What is a Blue Zone?
The concept was put forth by Dan Buettner, who conducted demographic studies on longevity. The term “Blue Zone” has no scientific basis; rather, it refers to the color used by Buettner and his collaborators to mark these areas on their maps.
Long life island: Icaria, Greece
The first stop is Icaria, a Greek island in the Aegean Sea. The island has a serene vibe and plenty of fresh fish, fruits and vegetables. And more than 30 percent of its population makes it into their 90s. Various studies have been conducted, but the general consensus is that their longevity is due to a healthy diet, genetics and lifestyle. Observing the island’s peaceful environment, this seems entirely plausible. To visit Icaria and experience this laid-back atmosphere, here’s information on flights to Greece.
A dynamic lifestyle: Sardinia, Italy
Our second Blue Zone is Sardinia! With centuries-old oak and olive trees, Sardinia offers a delicious example of the Mediterranean diet that spotlights the vegetables and fruits grown in the island’s fertile soil. Sardinians attribute the secret of their longevity to their diet and to their genetics, as well as their sense of humor. In addition, the island’s topography promotes an active lifestyle.
To visit this Mediterranean paradise – known for its scorching sun, clear waters, juicy red tomatoes and honey-like figs – here’s a ticket to Italy. And who knows, maybe you’ll learn something from the older and wiser inhabitants of Sardinia…
Healthy living as a culture: Okinawa Island, Japan
The third Blue Zone has the longest life expectancy in the world! Japan’s Okinawa Island is home to centenarians as well as people who are even older. While it’s worth noting that many records, such as birth certificates, were destroyed during the Second World War, the island’s residents, according to the Blue Zone website, eat a mainly plant-based diet that includes purple and orange sweet potatoes – allegedly known for their antioxidant properties.
In addition, many older Okinawans follow a long tradition of healthy living, featuring regular exercise and meditation.
Lots of rain, lots of vegetables: Nicoya, Costa Rica
The fourth Blue Zone is Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula, where people live active lives into their 90s. Nicoya has an equatorial climate and lovely beaches, one of which is a major nesting area for three turtle species. Corn and various beans are grown here and are a key part of the diet. In addition, Nicoya’s inhabitants, like those in other Blue Zones, have an active lifestyle.
For a cause: Loma Linda, California/USA
The fifth and final Blue Zone is Loma Linda, in California, USA. People in Loma Linda live at least ten years longer than the average American. A factor in this statistic may be the presence of a large community of Seventh-day Adventists: practitioners of this faith are vegetarians and eschew alcohol and tobacco products.
