There are some encouraging signs around the world that the Covid-19 curve is flattening in some places, while falling in others. During the course of this pandemic we are focussing, on this podcast, less on longevity and more on our immediate futures. But as life slowly evolves towards a new normal, there are many lessons to be learned from the pandemic and the role science plays in our lives. In this episode we catch up with Prof. Valter Longo, director of the Longevity Institute at the University of Southern California and director of the Longevity and Cancer Program at IFOM Institute of Molecular Oncology in Milan in Italy. The Italian scientist splits his time between his home country and the United States, both badly affected by coronavirus.  In this episode we discuss the role of scientists working alongside doctors, sharing advice on how to behave during the outbreak. We also discuss the implications for people following a fasting mimicking diet, during a time when the risk of infection by the virus is high. 

Earlier LLAMA podcast conversations with Prof. Longo:

1. March 7, 2017: Creating the fasting mimicking diet
2. January 16, 2018: Living to 110 on a science-based diet

In this interview we discuss:

• Personal insights into the progression of coronavirus in Italy and the United States.
• The debate over the use of chloroquine to treat patients with Covid-19.
• Was time wasted in the US through the lack of advice to wear masks in the early stages of the outbreak?
• Speculation on why California has significantly few cases than other large population centers in the US. 
• The work of Dr. Longo's Create Cures Foundation, including education and work to combat childhood obesity. 
• Geographic differences in the spread of coronavirus
• Helping front-line health workers treating patients with coronavirus.  
• The power of scientists and doctors working together as a team.
• Is it safe to go on a diet, or fast, during the coronavirus outbreak?
• Latest news on the Fasting Mimicking Diet and new clinical trials.

The Live Long and Master Aging podcast shares ideas but does not offer medical advice.  If you have health concerns of any kind, or you are considering adopting a new diet or exercise regime, you should consult your doctor.  

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The Live Long and Master Aging (LLAMA) podcast, a HealthSpan Media LLC production, shares ideas but does not offer medical advice.  If you have health concerns of any kind, or you are considering adopting a new diet or exercise regime, you should consult your doctor.