Longevity, a popular topic today. How do we lead a long, healthy life? Let’s dive into it.

You may find it interesting that the United States is ranked #47 in the world when it comes to life expectancy, with an average age of 82 for females and 77 for males². Are you surprised that there are 46 countries with an overall longer life expectancy than the “great USA”?

Blue Zones are those areas that appear to live the “longest and most healthy” lives. There are 5 regions identified as Blue Zones including: 1) Sardinia, Italy  2) Okinawa, Japan  3) Nicoya, Costa Rica  4) Loma Linda, California, USA  5) Ikaria, Greece¹.

So, we ask ourselves: What are these regions doing differently to promote a longer, healthier life?

The Power 9– Studies have found 9 common factors across areas with longer life expectancies¹.

1. Move Naturally- Live in an environment that encourages movement.
2. Purpose– Having purpose (“why you wake up in the morning”) may add up to 7 years to life expectancy!
3. Downshift– Stress is impossible to avoid. The negative effects of stress are well known (increased cortisol, lower sleep quality, inflammation, etc). Managing that stress is key.
4. 80% Rule– In simple terms, stop eating just before you are full, but also so you are no longer hungry.
5. Plant Slant– Incorporating fruits, vegetables, beans, and nuts into daily diet.
6. Wine– Interestingly, across the blue zones, majority drink wine regularly, about 1-2 glasses daily. It is important to note, not only the quantity but the QUALITY of what is consumed (high quality red wine rich in flavonoids).
7. Belong– Being a part of a community.
8. Loved Ones First– Staying close with parents and grandparents, committing to a life partner (may add up to 3 years to life expectancy), and giving time and love to children.
9. Right Tribe– Who you surround yourself with.

After considering the above, I believe we can all work together as a community to do better. Everyone’s wellness journey is unique. Health and wellness are not a “one size fits all” but there are general guidelines supported by research. When starting your wellness journey choose realistic, achievable, and sustainable goals. Approach these life changes methodically, focusing on one item at a time. Remember perfection is not a goal; the end goal is to do better, feel better, and live better. While many diseases are contagious, wellness can also be spread!

Lindsey, PharmD, BCPS

References

¹Buettner, D., & Skemp, S. (2016). Blue zones. American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine, 10(5), 318–321. https://doi.org/10.1177/1559827616637066

²Life expectancy of the World Population. Worldometer. (2023). https://www.worldometers.info/demographics/life-expectancy/