Blue Zones: In these five places in the world, people are living longer and healthier Health

The term blue zone was coined by researcher and author Dan Buettner, who wrote the book Blue Zones: Lessons for Living Longer than People Who Lived Longest. In this book, he mentions places where a relatively large number of people over 100 live without health problems, such as heart disease, obesity, cancer or diabetes.

According to Peter, people in blue zones have a few things in common: A healthy lifestyle. Among other things, lots of (natural) exercise, healthy and mindful eating, a sense of connectedness, plenty of space for reflection, relaxation and spirituality are a number of things that are important to residents of blue zones.

But where are those places? They come:

Ikaria, Greece

On the Greek island of Ikaria, a third of the population lives to 90 years or more. Most of them are in good health. the secret? Islanders have a strong sense of community and take naps every day. Their Mediterranean diet also guarantees healthy aging: people in Ikaria eat lots of fruits, vegetables, beans, whole grain products, and olive oil.

Okinawa, Japan

It is very popular in Okinawa to practice yoga daily and eat small amounts of it. Okinawans even have their own term for this: hara hachi bu. In short, this means you stop eating once you are 80% full.

Loma Linda, California

Loma Linda is home to many Adventists. They pray every day, do not drink alcohol, have a strong sense of belonging, and celebrate a day of rest from Friday evening to Saturday evening. At Loma Linda, little meat and a relatively large number of plants and nuts are eaten. Americans live in Loma Linda on average 10 years longer than their compatriots.

Augusta, Sardinia

A vegetarian diet, lots of daily exercise and close family ties. It ensures that the Ogliastra has the largest concentration of aging males.

Nicoya, Costa Rica

Nicoya eats a relatively large amount of beans, pumpkin, corn, and tropical fruits. This nutritious vegan diet combined with plenty of exercise helps the Nicoya population grow strong and healthy. Residents are also very spiritual.