How To Prevent & REVERSE Disease With THESE FOODS To Live Longer | Dr. William Li

Dr. Lee and William Li delve into how the gut microbiome is connected to brain function, suggesting a significant relationship between gut health and neurodegenerative diseases.

Research Suggests the Gut Microbiome Influences Brain Health and Disorders Like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's

Experts Investigate Links Between Gut Bacteria Imbalance and Neurodegenerative Diseases

William Li emphasizes the importance of gut health in overall well-being, specifically its connection to the brain. Li discusses the gut-brain axis, stating that issues with gut bacteria may be a common factor in diseases such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's. He suggests this could be an overlooked aspect crucial for understanding these conditions. Li also notes that scientific advancements now allow for more in-depth exploration of the connection between the gut and brain health.

Gut Bacteria Tied To Better Cognitive Function In Parkinson's

Li mentions research on a probiotic called lactobacillus plantarum (specifically the strain PS128) that has shown promise in slowing down the symptoms of Parkinson's disease, indicating its potential impact on the brain.

Research Links Gut Health To Mental Wellness: Microbiome Impacts Mood and Brain Function

Gut-brain Axis: A Complex, Bidirectional Pathway Where Gut Signals Impact the Brain and Vice Versa, Through Mechanisms Like Neurotransmitter and Immune Regulation

Gut bacteria, Li points out, can communicate with our immune system and brain, impacting healing mechanisms and overall health. He explains that the bacteria Lactobacillus reuteri has anti-inflammatory properties and can improve the immune system while affecting the brain to release [restricted term], a hormone associated with happiness and bonding.

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Centenarian and "Super-Ager" Studies Identify Four Key Gut Bacteria

Centenarians, people who live to or beyond 100 years old, and "super-agers" have caught the attention of scientists studying the gut microbiome. William Li mentions a research study from Italy observing super-agers—who live to 114-115 years old—to identify whether specific bacteria were more prevalent in their gut microbiome compared to those who lived significantly shorter lives. The studies found that there are four standout bacteria—Odoribacter, Oscillobacter, Cristinella, and Acromantia—that are present in larger amounts in the microbiomes of centenarians.

Key Bacteria in Metabolism, Immunity, and Longevity

These key bacteria are not only more abundant in long-livers but are also instrumental in critical body functions. Acromantia, which has gained recognition for its link to successful cancer treatment, particularly under immunotherapy, plays a pivotal role in effective immune system communication. Odoribacter, Oscillobacter, Cristinella, and Acromantia have been found to enhance metabolism, reduce inflammation, strengthen immunity, aid in cholesterol regulation, and support brain health.

Foods That Advise Longevity-Associated Bacteria

Foods such as pomegranates, chili peppers, and black raspberries are beneficial for nurturing desirable gut bacteria, especially Acromantia. Similarly, resistant starches, present in naturally occurring foods like green bananas and plantains, and created through processes like roasting and refrigerating potatoes, can promote the growth of bacteria common in ultra-agers.

Diverse Gut Microbiome: Diet and Lifestyle Support Lifespan and Healthspan

A diversified gut microbiome achieved through particular diet and lifestyle choices seems to be central to elongating both lifespan and healthspan.

Strategies For Gut Health

Implementing simple diet and lifestyle alterations can nurture benefi ...

William Li and Lewis Howes engage in a discussion about the connection between diet, gut health, and longevity, emphasizing the benefits of whole, minimally processed foods and the hazards of overconsumption of ultra-processed foods.

Whole, Minimally Processed Foods Support Gut Microbiome

Li stresses the importance of choosing whole, plant-based foods for maintaining optimal health. He recommends buying whole and fresh foods, cooking them yourself, and eating a plant-based diet to assure the least amount of processing. This attention to diet quality, Li suggests, is analogous to using good fuel for better performance in a vehicle.

Lewis Howes echoes this sentiment, mentioning that he feels satisfied when eating whole foods, which implies a positive effect on gut health and mental cognition. The benefits of minimally processed foods are also hinted at through the reference to sourdough bread and Parmesan Reggiano cheese, which contain lactobacillus reuteri and offer health benefits if not overconsumed.

Fiber and Polyphenols in Plants Nourish Gut Bacteria

Li highlights that when you consume whole foods rich in dietary fiber and polyphenols, the body immediately extracts these compounds, which have a range of health benefits. Dietary fiber, in particular, is crucial as it feeds the gut microbiome and is associated with a reduced risk of diseases like dementia, diabetes, and cancer. In fact, eating one Kiwi, for example, starts to proliferate healthy gut bacteria within the first day.

Moderation Is Key With Less Healthy Foods as Occasional Indulgence Won't Harm Long-Term, but Habitual Overconsumption Can Affect Gut Health and Longevity

Li advises against overeating even healthy foods and emphasizes the importance of moderation. Ultra-processed foods, on the other hand, do not prompt the same satiety signals as whole foods, potentially leading to overconsumption and various health issues. These foods may contain microplastics due to their processing, which can further impact health negatively, although the full effects are not yet known.

Mindful Eating and Portion Control Prevent Overeating and Gut Impacts

Howes shares that he never feels full when consuming ultra-processed ...