You may have heard about the longevity diet, and its promise of an extended life span — but what exactly is it and is it any different to other diets promoting good health?

It’s a set of eating recommendations compiled by a biochemist called Valter Longo, director of the University of Southern California’s Longevity Institute.

He is known for his research on the role of fasting, the effects of nutrients on your genes and how these may impact ageing and the risk of diseases.

While the longevity diet has been targeted to older adults, it is also being recommended for younger people.