At the Tenuta di Torciano a scientific conference explores Italian cuisine, longevity and the Mediterranean diet, among Tuscan excellences, health and sustainability.
A few days after the expected designation of Italian cuisine as a UNESCO intangible heritage, with the consequent global implications, a significant scientific conference on food and wine excellence was held at the Torciano Estate, in Tuscany. Here, scientists, academics, researchers and journalists discussed not only the organoleptic value of Tuscan products, but also their impact on human health. Human beings have always sought well-being and longevity; it therefore seems appropriate to reconsider our lifestyle, from the choice of foods we bring to the table to moments dedicated to ourselves, such as a pleasant walk in nature, to live better and, perhaps, longer.
On November 27th, at the Tenuta di Torciano, prominent personalities such as Dr. Lorenzo Baragatti, Director of the Siena District Health Society, and Dr. Stefano Ciatti, founder of Vino e Salute, participated. Among the other speakers were Prof. Fulvio Ursini, Professor Emeritus of Biological Chemistry at the University of Padua, Prof. Annalisa Santucci, Professor of Biochemistry at the University of Siena, Dr. Clizia Marri, Dietitian at the Siena University Hospital, Dr. Luca Sardella, well-known television presenter and agronomy expert, Dr. Gianni Massetani, writer and naturalist, and the Chef Renato Bernardi, Ambassador of the Mediterranean Diet in the World.
The project Torciano Longevity represents an innovative initiative that combines research on local raw materials, recognized as PDO, PGI and PAT by the Tuscany Region, with the most recent scientific discoveries. Local agri-food excellences, which embody centuries-old traditions and production methods that respect people, animals and the environment, could constitute the key to an “elixir of long life” and to the protection of the environment itself, fundamental for authentic and lasting sustainability.
Pierluigi Giachi, owner of Torciano, expressed his enthusiasm: «We must focus on promoting a healthy lifestyle, capable of bringing real benefits to our health. Longevity is not just a concept, but our new mission here in Torciano. In Tuscany, we nourish ourselves with a healthy environment and let ourselves be guided by the slowness that characterizes us. Our excellences, certified by the Tuscany Region, are a fundamental support in this journey and I am proud to give voice to small producers who preserve centuries-old traditions, essential for health and the environment.”
Prof. Fulvio Ursini explored the topic of healthy aging, stating: «To age well, it is crucial to maintain a balance between oxidation and anti-oxidation in our body. It is essential to reduce the formation of inflammatory senescent cells. Our diet should promote this balance, avoiding excesses of both what is beneficial and what could be harmful. This approach invites us to move from an exclusion diet to a stimulus diet, making our cells stronger and more resilient.”
Dr. Stefano Ciatti highlighted the exceptional longevity of the province of Siena: «Siena is the third province in Italy for longevity, and Italy is first in Europe. This phenomenon, in addition to genetics, is closely linked to our diet and typical products. Regular physical activity, as demonstrated by events such as the Eroica and the Francigena path, is essential. Our slower pace of life and the beauty of the landscape contribute significantly to our well-being.”
Finally, the journalist Luca Sardella shared his vision: «The Mediterranean diet, associated with an active lifestyle, is essential for rediscovering well-being through nature. Walking in the countryside and in the woods enriches our lives and brings us closer to our environment. Living in harmony with nature is essential to ensure health and sustainability. As stewards of the Earth, we have a responsibility to preserve it for future generations.”
In conclusion, Tuscan food, territory, environment and culture are the authentic “elixir of long life”, a heritage to be rediscovered and enhanced for personal well-being and the protection of our planet.
