Coffee, cocoa and raw honey may increase longevity, Florida doctor says

The secret to a longer, healthier life might start at the breakfast table.

Dr. Mitch Ghen, a Boca Raton, Fla.-based physician who has practiced functional medicine for more than 45 years, told Fox News Digital that he regularly consumes three foods and beverages to support healthy aging: coffee, cocoa and raw honey.

“I think these foods make a huge difference,” Ghen said, adding that he incorporates them into his daily routine.

LONGEVITY DOCTOR REVEALS WHAT MATTERS MOST TO AGING WELL, BEYOND COST BIOHACKS

Ghen said he starts his mornings with coffee blended with 100% cocoa, while consuming raw, unfiltered honey during the day.

Below are his three choices and why he chose them.

1. Coffee

Ghen places coffee at the top of his longevity list, pointing to research that has linked coffee consumption with potential health benefits.

Coffee is one of the best foods and drinks for aging well, a longevity doctor (not pictured) told Fox News Digital. (iStock)

“Studies suggest that the right balance between coffee and longevity is between three and four cups per day,” he said.

Ghen said he believes coffee may provide cardiovascular and immune benefits, in addition to the usual improvement in alertness.

COFFEE LOVERS CAN TAKE HEART: UP TO 5 CUPS A DAY APPEARS SAFE FOR MOST ADULTS, EXPERTS SAY

He personally opts for organic coffee and drinks it as part of his morning routine.

2. Cocoa

Ghen gives his morning coffee an extra boost by adding 100% polyphenol-rich cocoa.

Polyphenols are natural plant compounds with antioxidant properties.

Cacao is rich in polyphenols and a longtime Florida doctor adds it to his coffee. (iStock)

Ghen said he generally recommends about a teaspoon to a tablespoon of cocoa, depending on its polyphenol content.

“I think (the) combination tends to layer and gives that person not only a good start in the morning, but definitely what I would call a good amount of antioxidants and polyphenols,” he said.

YOUR DAILY COFFEE HABIT MAY AFFECT YOUR BRAIN AND MOOD IN UNEXPECTED WAYS, STUDY SAY

Ghen also pointed to research suggesting that cocoa may have beneficial effects on the cardiovascular system.

3. Raw honey

The third food on Ghen’s list is raw, unfiltered, organic honey.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE LIFESTYLE NEWS

Ghen said honey may benefit the gut microbiome, an area that is increasingly being researched in overall health and aging.

Raw honey may help the gut microbiome, a Florida doctor said. (iStock)

“I like honey because I think it’s a product that contributes to longevity,” he said.

As for the amount, Ghen recommends moderation.

CLICK HERE TO SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER

“I think a tablespoon a day seems like a reasonable amount without causing too many sugar spikes,” he said.

Although Ghen incorporates all three foods into his own routine, he emphasized that healthy aging isn’t just about adding individual “superfoods” to the diet.

One doctor recommends a tablespoon of honey per day, while noting that healthy aging isn’t just about adding specific “superfoods” to your diet. (iStock)

He said people should focus on sustainable eating habits and generally cited the Mediterranean diet as a model.

For those who haven’t always eaten well, it’s never too late to make changes, Ghen said.

TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ

“The question everyone should be asking is, in all seriousness, is it about longevity, meaning numbers, or is it quality?” he said.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

“Quantity follows quality, so that’s key.”