Episode 22
Italian Secrets to a Long and Healthy Life
Welcome back to another episode of A New Life in Italy. I'm your host, Samantha Wilson. Today, we delve into a topic that fascinates many: the health and longevity of Italians.
Italy is celebrated for its healthy lifestyle, often attributed to the Mediterranean diet, a culture that values leisure, and strong family connections. However, there's more to it than just diet and exercise. In this episode, we explore what it truly means to live healthily in Italy, including the healthcare system and what happens when you get sick.
Our special guest today is Dr. Susan Levenstein, an American doctor who has been practicing in Rome for nearly 40 years. Dr. Levenstein shares her insights into the health of Italians, the lifestyle, and the differences between the Italian and American healthcare systems. She highlights the universal access to healthcare in Italy, the benefits of the Mediterranean diet, and the cultural habits that contribute to the longevity of Italians.
Dr. Levenstein also touches on the lower rates of gun ownership, drug abuse, and the importance of social networks and family ties in Italy. She emphasizes that while the Italian healthcare system may not be perfect, it provides essential care that contributes to the overall well-being of its residents.
For those inspired by this episode, you can find more about Dr. Levenstein through her book Dottoressa: An American Doctor in Rome and her blog Stethoscope on Rome. Links to these resources are available in the show notes.
We also address listener questions about taxes on liquid assets when moving to Italy, the elective residency visa, and the reality of one-euro homes.
Resources:
Dottoressa: An American Doctor in Rome
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Until next time!
Ci vediamo!
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