17 JULY, 2023
Ayaan Paul Chowdhury
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Blue zones are regions around the world where people tend to live longer, healthier lives compared to the global average. These areas have drawn the attention of researchers seeking to uncover the secrets to longevity.
A number of studies have found that these areas contain extremely high rates of nonagenarians and centenarians, which are people who live over 90 and 100, respectively.
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These blue zones offer valuable insights into the factors that contribute to longevity, including a sense of purpose, strong social connections, regular physical activity, and healthy dietary patterns.
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By adopting some of these practices, individuals can potentially improve their overall well-being and increase their chances of living a long and healthy life. Have a look.
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Okinawa is home to the world’s oldest women, who eat a lot of soy-based foods and practice tai chi, a meditative form of exercise.
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Okinawans have a concept called "ikigai", which means "reason for being". Having a clear purpose in life is believed to contribute to their longevity.
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Okinawans follow a primarily plant-based diet rich in vegetables, tofu, and seaweed, which is low in calories and high in nutrients.
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The Ogliastra region of Sardinia is home to some of the oldest men in the world. They live in mountainous regions where they typically work on farms and drink lots of red wine.
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Sardinians place a high value on family and maintain close-knit relationships across generations, providing social support and a sense of belonging.
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The Sardinian lifestyle involves physical activity through daily chores, farming, and walking, contributing to their overall health and well-being.
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The Seventh-day Adventists are a very religious group of people. They’re strict vegetarians and live in tight-knit communities.
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Loma Lindans follow a vegetarian diet that emphasises whole grains, nuts, legumes, and fruits, which is associated with lower risks of chronic diseases.
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Loma Lindans often belong to the Seventh-day Adventist Church, which encourages a sense of community, social support, and healthy lifestyle practices.
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The Nicoyan diet is based around beans and corn tortillas. The people of this area regularly perform physical jobs into old age and have a sense of life purpose known as “plan de vida.”
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Nicoyans engage in daily physical activities such as walking, farming, and other manual work, which helps them maintain mobility and strength.
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Strong social connections are a cornerstone of life in Nicoya, with a focus on supportive relationships, community engagement, and a positive outlook.
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Ikaria is an island in the Agean Sea in Greece where people eat a renowned Mediterranean diet and practice moderate to low forms of physical activity.
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The laidback lifestyle in Ikaria helps reduce stress levels, as the inhabitants prioritise leisure, socialising, and enjoying life's simple pleasures.
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Ikarians consume a diet rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, olive oil, and moderate amounts of fish, contributing to their health and longevity.