and organized by the IBDO Foundation (Italian Barometer Diabetes Observatory). At the summit, key data collected by the IBDO Foundation together with ISTAT (Istitute of statistics) was presented on obesity and excess weight in Italy, providing a clear picture of the gravity of the current situation in Italy.

THE DATA SAYS IT ALL

The report demonstrates that more than 1 out of 3 Italians is overweight, and, more notably, one out of 10 is obese. Considering that obesity is constantly on the rise and constitutes a key risk factor for chronic diseases—like type 2 diabetes, cardio-vascular diseases and tumors these figures are alarming. Indeed, obesity represents a major public health problem today.

Let’s take a deeper look at the details of the report on obesity in Italy. It shows that 46% of adults (18 years and older), comprising more than 23 million individuals, and 24.2% of children and adolescents (aged 6-17), or 1 million and 700,000 individuals, are overweight. These figures reveal discrepancies in gender: women show lower rates of obesity (9.4%) than men (11.8%). Among children and adolescents, this discrepancy is even more notable: 20.8% of girls are overweight compared to 27.3% of boys.

DIFFERENCES AMONG REGIONS OF ITALY

Geography reveals further differences: the problem of excess weight is more widespread in the South of Italy and the islands, especially among young people. In the South and islands, 31.9% and 26.1% of children and adolescents, respectively, are overweight. The figures decrease moving north: 22% in Central Italy; 22.1% in the North East; and 18.9% in the North West. Among adults, geographical differences are less significant: 11.8% of adults in the South and islands are overweight; 10.6% in the North East; 10.2% in the North West; and dropping to 8.8% in Central Italy. Besides the gap between the North and South in Italy, there is a substantial difference between urban and rural areas. In small towns (i.e. fewer than 2,000 inhabitants), as many as 12% are obese, while in the big cities the percentage of obese individuals drops to 8.8%. However, in recent years (2001-2017), the greatest increases in obesity have been seen in metropolitan areas (6.8 to 8.8%) and in the suburbs (8.2% to 10.9%).

Two other critical trends emerge from the report. The first regards sedentary lifestyles, with a major gap between the North and South. In general, more than one third of young people in the South of Italy and the islands (with the exception of Sardinia) do not practice sports or do physical activity (42% in Sicily; 41.3% in Campania; 40.1% in Calabria). In addition, it appears that education plays a key role in determining obesity rates: a degree in higher education constitutes a safeguard against obesity, especially in terms of prevention. Only 6.6% of those with college diplomas are obese, while figures climb to as much as 14.2% for those with only a middle school diploma. Moreover, 18.5% of children of parents with college degrees are obese, a figure that grows to 29.5% for children of parents who have little formal education.

WHAT STEPS SHOULD BE TAKEN?

The findings of the report underscore the need for strategic programs that focus especially on prevention and treatment of this illness, as the latter grows increasingly more costly for healthcare, the economy, and society. Indeed, obesity constitutes a health emergency, with dire repercussions for the health of the individual— namely quality of life and longevity, but also with serious consequences for society, in terms of economic costs. Thus, the 1st Italian Obesity Summit – Changing Obesity TM Meeting offers a crucial starting point for debate, especially on the institutional level by demanding attention from policymakers. One aim of the IBDO Foundation in publishing the Italian Obesity Barometer Report was, in fact, to share key data and other useful information that can form the basis of new policy, guarantee access to treatment, and ultimately promote better health by endorsing a healthy lifestyle and diet.

by Corinna Montana Lampo, journalist

>>> >>> Follow us on Facebook for more scientific information on healthy lifestyles and eating habits.

SOURCES: Italian Obesity Barometer Report 2019

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Nel 2019, quasi 500mila persone hanno dovuto rivolgersi a 1.844 enti non profit per affrontare un problema di salute. Ecco i dati del 7° Rapporto sulla Povertà Sanitaria in Italia.

Povertà Sanitaria in aumento

Per la propria salute le persone povere in Italia possono spendere solo da 4 a 14 volte in meno rispetto al resto della popolazione

Il 4 dicembre 2019 è stato presentato dalla Fondazione Banco Farmaceutico il 7° Rapporto sulla Povertà Sanitaria. Quest’anno, quasi 500mila italiani non hanno potuto acquistare medicinali di cui avevano bisogno per motivi economici. Inoltre, la richiesta di farmaci da parte degli enti di assistenza sanitaria ha raggiunto il picco (rispetto agli ultimi 7 anni) con +4,8% rispetto al 2018, con oltre 1 milione di confezioni di medicinali richiesti.

Il direttore dell’OPSan (Osservatorio Povertà Sanitaria di Fondazione Banco Farmaceutico) riporta dati davvero preoccupanti per l’Italia, dove circa 5 milioni di persone vertono in condizioni di povertà assoluta. Una situazione che non consente nemmeno di affrontare le spese per le cure. Anche le famiglie non povere, però, nell’ultimo anno si sono viste costrette a limitare le spese sanitarie. In particolare,  hanno ridotto tale quota il 19% delle famiglie non povere e il 37% delle famiglie povere.

Per comprendere le condizioni in cui si trovano queste ultime, basti pensare che in media possono spendere solo:

  • 2,19 euro al mese per i servizi odontoiatrici
  • 0,79 euro al mese per l’acquisto di articoli sanitari
  • 1,30 euro per le attrezzature terapeutiche
  • 4,61 euro per i servizi medico ospedalieri
  • 1,31 euro per i servizi paramedici

Per rendersi conto della esiguità di queste cifre, si possono confrontare con quelle del resto della popolazione, che risultano essere da 4 a 14 volte maggiori:

  • 31,16 euro al mese per i servizi odontoiatrici
  • 4,42 euro al mese per l’acquisto di articoli sanitari
  • 12,32 euro per le attrezzature terapeutiche
  • 19,10 euro per i servizi medico ospedalieri
  • 9,35 euro per i servizi paramedici

La situazione risulta ancora più grave se si pensa che sono proprio le famiglie con figli minorenni a dover fronteggiare i maggiori problemi di accesso al diritto alla salute. Condizione che sta contribuendo a ingigantire il record tutto italiano di obesità infantile (ogni 10 bambini e ragazzi, ben 4 sono in sovrappeso e di questi, 2 sono obesi).

Questo accade perché spesso il cibo più economico è anche quello meno sano, ovvero più ricco di grassi saturi, zuccheri e proteine animali, ma povero di nutrienti essenziali, come vitamine e minerali. Il cibo a buon mercato, infatti, non è per nulla completo e nutriente, ma anzi contribuisce ad aumentare il grasso sia negli adulti sia in bambini e ragazzi.

I minorenni in condizione di povertà assoluta sono 1 milione 260mila, ovvero il 12,6% degli under 18 residenti nel nostro Paese. In questo scenario, le famiglie che si trovano in condizioni di ristrettezza economica, per un supporto nell’affrontare un problema di salute, possono rivolgersi ad associazioni e fondazioni onlus, che rappresentano un servizio sanitario sussidiario al Sistema Sanitario Nazionale, costruito grazie alla generosità di questi enti.

È proprio con lo scopo di aiutare chi è più in difficoltà, per motivi di salute e/o per motivi economici che le due fondazioni onlus fondate dal Professor Valter Longo (Fondazione Valter Longo e Create Cures Foundation) sono nate e cercano strategie serie e creative.

In particolare, le due Fondazioni offrono visite nutrizionali a prezzi agevolati per tutti e gratuite per chi è meno fortunato, senza nessuna distinzione di sesso, età, razza, credo religioso, ecc.

Le attività delle due Fondazioni si fanno promotrici di offrire assistenza nutrizionale, programmi di sensibilizzazione, educazione alimentare, seminari e consulenze, nell’ottica di offrire a tutti l’opportunità di una vita sana e longeva e di avere anche un impatto positivo sul miglioramento della salute pubblica.

Fondazione Valter Longo e Create Cures Foundation vogliono assumere questo impegno pubblico verso la parte della popolazione che sperimenta le maggiori difficoltà sociali ed economiche.

Per maggiori informazioni: [email protected] e [email protected]

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OUR CHRISTMAS MENU: A TOAST TO GOOD HEALTH, DELICIOUS FOOD, AND HOLIDAY TRADITION

The holidays are a time to celebrate with friends and family—often over rich and elaborate meals to ring in the holiday cheer. Yet, these decadent traditions can result in indigestion and even extra pounds.

The following simple tips can help you enjoy the holidays without over-indulging—or feeling guilty:

  • Choose simple dishes that contain little fat and added sugar;
  • Reduce your portion sizes, so you can taste everything without overdoing it;
  • Avoid adding condiments (salt, oil, sauces or dips);
  • Steer free of sugary soft drinks or sparkling beverages. Instead, aim to drink 2 liters of water a day;
  • Keep active: get off the couch and leave the dinner table now and then to stretch your legs between courses (for example, help out in the kitchen or serving the guests);
  • At the end of the meal, if possible, go for a long walk with your loved ones, bringing along the little ones!

If you need help preparing a simple and healthy Christmas lunch, we can help!

We have created a Christmas Menu just for you that is abundant in tasty, seasonal ingredients and features easy recipes from the book Alla tavola della longevità  by Prof. Valter Longo.

APPETIZER:

Chard and Ricotta Tart

Serves 6

  • 400 g of all-purpose flour
  •  2 kg of chard or collard greens (whole leaves)
  • 1 handful of breadcrumbs
  • 300 g of goat-milk ricotta
  • Extra-virgin olive oil
  • Salt and pepper

Trim the greens, keeping only the leaves. Wash and chop, then lightly salt and let sit to drain for 15 minutes.  Mix with the cheese, breadcrumbs, a pinch of pepper and 2 tablespoons of oil. Mix the flour with water, 2 tablespoons of oil and a generous pinch of salt until a dough forms. Divide in half and roll out two sheets of dough that are just are slightly bigger than the tart pan. Brush the pan bottom lightly with oil, and position the first sheet of dough in the pan. Pour the mixture of greens and cheese over the bottom sheet, and spread until even. Cover with the second sheet of dough, pressing the edges of both sheets together to seal. Brush the dough with plenty of oil and then use a fork to poke holes in the surface. Bake in the oven at 200 °C until the tart crust is golden in color.

FIRST COURSE:

Pumpkin Risotto

Serves 4

  • 250 g of rice
  • 250 g of pumpkin (pulp)
  • 20 g of butter
  • 30 g of shallots
  • 1/2 cup of dry white wine
  • 1.5 liters of vegetable broth
  • Extra-virgin olive oil
  • Parsley
  • 20 g of grana padano cheese
  • Salt and pepper

Lightly saute the minced shallot in a pot with oil, until the shallot is softened. Add the pumpkin (cut into slices). Pour the wine over the mixture, and when the wine evaporates, add a little salt. Cover and let cook on a low flame for 10 minutes, stirring now and then. In the meanwhile, bring the broth to a boil. Add the rice to the pumpkin mixture, toasting lightly in the pot. Cook the rice  mixture by adding small amounts of broth in intervals.  When the rice is cooked, stir in the butter and grated cheese and sprinkle with minced parsley. Serve with freshly ground pepper.

SECOND COURSE:

Fish served barese style

Serves 4

  • 2 sea bream (orate) 500 g
  • 1/2 onion
  • 1 garlic clove
  • Parsley
  • 50 g of raisins
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 liter of dry white wine
  • 1/2 cup of extra-virgin olive oil
  • Salt and pepper

Descale and clean the fish,  and then cut into slices. Arrange in a terracotta dish and cover with the wine and raisins (soak the raisins first in warm water to plump up; then squeeze the water out). Add the minced parsley and garlic, the onion (cut into rounds), and finally the bay leaf (torn in half). Flavor with salt and pepper, and let marinate for an hour. Then place the dish on the stove top and cook on a low flame for 10 minutes. Gently remove the fish from the terracotta dish and transfer to a serving dish. Continue cooking the sauce until thickened. Pass the sauce through a sieve, and then pour over the fish. Finish with a drizzle of raw olive oil.

SIDE DISH:

CAULIFLOWER SALAD

Serves 4

  • 1 Cauliflower
  • 1 Dozen black olives
  • 1  Teaspoon of capers
  • 1 Pepper (preserved in vinegar)
  • White wine vinegar
  • 4 Tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil
  • Salt

Trim the cauliflower and divide into florets. Rise and blanch in a little water with a pinch of salt (the cauliflower should remain firm in texture: do not overcook). Drain and dress immediately with the vinegar, oil, olives, capers, and pepper (cut into strips).

DESSERT:

Castagnaccio Chestnut Cake with sweet wine, pine nuts, and raisins

Serves 8

  • 350 g of chestnut flower
  • 80 g of raisins
  • 100 g of pine nuts
  • A few walnuts
  • 1 Cup of sweet wine
  • 4 Tablespoons of extravirgin olive oil
  • 1 Sprig of rosemary
  • Salt

Soak the raisins in the wine, which should be lukewarm. In the meantime, sift the chestnut flour and then add 600 ml of room-temperature water. Add a pinch of salt and the olive oil, then work the dough until it is malleable and not too dense. Add the chopped walnuts and pine nuts, the raisins (drained and pressed to eliminate the excess wine), and finally the rosemary needles.  Spread the mixture onto a baking tray coated in oil (the dough should be no more than 2 cm thick). Brush a bit of oil over the dough, decorate the top with a few rosemary needles, and bake at 180 °C for about 40 minutes, or until little cracks begin to appear on the surface.

Dr. Gina Forrisi

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VITAMINS AND MINERALS FOR A HEALTHY IMMUNE SYSTEM

A well-balanced diet provides an adequate intake of micronutrients, ​vitamins and minerals​, that can ​boost our immune system​. Many studies point to their positive health effects, and specifically highlight the importance of ​vitamin C, D, and Zinc.
Vitamin C stimulates the body to increase its defenses against respiratory diseases. It’s found in citrus fruits (lemons, oranges), red fruits (currants and strawberries), kiwi, pineapple, cherries, watermelon, melon, and papaya. Green leafy vegetables are also rich in vitamin C: broccoli, cabbage, spinach, chard, turnip greens, rocket, lettuce, chicory, and parsley; as well as solanaceae like peppers and raw tomatoes.

Vitamin D also stimulates the immune system and prevents infections and lowers inflammation levels. 80% of it is obtained through sun exposure, while the other 20% is obtained from food. Foods rich in vitamin D are blue fish, such as mackerel, sardines, hering, anchovies, seas bass, tuna, salmon, and red mullet, as well as in eggs and mushrooms. Additionally, it can be found in dried fruits like almonds and walnuts, and in whole grains, beans, and green leafy vegetables.

Zinc plays an important role for the immune system: it promotes function of the thymus, especially against flu viruses, cooling symptoms, and bacterial infections of the respiratory tract. It is found mainly in shellfish and fish, whole grains, legumes (beans, lentils, chickpeas), dried fruit (almonds, walnuts, pine nuts, cashews and peanuts) and oilseeds (sesame, poppy, pumpkin and sunflower), as well as in mushrooms and cocoa.

Iron, Copper and Selenium​ also help us develop an efficient immune system.

Iron introduced in the diet is found in two forms: “heme” and “non-heme”. The first is present in animal products, such as liver, horse and beef red meats; as well as in blue fish (anchovies, sardines, anchovies, sea bass), seafood (clams, mussels and oysters), crustaceans, and egg (yolk). Non-heme iron, on the other hand, is present in plants and must be combined with vitamin C in order to be absorbed. Whole grains, legumes, especially lentils and beans, and green leafy vegetables, like rocket, spinach, parsley, and broccoli are rich in iron. Plums, raisins, apricots, and dates, as well as cashews and pistachios are good sources of iron. To best absorb it, it’s advised to combine these foods with vitamin C, such as lemon juice, tomatoes, peppers, and kiwis. Some substances, however, inhibit the absorption of iron: tea, coffee, chocolate, yogurt, cheese, and foods rich in calcium.
Copper stimulates the immune system since, in addition to promoting thyroid function, maintains an adequate amount of white blood cells, capable of fighting viruses and bacteria. It is found in molluscs, crustaceans, eggs, and meat, as well as in dried fruit (walnuts, almonds and hazelnuts), oilseeds (sunflower and pumpkin), legumes, whole grains, mushrooms, and cocoa.
Selenium​, along with vitamin C, stimulates the immune system’s defenses, and can protect individuals against flu viruses, infections and seasonal diseases. It’s found in blue fish, molluscs, eggs, dairy products and red meat. Additionally, selenium is found in plant sources such as whole grains, legumes, dried fruit, oilseeds, mushrooms and vegetables.

Other vitamins that are important for the immune system are vitamins A, E and B-vitamins.
Vitamin A​, in the form of retinol, along with carotenoids, acts as an antioxidant, boosts the immune system, and fights lung infections. The carotenoids are found in orange-red vegetables and fruits: carrots, squash, pepper tomatoes, apricots, peaches, melon, and medlars. As well as in green leafy vegetables and spices such as paprika. Retinol is found in blue fish, egg, yogurt, cheese and meat.
Vitamin E also helps support the immune system. It is found especially in dried fruit (almonds, hazelnuts and peanuts), oil seeds (sunflower, flax), green leafy vegetables, avocado, blackberries, chestnuts, olives and extra-virgin olive oil.
Finally we must mention the ​B-vitamins which are essential for the proper functioning of the immune system. They are found in fish, crustaceans, eggs, dairy products, meat, green leafy vegetables, whole grains, legumes, dried fruit, oilseeds. Vitamin B12 is found strictly in animal sources, so those who follow purely plant-based diets should consult a nutritionist for valid supplements that ward off their deficiency. Eating fish 2-3 times a week, together with legumes, many seasonal and possibly organic vegetables, whole grains and seasonal fruit, as suggested by the Longevity Diet, helps us give our body all the nutrients that it needs.

SOURCES

  1. https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4409/8/6/603​ -​https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/12/1/236/htm
  2. ​https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/12/1/236/htm
  3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28598721
  4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/9587153
  5. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30200430
  6. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28094101
  7. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2906676/pdf/nihms185109.pdf
  8. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5707683/
  9. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6266234/
  10. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6478888/pdf/fnut-06-00048.pdf
  11. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/list-VitaminsMinerals/
  12. https://www.epicentro.iss.it/vitamine/
  13. https://www.epicentro.iss.it/vitamine/studi
  14. https://www.epicentro.iss.it/sali/
  15. https://www.epicentro.iss.it/sali/oligoelementi

  16. ​LARN – Livelli di assunzione di riferimento per la popolazione italiana: VITAMINE. Assunzione raccomandata per la popolazione (PRI) e assunzione adeguata (​AI​): valori su base giornaliera – Società Italiana di Nutrizione Umana-SINU, 2014

    LARN – Livelli di assunzione di riferimento per la popolazione italiana: MINERALI. Assunzione raccomandata per la popolazione (PRI) e assunzione adeguata (​AI​): valori su base giornaliera – Società Italiana di Nutrizione Umana-SINU, 2014

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Aging and Coronavirus

A study conducted on March 4th by the Istituto Superiore di Sanità (ISS) examined the data on the first Italian patients who died from COVID-19: 73 in Lombardy, 21 in Emilia-Romagna, 7 in Veneto and 3 in Marche. After analyzing the results by age group, it is evident that:

– 42.2% of deaths occurred between 80 and 89 years

– 32.4% between 70 and 79

– 14.1% over 90

– 8.4% between 60 and 69

– 2.8% between 50 and 59

As a result, the average age of those who have died from the virus is 81 years old, about 30 years more than the average age of those who have only been infected: 51 years old, of which 73.3% are men. (see article HAND CORONAVIRUS DATA)

Furthermore, over half of the individuals that died were already suffering from one or more diseases (comorbidities). In particular, the average number is over 3 associated diseases; 3.4 to be exact. In more detail:

– 15.5% of the sample suffered from 0-1 diseases,

– 18.3% from 2 diseases, and

– 67.2% from 3 or more diseases.

In this new analysis, it was evident that the most recurrent pre-existing diseases are hypertension (74.6%), followed by ischemic heart disease (70.4%), and diabetes mellitus (33.8%). As commented by the president of the Istituto Superiore di Sanità (ISS), Silvio Brusaferro: “These are very fragile people, who often live in close contact with others, and whom we must protect as much as possible”.

 

In Italy, hypertension, ischemic heart disease and diabetes mellitus (also referred to as type 2 diabetes) are among the most common conditions. Along with cancer, they are responsible for over a third of diseases and premature deaths. So much so that 36.9% of men and 18.5% of women who suffer from these preventable diseases die before the age of 75. They can be avoided because most of the risk factors associated with these diseases could be reduced by making changes to diet and lifestyle, and maintaining an adequate weight.

Unfortunately, the data of the latest Italian report on overweight and obesity (Italian Obesity Barometer Report 2019 – IBDO Foundation data in collaboration with ISTAT – see article OBESITY IN ITALY), indicate that almost 50% of Italians are overweight, about 25 million people; and one in ten is obese. Additionally, around 4 in 10 children are overweight or obese. As shown by studies in “The Seeds of Longevity are Planted in Childhood” by Professor Valter Longo, children and adults alike consume too much starch and protein. Starches, sugars, and proteins are at the core of accelerated aging, and contribute to the development of various diseases. 

 

Hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and type 2 diabetes are the main risk factors linked to premature death. Along with genetic predisposition, they are also directly connected to bad habits such as poor nutrition, sedentary lifestyle, smoking, and alcohol abuse. However, scientific studies show that age is the main risk factor in developing these diseases. We are observing something analogous in regards to Coronavirus infection. That is, those who are older are more fragile and get sick more easily. Intervening directly on aging over time, therefore, could prevent many diseases. This is more effective than interventions that are currently implemented, which aim at curing diseases at the time of their diagnosis. A process, however, which  cannot be applied quickly or urgently, and which must be understood in the long run.

 

During this COVID-19 outbreak, the ministerial and international measures that have been put out must be strictly followed: wash your hands often; do not touch your mouth, nose, or eyes; in case of sneezing or coughing, cover your nose and mouth with a disposable tissue to be thrown away immediately, or use the crease of the elbow; avoid contact with people who have flu symptoms; avoid handshakes and hugs, keeping a distance of at least 1 meter; avoid crowded places, and preferably do not leave the house; if you have symptoms, do not go to the emergency room but contact your doctor.

 

In any case, a significant and valuable strategy is the one represented by the innovative approach (based on the 5 PILLARS OF HEALTHY LONGEVITY – see article) proposed by the Valter Longo Foundation. This strategy is focused on the mechanisms that help slow down aging and promote healthy longevity. This can be implemented immediately to strengthen the immune system both in the short term (see article VITAMINS AND MINERALS TO SUPPORT THE IMMUNE SYSTEM), especially in this serious health emergency, and in the long term, so as not to find us unprepared for future health challenges.

 

The team of Nutritionists of the Valter Longo Onlus Foundation is always available, especially in this difficult period, to help those who may need it: children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly, as we continue to offer everyone the opportunity for a long and healthy life.

 

For more information: [email protected]

 

SOURCES:

1.https://www.iss.it/web/guest//comunicati-stampa/-/asset_publisher/fjTKmjJgSgdK/content/id/5286166

2. http://www.ibdo.it/

3. La Longevità inizia da bambini. Vallardi editore, 2019

4. NSIS, Nuovo Sistema Informativo Sanitario

5. AIOM, Associazione Italiana Oncologia Medica

6. IDF, International Diabetes Federation, Diabetes Atlas

7. La Dieta della Longevità. Vallardi editore, 2016

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PILLARS OF HEALTHY LONGEVITY

To understand which foods can guarantee a healthier and longer life we refer to the “Pillars of Healthy Longevity,” derived from the studies conducted by Professor Valter Longo. A multidisciplinary approach which includes:

  • basic research, i.e. the study of simple organisms (in experimental models in research laboratories) concerning the molecular aspects of cellular function that is linked to nutrition;
  • epidemiology, i.e. the analysis of the causes of diseases and related risk factors on entire populations (understanding and demonstrating the effects of a specific food or food style on certain diseases and longevity);
  • clinical studies, or rather the effective demonstration of the hypotheses formulated by basic and epidemiological research;
  • the study of centenarians; the investigation of their eating habits, especially those of the famous “Blue Zones”, characterized by greater longevity: Loma Linda in California, the Nicoya peninsula in Costa Rica, Sardinia, Ikaria in Greece and Okinawa in Japan. The observation of these centenarians offers data to support the safety, efficacy, and acceptance of specific foods and diet.
  • the study of centenarians, i.e. studies conducted to analyze their lifestyle and eating habits, in order to understand what behaviors impact longevity.
  • the study of complex systems, or the transposition of human behavior at an engineering level, while taking into consideration lifestyle and nutrition in relation to aging.

The system of “Pillars of Healthy Longevity” allows you to filter thousands of studies on longevity and diseases, and help you lay a deeper and more solid foundation to know what and how much to eat; while minimizing any change in people’s eating habits. If our choices are based on those Pillars, they are hardly ever refuted by new discoveries.

SOURCES

  1. Longo, Valter. The Longevity Diet. New York: Penguin, 2018.
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CORONAVIRUS HANDBOOK

In this historical period, exceptionally marked by a new Coronavirus pandemic, authorities have taken some extraordinary measures aimed at preventing a large endemic wave that would be difficult to manage and strain our country’s health system.

Since age is a risk factor, it is important to apply the measures in their entirety in order to protect everyone.

The Valter Longo Foundation Onlus together with the Create Cures Foundation promotes healthy longevity for everyone and continues to provide assistance. The following are precautionary measures that should be kept in mind during this time:

  • Rule #1: Wash your hands often
  1. Wash your hands with soap and warm water in order to kill germs. If you are unable to use water and soap, hand sanitizer with 60% alcohol can also be used.
  2. It is recommended to wash your hands (3)
    1. After coughing or sneezing
    2. Before, during, and after cooking
    3. Before meals
    4. After using the restroom
    5. When taking care of someone who is ill
    6. When your hands are dirty
    7. After taking care of pets or picking up after them
  • How can you protect yourself and others?
  1. Avoid close contact: kisses, hugs, and handshakes increase exposure to virus (1).
  2. Do not touch your eyes, mouth, or nose, especially without having washed your hands first (1).
  3. Stay 3ft away from others (1)
  4. Sneeze and cough by covering yourself with disposable tissues, to be thrown away immediately (1). If you do not have tissues with you, sneeze into the crease of your elbow (1).
  5. Disinfect commonly used items with alcohol or chlorine-based solutions.
  6. Open windows often to let air circulate.
  7. Avoid sharing bottles and glasses, even among family members (1).
  8. If you think you are infected, wear a surgical mask and contact your doctor immediately (1).
  • Why is it important to open windows?
  1. Transmission may be airborne in the event of prolonged exposure to high viral concentration (4), which mostly concerns hospitals or places where there are infected people.
  2. After analyzing the data about the Coronavirus in China, it appears that it spreads mainly between family members, health workers, and others who are close to infected patients (4).
  • Why should we avoid big gatherings?
  1. This regards the minimum 3 ft distance that should be kept between individuals (5)
  2. The new Coronavirus is a respiratory virus that is primarily contracted through the droplets of a sick person’s breath. This is why it is vital to keep your distance from others and avoid interpersonal contact as much as possible (1).
  3. Violation of the assembly ban is punishable by law (5).
  • Can our pets contract or carry the COVID-19 virus?
  1. To date, it seems that our pets do not contract or spread the virus (6) (1).
  2. However, it is recommended to wash your hands frequently with soap and water or using alcoholic solutions after contact with pets (1).
  • Watch out for the following symptoms

 

  1. The most common symptoms are fever, dry cough, and muscle pain. Other symptoms have also been reported, such as headache, sore throat, abdominal pain, and diarrhea (1) (7).
  2. Symptoms are generally mild and gradual. In severe cases, the infection can cause pneumonia, severe acute respiratory syndrome, kidney failure, and even death (1) (8).
  3. A low percentage of subjects, even when contracting the virus, show no symptoms. For this reason, it is essential to follow preventive measures, even if you feel well (8).
  • What to do in case of symptoms
  1. Stay home and do not go to the emergency room or to your primary care physician. Doing so is dangerous, as other people could be infected (1).
  2. Use emergency numbers only if strictly necessary (1).
  3. Call the family doctor, the medical guard or the toll-free number for your country or region.
  • What can be taken to prevent contagion?
  1. Do not take antivirals or antibiotics as preventive measures, always follow the doctor’s recommendations (1).
  2. Having a well-balanced and complete diet can help strengthen the immune system in the long run, but there are no diets or supplements that can immediately boost the immune system or protect against the virus (7) (9).
  3. Currently, there is no evidence that food is the source or route of transmission of the virus, but common hygiene rules should be respected in food preparation: wash fruits and vegetables, wash hands thoroughly, and do not mix raw and cooked foods (10) (6) (11).
  • Is stocking up on food a responsible choice?

No. The government has ensured that food will always be available.

If you choose to go out for shopping, it is recommended to buy enough food to avoid going out in the days immediately following. However, at the moment, there is no need to grab food, because supermarkets will always be open and stocked. In addition, it is important to avoid too many people in the stores at the same time (5).

When shopping, respect the safety distance of at least 3 ft. from other people and wear gloves as a precaution.

  • Is “smart working” and staying at home really safe?
  1. In any case, hygiene rules must be kept in mind (1).
  2. Frequently disinfect your mobile phone, cover, keyboard and computer mouse (1).
  3. Clean glasses and contact lenses with special detergents.
  4. Try to maintain a healthy and active lifestyle: there are several possibilities online to continue training at home.
  • How long will this outbreak last?
  1. We are dealing with a virus that has never been identified before, therefore it is not possible to make accurate predictions (1).
  2. Based on the Chinese model regarding containment measures, it seems that the situation can (1) within a few weeks.
  3. At the moment, it is not clear whether the spread of the virus decreases with the arrival of summer, as observed during the flu season (1).
  • Are there areas that are safer than others?
  1. There are no territorial differences: the containment measures are extended in general though an entire city or country (1) (12).
  1. In countries like Italy, travel across the entire country is strictly prohibited.
  1. Travel is limited and allowed only for:

– Proven work needs (12)

– Health reasons (12)

– Emergencies (supply, sick relatives, physiological needs of animals) (12)

  1. In Italy, for example, the transgression of such laws is punishable by law as foreseen in the Criminal Code (12):

– Arrest of up to three months or fine of up to € 206 (Art. 650 of the Penal Code)

– Up to 12 years imprisonment for violation of the quarantine (Art. 452 of the Italian Criminal Code)

SOURCES:

  1. https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/coronavirus-resource-center.
  2. https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/hygiene/hand/handwashing.html.
  3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554776/.
  4. https://www.agi.it.
  5. https://www.bfr.bund.de/en/can_the_new_type_of_coronavirus_be_transmitted_via_food_and_toys_-244090.html.
  6. https://www.fondazionevalterlongo.org/13083/?lang=it.
  7. https://www.who.int/docs/default-source/coronaviruse/who-china-joint-mission-on-covid-19-final-report.pdf.
  8. https://www.epicentro.iss.it/coronavirus/faq.
  9. https://www.efsa.europa.eu/it/news/coronavirus-no-evidence-food-source-or-transmission-route.
  10. https://www.ecdc.europa.eu/en/novel-coronavirus-china/questions-answers.
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HYPERTENSION: #1 COMORBIDITY RESULTING IN DEATH FROM CORONAVIRUS

Hypertension is defined as systolic blood pressure (the “maximum”) greater than or equal to 140 mmHg and/ordiastolic pressure (the “minimum”) greater than or equal to 90 mmHg. Just under half (40%) of people over 25 have this problem, which is also an important risk factor for two diseases: coronary heart disease and ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke.

Increased blood pressure is estimated to cause 7.5 million deaths worldwide, or about 12.8% of total deaths. Some symptoms may include morning headaches, nosebleeds, irregular heartbeat, impaired vision, and ringing in the ears. Severe hypertension can cause fatigue, nausea, vomiting, confusion, anxiety, chest pain, and muscle tremors. Unfortunately, however, many people with hypertension are unaware of the problem because symptoms might not be present. Not surprisingly, it is sadly known as a “silent killer” and, for this reason, it is essential that blood pressure is measured regularly.

From the ongoing cases related to COVID-19, it has been found that those who suffer from multiple related diseases (3,4 to be exact), are more susceptible to infection and death. The most represented pre-existing health condition is hypertension (74.6%), followed by ischemic heart disease (70.4%), and diabetes mellitus (33.8%).

Since hypertension is a serious clinical condition that significantly worsens other health issues not related to the Coronavirus, such as with the heart, brain, and/or kidneys, one of the objectives promoted by the World Health Organization for non-communicable diseases is to reduce the prevalence of hypertension by 25% by 2025 compared to 2010.

There are various modifiable risk factors to avoid or reduce hypertension, such as body weight; nutrition therefore plays a fundamental role, not only to maintain an adequate weight, but because poor eating habits and behavior can increase blood pressure. In particular, an excessive consumption of salt, a diet rich in saturated and trans fats (present mainly in foods of animal origin such as meat, sausages and packaged products), as well as a low intake of fruit and vegetables can lead to hypertension. Other risk factors include physical inactivity, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption.

 

Non-modifiable risk factors can be attributed to family history, especially for those who are over 65 and have diabetes or kidney disease.

Practical recommendations

  • do not exceed 5 grams of salt per day;
  • for more flavor, use aromatic herbs such as rosemary, oregano, sage, bay leaf, or with onion and garlic (which also has anti-hypertensive effects);
  • eat seasonal vegetables with every meal, alternating raw and cooked;
  • eat one seasonal fruit a day;
  • practice physical activity (there are also proposals for training at home online);
  • avoid smoking (including second-hand smoke)
  • reduce alcohol consumption (one glass of wine or a small beer per day for women, and double for men);
  • limit the intake of foods rich in saturated fats, such as red meat, sausages and dairy products;
  • eliminate or reduce trans fats (mainly present in packaged products such as crisps and junk food) from your diet.

What to do?

Try to reduce and manage mental stress. It can be useful to do yoga or meditation lessons, choosing from various sources on YouTube. Monitor your blood pressure regularly, even simply with readily available and inexpensive devices.

If your blood pressure remains high after several measurements, we recommend that you contact your doctor and follow the advice given in this article even more closely.

SOURCES:

  1. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/hypertension
  2. https://www.fondazionevalterlongo.org/malattie-cardiovascolari/?lang=it
  3. La Dieta della Longevità, Vallardi, 2016.