Dr. Greger's Daily Dozen: Foods that Can Save Your Life

It makes sense that the healthier you eat, the longer you'll live. But, do you know just how big of an impact your diet has on longevity?

Michael Greger, author of the new book, How Not to Die, and founder of the non-profit website, NutritionFacts.org, joins Dr. Susanne to share which foods he puts in his "daily dozen," as well as why exercise, along with proper nutrition, is the key to living a long, healthy, happy life.

At the top of Dr. Greger's list is dark green leafy vegetables, which have a higher nutrient density than any other food. These veggies add years to your life and life to your years. 

Legume intake may be the most important dietary predictor of survival in older people from around the globe, with an eight percent reduction in risk of premature death for every one-ounce increase in daily intake. Sadly 96% of Americans don’t even reach the minimum recommended intake of three servings a week. Dr. Greger is more inclined to agree with the American Institute for Cancer Research’s suggestion of three servings a day; beans, split peas, chickpeas or lentils with every meal.

Don't forget the exercise factor. The science to date shows that 90 minutes a day is the optimal amount of time for an individual to work out. Sedentary behavior, especially for more than six hours a day, is one of the biggest factors of early death. 

What four foods should you always buy and four foods you should never buy when you visit the grocery store?

Dr. Greger is a big fan of convenience, so canned beans, fresh fruit, and bags of frozen greens and frozen berries are always on his shopping list. The worst things you can eat are trans fats and processed meats, so he advises to stay away from processed foods that contain hydrogenated oils like many margarines or canned frosting, as well as lunch meats and hot dogs.

Listen in as Dr. Greger explains more about why nutrition and exercise are the key factors for health and longevity, as well as specific examples of the most important foods you should be eating.