Would You Choose to Eat Healthy and Live to 80, or Eat Whatever and Live to 70?

If the calculation were solely based on numbers, I would undoubtedly choose to eat however I want and live to 70. However, life is rarely that straightforward. The actual benefit of living to 80 or 70 is not just about the final age score—it's also about the quality of life.

A Personal Journey: 72 vs. 76

Currently, I am 72 years old. Three times a week, I engage in weight training at home. I no longer run, but I walk 70,000 steps every week. I enjoy various forms of alcohol occasionally and do not follow a strict diet except for avoiding sugary foods and having ice cream on rare occasions.

My experience of being 73 on a Standard American Diet (SAD) was truly disheartening. I felt 99, and I was ready to die. The prospect of a slow decline due to poor health was terrifying. I feared losing my independence and becoming a burden to my loved ones. I remember thinking that if I could only die suddenly, I might choose to continue with my unhealthy lifestyle.

However, it was clear that my health was deteriorating, and the decline was going to be both slow and painful. Now, at 76, I am in the best shape of my life. I feel energetic, capable, and strong. Since August 26, 2016, I have been following a high-protein version of the ketogenic diet, and I feel better than I have in decades.

Attaining a healthy diet after 73 was challenging, but the effort has been worth it. Changing my eating habits has made a significant difference in my life.

Quality of Life in the Final Decades

How has my quality of life improved in the last 10 years? I would say that the significant changes in my diet have had a profound impact. Although I was already living a moderate lifestyle, the one thing I might have to give up is insufficient sleep (about 10 months a year).

It's important to note that while a healthy diet can extend your lifespan, it doesn't guarantee a high quality of life. There are many factors that can affect your health and well-being in old age, such as:

Lung cancer from second-hand smoke or exposure to radon gas The possibility of a severe car accident that leaves you paralyzed or in chronic pain Mental health issues such as depression or anxiety The risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's

So, the decision to embrace a healthy diet and aim for longevity goes beyond just the numbers. It's about ensuring that your remaining years are filled with vitality and joy.

A Special Diet for 60 or 50?

Is there a diet that can take you down to 60 or 50 years instead of 80? The answer lies in the balance between eating a healthy diet and enjoying a wide variety of foods. It's not just about cutting out your favorite foods, but rather making conscious choices that support your health.

A balanced and nutritious diet often includes lean proteins, healthy fats, and a wide array of colorful vegetables and fruits. While it might be challenging to maintain such a diet, the benefits of doing so are substantial.

Many people find that a moderate approach that includes some of their favorite foods in moderation is both feasible and effective. The key is to prioritize your overall health and well-being over fleeting indulgences that can harm your body in the long run.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the choice between eating healthy and living to 80, or eating whatever you want and living to 70 is a personal one. It depends on your values, health goals, and lifestyle. While a healthy diet is undoubtedly beneficial, it's also important to enjoy life and make adjustments that are sustainable in the long term.

Focusing on a balanced diet can dramatically improve your quality of life, no matter how old you are. It's never too late to make positive changes, and the benefits can be profound.