Want to live longer? 5 gorgeous places might hold the secret
In which countries people live the longest and happiest lives (photo: Freepik)
Imagine places where people not only live to be a hundred but also enjoy full, active lives in old age. These regions truly exist! The locals there have no idea what dementia is and remain active and full of energy. The Mirror shares the five places on Earth where people live to be one hundred and beyond.
How did the "Blue Zones" come about?
Nearly 20 years ago, researcher and journalist Dan Buettner set out on a journey around the world with his team to find communities with the highest number of centenarians.
The result of this quest was the discovery of five unique regions, named the "Blue Zones."
These places, scattered across different continents, are remarkable not only for their natural beauty but also for the exceptional longevity and vitality of their residents.
Ikaria, Greece: Island where dementia is forgotten
On the Greek island of Ikaria, one in three residents lives to the age of ninety, and cases of dementia are almost nonexistent. The secret lies in the Mediterranean diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, potatoes, and olive oil.
Ikarians also enjoy herbal teas, milk from grass-fed goats, and always take a midday nap.
The Blue Zones team claims these simple habits can significantly extend our lives.
Beyond longevity, Ikaria is also known for its traditional festivals, cozy taverns, and beautiful beaches.
Ikaria (photo: Wikipedia)
Loma Linda, California, USA: Living 10 years longer
In the American Blue Zone of Loma Linda lives a community of about 9,000 Seventh-day Adventists who live up to ten years longer than the average American.
Their lifestyle centers around a mostly vegetarian diet, regular physical activity, and complete avoidance of smoking and alcohol.
A key part of their routine is observing a 24-hour Sabbath, which helps reduce stress and strengthen social bonds.
Studies show that Adventists with a healthy weight, an active lifestyle, and limited or no meat consumption have lower blood pressure, lower cholesterol, and fewer cardiovascular issues.
.jpg)
Panorama of Loma Linda, California (photo: Wikipedia)
Sardinia, Italy: Strong families and staying active
A cluster of villages in Sardinia was the first Blue Zone identified by Buettner. Here, the number of centenarians per capita is nearly ten times higher than in the United States.
Residents of Sardinia favor whole grain bread, beans, vegetables, fruits, and goat's milk. Moderate wine consumption, according to Buettner, helps reduce stress, especially in men.
Strong family ties also play a key role: those living in tight-knit families are less likely to suffer from depression and stress.
Additionally, Sardinian shepherds walk more than eight kilometers daily, which benefits their cardiovascular system, muscles, and bones without putting strain on the joints.
A beach in Sardinia (photo: Wikipedia)
Okinawa, Japan: Long life for women and a sweet potato diet
The people of Okinawa, a subtropical archipelago, are known for their longevity and low rates of cancer, heart disease, and dementia.
Women in Okinawa live longer than any other women on the planet. Their diet, primarily plant-based, includes sweet potatoes, stir-fried vegetables, and tofu—foods that are nutrient-dense and low in calories.
Most centenarians in Okinawa have spent or still spend time gardening. This not only provides them with physical activity but also ensures a supply of fresh vegetables.
Daily exposure to fresh air also helps them maintain optimal levels of vitamin D year-round.
National park near Okinawa, Japan (photo: Wikipedia)
Nicoya, Costa Rica: Sun, calcium, and joy in physical labor
The Nicoya Peninsula in Costa Rica is known for its sunshine, mountainous landscapes, and stunning beaches.
The local water has the highest calcium content in the country, which may be why residents have low rates of heart disease and strong bones.
Centenarians in Nicoya traditionally follow a Mesoamerican diet (including squash, corn, and beans) and prefer to eat a light dinner early in the evening.
They also spend plenty of time in the sun, getting natural vitamin D. Buettner notes that Nicoya residents "find joy in daily physical activity," which contributes to their longevity.
Nicoya, Costa Rica (photo: Wikipedia)
You may be interested in:
- Where to find the "Ukrainian Maldives" and how to get there for vacation
- The mysterious and inspiring Busha, which every Ukrainian should visit at least once
- What to see in Rakhiv and why it is called the Little Alps of Ukraine
