Do you love salo? Here are its benefits for health
Does salo actually extend life? The answer might surprise you (photo: freepik)
Salo is one of the most beloved foods in Ukraine, but does it help you live longer? Famous Ukrainian epigeneticist Dmytro Krasnienkov explained in an interview with RBC-Ukraine whether salo can be relied on as a longevity "superfood."
Can salo be eaten for longevity? Epigeneticist’s answer
According to the scientist, salo is not a product that promotes rejuvenation, as some believe.
Although it contains beneficial fatty acids, an excess of salo in the diet can lead to negative effects due to its high calorie content, saturated fats, and cholesterol.
Salo can be eaten in moderation—a small piece will provide energy and some fatty acids. But too much is harmful because of the calories, saturated fats, and cholesterol, Krasnienkov emphasized.
He added that there are no direct studies on the effect of salo on the biological clock, but its composition suggests that excessive consumption may accelerate aging rather than slow it down.
The scientist recommends focusing on other foods that genuinely support longevity: vegetables, fruits, fermented dairy products, fish, and healthy sources of protein.
How to eat for longevity
As Krasnienkov notes, there are other Ukrainian "superfoods" with strong health potential. These include beets, buckwheat, sauerkraut, and kefir.
They help regulate metabolism, support the immune system, and may help preserve the body's youth.
One of the critical issues in the Ukrainian diet, according to Krasnienkov, is protein deficiency. Inadequate protein intake with age can lead to muscle loss, slowed metabolism, and even accelerated aging.
The expert emphasizes that it is important not only to consume enough protein but also to choose the right sources.
Excessive consumption of red meat is associated with the acceleration of the biological clock. Healthier protein sources include chicken, fish, legumes, eggs, and fermented dairy products, Krasnienkov stresses.
Another tip: include as many colorful vegetables and fruits on your plate as possible. Each bright color provides different antioxidants and beneficial compounds that support health.
However, fruits—especially very sweet ones—should be eaten in moderation. The ideal time to consume them is before physical activity, so the sugar from the fruit is used for energy instead of building up in the bloodstream.
Krasnienkov also recommends paying special attention to Omega-3 fatty acids—just about 1 gram per day can positively affect the biological clock and help slow down aging processes.
Earlier, we shared the diet that reduces the risk of stroke and heart attack by 14%.
This material is for informational purposes only and should not be used for medical diagnosis or self-treatment. Our goal is to provide readers with accurate information about symptoms, causes, and methods of detecting diseases. RBС-Ukraine is not responsible for any diagnoses that readers may make based on materials from the resource. We do not recommend self-treatment and advise consulting a doctor in case of any health concerns.
