The idea of the fountain of youth, a magical spring that restores youth to anyone who drinks from it, can be traced back to Greek historians in the 5th century BC. Since then, the legend has appeared repeatedly throughout history, with countless cross-cultural references.
Why has this story stood the test of time and is still being referenced in current pop culture, such as in movies like “Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides” and Disney’s animated film “Kronk’s New Groove”?
It’s the same reason why the wellness industry is valued at 4.4 trillion pounds today: we all want to be young and healthy, and we are constantly looking for ways to better ourselves.
However, as the wellness industry continues to churn out new products, each claiming miraculous abilities to solve aging, weight loss, mental well-being, beauty issues, and anything else that could possibly be wrong with our bodies, we seem to be getting farther away from the goal.
Emily Prpa, an award-winning nutritionist with a PhD in Nutritional Sciences, believes that the answers don’t lie in any new trend or product but in four non-negotiables—the keys to gut and overall health.
1 – Diet
Eating healthy is essential, yet it is often neglected, especially in today’s busy world. After a long day, it can be challenging to prioritise a nutritious meal, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are some tips to simplify healthy eating:
- Variety of fruits and vegetables
- Whole grains
- Legumes
- Lentils
- Nuts & seeds
Emily recommends starting with small, simple swaps to increase dietary variety and promote a healthy gut microbiome.
For instance, instead of buying just red peppers, opt for a variety pack that includes green, yellow, and red peppers. Similarly, rather than purchasing only almonds, select a mixed nuts package.
These small changes can significantly enhance the diversity of nutrients and microbes in your diet because remember: it’s not about cutting things out, it’s about including more.
2 – Exercise
This doesn’t mean you have to start training for a marathon or lift weights every day. Engaging in low-impact exercises such as yoga and Pilates can be just as beneficial.
Focus on how your body and mind feel, rather than on how you look.
3 – Prioritise Sleep
Sleep is often overlooked when considering health, especially gut health, but it is absolutely crucial. Here are some sleep hygiene tips to improve your sleep quality:
- Turn off your phone a couple of hours before bed to avoid blue light, which can make it harder to fall asleep.
- Avoid eating heavy meals at least two hours before bed.
- Be mindful of how alcohol can disrupt your sleep.
- Sleep in a cool bedroom
- Maintain a regular sleep schedule by going to bed at the same time each night.
4 – Hydration
Drinking lots of water is essential for overall health and plays a vital role in maintaining gut health. Staying well-hydrated helps ensure that your digestive system functions smoothly, preventing issues such as constipation, especially when increasing fibre intake.
These are neither crazy nor difficult steps to take, but perhaps that’s the issue. People often seek a quick fix or an exciting new idea, hoping for an instant transformation. Unfortunately, such a solution doesn’t exist. However, consistently practicing these simple habits over time will benefit you far more than any new wellness trend.
Emily’s approach to health is holistic. She advocates for an integrated healthcare system that includes collaboration among various professionals, such as psychologists, nutritionists, and doctors. Her work with Yakult and her efforts to bridge the gap between scientific research and everyday practice underscore her commitment to realistic and sustainable health practices.
The pursuit of health and longevity doesn’t require magical solutions or the latest wellness trends, it’s about embracing basic, evidence-based habits that nurture both body and mind.
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It was a privilege to have Emily on the latest episode of Greatest Minds. To listen to the full episode, see here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1bD8rOVf5qxc1mnKSvmxvF?si=SfMw96CTSP2imT-TpSVdqQ
To listen to other Greatest Minds episode, see here: https://thepodcastguys.co.uk/greatest-minds/
