Neurosurgeon and Triathlete, 83, Shares Diet Principles for a Long and Healthy Life
Joseph Maroon, an 83-year-old practicing neurosurgeon and avid triathlete, has defied the odds by maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle well into his golden years. Maroon credits his remarkable health and longevity to four key diet principles that he follows religiously. In this article, we delve into Maroon’s journey of transformation, his diet principles, and the science behind his approach.
A Journey of Transformation
At the age of 40, Maroon found himself out of shape, living on fast food, and lacking any exercise routine. Climbing a flight of stairs became a daunting task for him. However, a turning point came when a friend suggested that he try running to combat his depression. This simple suggestion set Maroon on a path of gradual lifestyle changes that would transform his physical and mental well-being.
By the age of 53, Maroon had signed up for his first Ironman Triathlon, a grueling endurance race that includes swimming, cycling, and running. Since then, he has completed eight Ironman Triathlons in total. Last year, Maroon even secured second place in his age category for the 2022 National Senior Games triathlon. His remarkable achievements are a testament to the power of perseverance and the impact that lifestyle changes can have on one’s overall health.
The Mediterranean-Style Diet
One of the key diet principles that Maroon swears by is following a Mediterranean-style diet. This eating plan has been consistently ranked as the best way to eat by US News & World Report for seven consecutive years. Rather than being a restrictive diet, the Mediterranean-style diet focuses on making healthy choices and centers around whole foods.
The diet primarily consists of plant-based foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, legumes, and healthy fats like olive oil. It also includes occasional consumption of fatty fish and red meat. Numerous studies have linked the Mediterranean-style diet to a wide range of health benefits, including a reduced risk of heart disease, cancer, and Alzheimer’s disease.
Avoiding Ultra-Processed Foods
Maroon emphasizes the importance of avoiding ultra-processed foods (UPFs). These foods undergo complex processing techniques and often contain additives like salts, sugars, and saturated fats. Identifying UPFs is relatively easy; if a food product doesn’t resemble its ingredients, such as protein bars or hot dogs, it is likely ultra-processed.
Research has shown that consuming UPFs is associated with an increased risk of various illnesses, including cancer, dementia, and cardiovascular disease. By opting for whole, unprocessed foods instead, individuals can significantly improve their overall health and well-being.
Steering Clear of Trans Fatty Acids
Trans fats are another dietary component that Maroon advises against. These fats can raise levels of “bad” LDL cholesterol while lowering levels of “good” HDL cholesterol, thereby increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke. Trans fats are artificially produced by hydrogenating vegetable oil and were commonly found in packaged UPFs until 2015.
Although the FDA declared trans fats unsafe to eat in 2015, some foods may still contain small amounts (under 0.5 grams) legally. It is crucial to read ingredient lists carefully and look out for terms like “partially hydrogenated” oil in products such as margarine, premade pie crusts, non-dairy coffee creamers, and packaged baked goods.
Reducing Sugar Intake
Maroon firmly believes that a healthy diet involves cutting back on sugar consumption. Research conducted by Heidi Tissenbaum, a professor at the University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, supports this notion. Tissenbaum’s study on roundworms, which are used to model human health span, revealed that removing added sugar from their diet was linked to increased longevity.
Metabolizing sugar produces byproducts associated with a higher risk of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, chronic kidney disease, and Alzheimer’s disease. Furthermore, maintaining stable blood sugar levels is crucial for preventing the wearing out of the pancreas’ regulatory mechanism, which can lead to type 2 diabetes. By avoiding UPFs, which are often high in added sugar, individuals can help regulate their blood sugar levels and promote overall health.
Conclusion
Joseph Maroon’s remarkable journey from an out-of-shape 40-year-old to an 83-year-old neurosurgeon and triathlete serves as an inspiration to us all. Through his dedication to following a Mediterranean-style diet, avoiding ultra-processed foods and trans fats, and reducing sugar intake, Maroon has achieved optimal health and longevity.
His story highlights the transformative power of lifestyle changes and the importance of making conscious choices when it comes to our diets. By adopting Maroon’s diet principles, individuals can take significant steps towards improving their overall well-being and enjoying a long and healthy life.
