Book Review "The Longevity Diet" by Valter Longo PhD
- Alastair Hunt
- Aug 13
- 2 min read
Updated: Aug 17
What? A book focused on the science of longevity, providing practical guidance on diet and lifestyle choices that promote a longer, healthier life.
What? A book that blends decades of ageing research with practical nutrition advice, The Longevity Diet outlines Valter Longo’s evidence-based approach to extending healthspan. Central to the plan are plant-predominant eating, strategic fasting periods and his well-known Fasting Mimicking Diet (FMD), designed to promote autophagy, cellular repair and reduce disease risk.
Who? Dr Valter Longo is a biochemist and longevity researcher, best known for his work on fasting, nutrient-sensing pathways, and healthy ageing. Director of both the USC Longevity Institute and the IFOM Programme on Longevity and Cancer in Milan, Longo has spent over 30 years studying how diet can influence ageing at the cellular and genetic level.
Why? The Longevity Diet distils Longo’s research into a clear lifestyle plan: daily meals rich in vegetables, legumes, whole grains, nuts and healthy fats; reduced protein intake from animal sources and periodic cycles of the FMD.
So… If you want a blueprint that bridges cutting-edge ageing science with everyday food choices (including suggestions for building one's own longevity diet and the FMD itself), this book offers a practical guide. It’s especially useful for those curious about fasting protocols but cautious of extreme or unsafe approaches.
Enjoy this recent interview with Longo...
Dr Longo keeps the science accessible without oversimplifying, grounding his recommendations in peer-reviewed studies while explaining the reasoning in plain language. His emphasis on sustainable dietary patterns over fads makes this a valuable resource for anyone seeking long-term vitality.
Stay Healthy,
Alastair
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Resources: Health Literacy
Learn more about Valter Longo PhD.
Enjoy our other longevity reading recommendations.
What is health literacy? CDC website
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