Have you heard of Blue Zones? A team of really smart people, led by National Geographic Fellow Dan Buettner, have identified five places around the world where residents have unusually long and healthy lifespans.
Swipe through to find out where you can move to and live longer.
Most people in Nicoya, Costa Rica, have a strong sense of purpose, which may contribute to their long lives. The drinking water in this part of Costa Rica has a high calcium content, which might explain their low rates of heart disease. Many centenarians have eaten a diet rich in squash, corn and beans. Nicoyans love to gather with friends to listen and laugh.
Residents of the island of Sardinia, Italy, have remained culturally isolated for centuries and retained a traditional lifestyle. They hunt, fish and harvest their food, which focuses on vegetables and whole grains, as well as sheep’s and goat’s milk. They have lifelong, tight-knit communities of friends and families, who they love to laugh with on a daily basis.
Many of the residents of Loma Linda, California, are members of the Church of Seventh Day Adventists. They are vegetarians, and they eat a lot of heart-healthy nuts. Many Adventists make it a point to get regular exercise, and their faith forbids smoking and drinking. They also volunteer a lot, which contributes to a sense of well-being and happiness.
Once called the “land of immortals,” the islands at the southern end of Japan are home to people who have less cancer, heart disease and dementia than Americans. People from Okinawa credit their longevity to strong connections to friends and family. Also important is the Japanese concept of “ikigai,” which is described as the feeling of accomplishment and fulfillment that occurs when people pursue their passions.
Residents of Ikaria, Greece, live 8 years longer than Americans, have half the rate of heart disease, and almost no dementia. Ikarians get lots of exercise walking around their hilly island, and they eat a Mediterranean-style diet featuring lots of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, beans, potatoes and olive oil. They eat more fish than meat.
If a move isn’t in the cards, you can still adopt some Blue Zone practices that might help you live longer. Eat a more plant-based diet, and increase your intake of fish. Exercise more—you don’t have to run marathons; just get out and walk every day. Get involved with your community and hang out with family more.