Dr. Verdin follows Mediterranean diet, avoids alcohol, processed foods

Dr. Eric Verdin, a 63-year-old researcher and CEO of the Buck Institute for Research on Aging, studies how to extend healthspan, the period of life spent in good health. He believes that lifestyle choices, especially diet, greatly impact longevity. Verdin follows a Mediterranean-style diet, which includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and lean proteins like fish. He avoids drinking alcohol and ultra-processed foods, which he believes harm health. Instead, he emphasizes eating real foods that are recognizable and not overly processed. He tracks his health using smart devices and regular blood tests. Despite being 68 chronologically, his biological age appears to be between 48 and 53, according to various health markers. He plans to adjust his eating schedule by having dinner earlier to enhance his fasting routine. Verdin limits sugary drinks, particularly fruit juices, as they often lack fiber and can lead to spikes in blood sugar. He believes it is better to eat whole fruits instead. He also stopped drinking alcohol after realizing that avoiding it improved his energy and sleep. Researchers continue to study the effects of diet and lifestyle on health, and Verdin's practices reflect current findings in this field.