First things first, I hate dislike the word diet! The word diet (for me) seems like a short-term thing, a quick fix to years of bad food choices and lack of physical activity. It’s time to ditch the false belief in quick fixes and start by gradually focusing on adding healthy foods to your diet and incorporating healthier life choices into your daily routines. The word “lifestyle” best fits this process! Diets are a thing of the past!
So let’s dive into the Blue Zone Lifestyle
In 2004, Dan Buettner sought to discover the specific aspects of lifestyle and environment that led to longevity. He found 5 demographical areas or zones with the highest percentage of people living well beyond the age of 100. The 5 demographical areas are as follows: Nicoya-Costa Rica, Sardinia-Italy, Ikaria-Greece, Okinawa -Japan, and Loma Linda -California.
Nicoya, Costa Rica has the lowest rate of middle age mortality. Nicoyans eat little to no processed foods but plenty of antioxidant-rich tropical fruits, as well as beans, squash, and corn.
In Okinawa, Japan, the Okinawa women live long beyond their 90s. They never overeat and their meals consist of large amounts of sweet potatoes which are high in beta-carotene and antioxidants.
Sardinia, Italy is home to the world’s longest-lived men due to their daily consumption of olive oil, whole-grain bread, beans, garden vegetables, and fruits Residents of Loma Linda, California daily diet consists of slow-cooked oatmeal, beans and nuts, dates, and leafy greens
In Ikaria, Greece, the Ikarians experience 20% less cancer, half the rate of heart disease, and almost no dementia. They eat a variation of the Mediterranean diet, with lots of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, beans, potatoes, and olive oil.
Additionally, Dan Buettner found similar lifestyle habits with the people living in these Blue Zones. They engage in daily physical activities, such as walking, gardening, etc. They have a clear sense of Purpose in their lives and a strong sense of belonging. They have effective ways of managing/dealing with daily stressors –
Okinawans- take a few moments each day to remember their ancestors; Loma Linda- pray; Ikarians – take naps, and Sardinians- do happy hour. And they put family and loved ones first and have social circles that support healthy behaviors.
A Danish study established that only about 20% of how long the average person lives is dictated by our genes, whereas 80% is dictated by our lifestyle choices! Consistently choosing healthier options is essential! As we have seen from the 5 Blue Zones, having a strong supportive community, spirituality, reducing stress and a healthy sense of self-worth are also important.
What do you think about the Blue Zone Lifestyle? Is this something you might want to incorporate into your day-to-day routine? Comment below
