The Secrets of a Long and Healthy Life: Insights from Professor Silvio Garattini
Table of Contents
Less Medication, More Prevention
In his book, “Prevention is Revolution,” Garattini critiques the modern tendency towards over-medication, arguing that it prioritizes treating diseases over preventing them. “It is not logical to spend human and economic resources to treat diseases that are ultimately avoidable,” he writes. Over half of chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes, heart, lung and kidney failure, strokes, and heart attacks can be prevented, as can more than 50% of cancers. Reducing medication reliance not only benefits individual health but also alleviates the burden on the healthcare system.Lifestyle Choices for a Healthier tomorrow
Garattini underscores the crucial role of lifestyle modifications for achieving longevity. “We all say it and repeat it: yes, without health there is no full life, then instead we behave as if health did not require attention and rational behaviour,” he observes. He cites smoking as a prime example, noting that 24% of Italian adults between 18 and 69 smoke, with the percentage rising to 30% for those under 18. The health risks of smoking are undeniable, ranging from premature aging and breathing difficulties to serious heart conditions and various cancers. Garattini also warns against excessive alcohol consumption, highlighting that the World Health Organization identifies it as the cause of 200 health problems. He advocates for physical activity, sufficient sleep (at least 7 hours), and maintaining strong social connections. “At Mario negri, we conducted a study on 2,000 80-year-olds, followed for 15 years. Those who maintained few social relationships had a greater risk of cognitive problems.” He emphasizes the importance of continuing these activities even after retirement.The Power of a Balanced Diet
Renowned for his frugal eating habits, Garattini often skips lunch and opts for lighter breakfast and dinner meals. While he doesn’t recommend everyone emulate his strict regimen, he advocates for moderation and a balanced approach.He suggests embracing a Mediterranean-style diet rich in vegetables, complex carbohydrates, and fish, while limiting fat and meat. The Mediterranean diet is widely praised for its ability to reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer, all of which Garattini emphasizes are preventable.Finding Purpose and Embracing Enthusiasm
“It is indeed essential to have a purpose in your life and not to give it up,” Garattini advises. He believes in finding balance and being mindful of the preciousness of each day. “We need to be able to achieve a balance with time,and the balance results in the fact of knowing that every day one can end one’s life and therefore being aware of the fact that tomorrow morning I may no longer be there,” he explains. He encourages individuals to continue pursuing their passions with enthusiasm, recognizing that time is a finite resource. Garattini’s wisdom reminds us that while there are no guarantees in life, prioritizing healthy habits, cultivating a strong sense of purpose, and approaching each day with enthusiasm can significantly increase our chances of living long, fulfilling lives. His example serves as inspiration for us all.## Teh Secrets of a Long adn Healthy Life: An Interview with Professor Silvio Garattini
**Archyde:** Welcome Professor Garattini. At 95 years young, you are a living testament to the power of a healthy lifestyle.Congratulations on your recent prestigious awards – the Italiani Controvento award and the Omaggio a una grande vita award.
**Professor Garattini:** Thank you. I am truly honored to receive such recognition, especially at this stage of my life.
**Archyde:** You attribute your longevity to four key pillars: minimizing medication use, frugal eating habits, physical activity, and nurturing the spirit. Can you elaborate on each of these?
**Professor Garattini:** Certainly. Firstly, I believe we are far too quick to reach for medication. We should prioritize preventing illness over treating it. This means adopting a healthy lifestyle.
Doctors should prescribe healthy habits alongside medication. Walk at least three kilometers a day, lose weight if needed.We should judge doctors based on the health outcomes of thier patients: how many have stopped smoking, how many are no longer obese. [[1](https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(99)90394-X/fulltext)]This is true preventative medicine.
Secondly, I advocate for a frugal diet. Eat simply, with fresh, whole foods.
Thirdly, staying physically active is crucial.
nurturing the spirit, finding meaning and purpose in life, is essential for overall well-being.
**Archyde:** In your book, “Prevention is Revolution,” you criticize the modern tendency towards over-medication. Why do you feel this is such a pressing issue?
**Professor Garattini:** We are living in a culture of “pharmacocentricity,” where the solution to every ailment is a pill. This is a risky and unsustainable approach. It is not logical to spend valuable resources treating diseases that can often be prevented through lifestyle changes. Over half of chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes, heart disease, strokes, and even many cancers could be prevented through simple lifestyle changes.
Reducing our reliance on medication benefits both individuals and the healthcare system.
**Archyde:** What advice would you give to our readers who aspire to live long and healthy lives?
**Professor Garattini:** Simple: Eat well, move your body, find purpose in life, and remember, less medication is often more. prevention is truly revolution.
**Archyde:** Thank you so much for sharing your wisdom with us, Professor Garattini.
**Professor Garattini:** it was my pleasure.
