Neuroscientist Dr David Cox has revealed the one 'superfood' he consumes every day to slow down the ageing process. Speaking on ITV's Tonight programme, the author of The Age Code explained how dietary choices can significantly impact longevity and quality of life.
The Power of Berries
Dr Cox emphasized that berries, particularly blueberries and strawberries, are a crucial part of his daily diet. He stated, 'Berries contain natural chemicals called salicylates, which help disable zombie cells and make it easier for your immune system to eliminate them. They are real superfoods.'
Understanding Zombie Cells
Zombie cells are damaged cells that accumulate with age and refuse to die off. Dr Cox explained, 'As you age, your body becomes more full of these damaged cells. The zombies take over, increasing your short-term risk of disease and death.' Berries help combat this process.
Dietary Changes at Any Age
Dr Cox stressed that it is never too late to make impactful dietary changes. 'Subtle tweaks to diet, whether you're 20 or 90, can still make a big difference and give you many more years of healthy life,' he said. He noted that while more people are living to 100, healthy life expectancy has fallen to 61 for both men and women.
Common Dietary Mistakes
Dr Cox also highlighted common errors that accelerate ageing, including overeating and insufficient fibre intake. He warned, 'Many of us are eating too much from morning to night, putting metabolic stress on our bodies. We consume too much processed food and not enough whole foods like fruits and vegetables.' This fibre deficit is linked to rising cancer rates in people under 50.
Dr Cox's book, The Age Code: The New Science of Food and How It Can Save Us, explores how diet affects ageing at a cellular level. His advice underscores the importance of incorporating berries and other whole foods into daily nutrition for healthier ageing.
