The ‘Blue Zones’ have been identified as pockets around the world where people live for longer, and with good quality of life. It was found through research that people reached the age of 100 at rates 10 times greater than in the U.S.A., when living in the following 5 regions of the world.
• 1. Sardinia, Italy
• 2. Okinawa, Japan
• 3. Loma Linda, California
• 4. Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica
• 5. Ikaria, Greece
What do all of these people, from varying parts of the world, share as common beliefs and principles?
1. Moderate, regular physical activity – mostly outside. Sunshine, when possible.
2. A strong life purpose – living in the present, having empowerment, being happy.
3. Stress reduction.
4. Moderate caloric intake, and not over-eating.
5. A plant-based diet – mostly growing their own food; organic and with love. Lots of legumes, nuts, whole grains, turmeric, and some soy. Abundant fresh water.
6. Red wine, in moderation, and non-smokers.
7. Encompassing spirituality or religion.
8. A strong connection to family.
9. A healthy social circle, and integrating into their communities.
The plant-based diets that these people employ are 60-70% of the calories from non-processed carbohydrates, that are high in fibre, 12% from protein, 20% from fats, and foods high in flavonoids.
Common foods to help you live past 100:
o Quinoa (red/dark)
o Purple sweet potatoes
o Nuts (almonds, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, and flaxseeds)
o Black lentils and legumes
o Broccoli
o Fruit (peaches, nectarines, apricots)
o Pomegranate seeds
o Rice (black or dark purple)
o Greens (dandelion, purple and red kale, Swiss Chard)
o Carrots
o Mushrooms (cooked)
o Onions (red, deep yellow)
o Berries (blackberries and acai)
o Red wine (moderation)
o Fermented Foods (for example kefir, sauerkraut, natto)
May you live a long, healthy, and happy life!
For more information on Blue Zones, please visit www.bluezones.com and check out Dan Buettner’s book The Blue Zones: Lessons for Living Longer from the People Who’ve Lived the Longest
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