In this episode of the Suburban Burnout Podcast, Megan and Laura explore the concept of longevity in relation to experiencing the "Sandwich Years". This phase of life is a complex juggling act, where individuals not only raise their own children but also find themselves caring for and supporting their aging parents.
The inspiration for this discussion comes from Dr. Peter Attia's thought-provoking book, Outlive. Dr. Attia, a former cancer surgeon who has transitioned into the realm of longevity, challenges the current practice of medicine, which often focuses on treating illnesses rather than promoting proactive health. He emphasizes that although modern medicine has succeeded in extending human lifespans, it falls short in helping us live healthier for longer, a concept he aptly calls "healthspan." In Outlive, Dr. Attia takes a deep dive into each of the four leading causes of death: heart disease, cancer, metabolic dysfunction like diabetes, and neurological disorders. To uncover the secrets of centenarians who age gracefully, researchers highlight the keys to maintaining health well into old age are primarily rooted in physical fitness and movement, a diet centered around whole foods, restful sleep, and nurturing good mental health through a sense of community and purpose-driven life.
The subject of longevity becomes even more poignant as we witness our aging parents slowing down and facing various health challenges. The "Sandwich Years" come with not only a mental and emotional toll but a significant physical one as well. Maintaining our own physical health becomes paramount because it directly impacts our ability to care for ourselves, our children, and our parents. So, it's time for us to pay attention, make changes in our lives, and strive for optimal health.
This leads us to the question: "How can we practically apply these principles to maximize our own longevity?"
While older generations may advise us to slow down, Dr. Attia's guidance stresses the importance of staying active. Sir Isaac Newton's principle, "A body in motion stays in motion, and a body at rest, stays at rest," stands the test of time. Maintaining a base level of physical fitness ensures that we can perform essential daily activities like standing, walking, lifting, and getting up from the floor as we age. Strong core muscles protect our bones and enhance our balance. Setting goals for our future and determining the type of physical fitness needed today becomes a vital step in our quest for longevity.
Diet is another major consideration. Prioritizing whole foods over processed ones forms the cornerstone of a healthy diet. The advice to "eat the rainbow" encourages us to consume foods rich in color to maximize the nutrients we receive. Incorporating protein and healthy fats complements a predominantly plant-based diet. Remember that tailoring your diet to your specific needs is crucial, as what works for some may not work for all.
Some of Megan and Laura's favorite health hacks include:
Milk thistle, activated charcoal and Liquid IV (sugar-free) for hydration and liver wellness
Red light therapy for inflammation
Saunas or hot yoga for detoxification
Hot lemon water first thing in the morning for a metabolism boost
The Goop cleanse- a week of clean recipes posted in January to reset after the holidays
Swapping your morning cup of joe for matcha- jazz it up with frothed oak milk
Chiropractic care
Drinking clean-crafted wine
At the end of the day, it's essential to prioritize your health, even if feels selfish to do so. Balancing life's responsibilities can be a struggle, but if we don't invest in our health now, we may not be around long enough to enjoy the fruits of our labor. For more insights on this topic, tune into this episode of the Suburban Burnout Podcast. Your future self will thank you.
Book recommendation links:
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