The Blue Zones
LOMA LINDA , CA
Healthy social circle Eating nuts
SARDINIA , ITALY |
Fava beans
High polyphenol wine
Whole grains Culturally isolated
Family No smoking Plant-based diet
Constant moderate physical activity
Social engagement legumes
Empowered women Sunshine Gardening
|
High soy consumption
No alcohol Faith
No “ time urgency ”
Likeability
Turmeric
|
OKINAWA , JAPAN |
seasonal fruits and vegetable , and a variety of beans , nuts , seeds and grains is the cornerstone of their dietary pattern .
The long-lived people in the Blue Zones don ’ t avoid dairy foods or gluten . They don ’ t calculate the glycaemic index of their meals . They don ’ t ruminate on if the grains they are eating are stopping the absorption of other nutrients . They don ’ t take supplements . They eat . They move . They enjoy . They socially engage with their community in person . They live a full and balanced life .
You don ’ t need a PhD in nutrition to be able to make sense of all the nutrition messages you hear in the media . When it comes to your health , take a step back and learn from the people in the world who have got this mastered .
Why do people in Blue Zones live longer ?
A lot of the work in Blue Zones has been based on observations on the ground . Current research has identified nine key elements that support the habits that are linked to longevity within these Blue Zones :
Incorporating movement naturally as part of their daily routine . Blue Zone residents move every 10 to 15 minutes .
1 Have a sense of purpose each day .
2 Down shift and maintain a routine that helps keep them relaxed . Stress can lead to chronic inflammation in the body .
3 Stop eating when they are 80 per cent full .
4 They eat a more plant-based diet and minimal red meat .
5 They enjoy a glass of wine with friends and family .
6 They live as part of a community , whether it be faith-based or meeting up once a week for a knitting ( or similar ) class .
7 Engagement with family is key to a Blue Zone way of life .
8 Enjoy an active social life .
AUTUMN 2017 YMCA HEALTHY LIVING MAGAZINE 17