Blue Zones-Part II

“A long healthy life is no accident. It begins with good genes, but it also depends on good (lifelong) habits. If you adopt the right lifestyle, experts say, chances are you may live up to a decade longer.”  

                                                                                 -Dan Buettner, Author of Blue Zones                                                                                                                                  

Blue Zones continue to fascinate many scientists, health care professionals and common people throughout the world.  There have been numerous books, cookbooks, articles, and documentaries (check out Blue Zones documentary on Netflix), supporting the now well-known practices of these timeless cultures. Most of these cultures live long healthy lives by simply eating well--mostly a plant-based diet, small amounts of meat and dairy, incorporating natural movement into daily life, adequate rest, meaningful social relationships and a great sense of community, a life of purpose that is filled with faith. Modern medical interventions may play a role in their health, but mostly these cultures live a naturally healthy lifestyle, many of these people living quality years well into their 100s. You won’t find a quick fix in a bottle of diet pills or with hormone therapy.  The blue zone areas in the world are notably: Sardinia, Italy; Ikaria, Greece; Nicoya, Costa Rica; Okinawa, Japan; and Loma Linda, California, home of the Seventh Day Adventists.

Hilton Head Island is the perfect place to live life in a “Blue Zone.” Start with making small changes in your diet. The Mediterranean diet is classic and well accepted in our western medical establishment. Get out and walk or bike these gorgeous paths that are throughout the island. Take time to walk on the beach and simply give thanks. Cherish friends and family. Here are some suggestions for eating the healthfully:

 Mediterranean Diet:

a.       Olive oil, avocado, coconut oils (healthy omega 3 fats and MTC)

b.       Nuts- almonds, walnuts, brazil nuts

c.       Legumes- beans, lentils, peas

d.       Seeds- ground flax, hemp, chia

e.       Eat a rainbow assortment of fruits and vegetables daily (preferably 10 servings per day)

f.        Whole grains- brown rice, oats, quinoa

g.       Probiotic foods- yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, miso, kombucha, and sour dough bread

h.       Organic meat and wild caught fish in small quantities

i.         Incorporate spices and herbs into your daily life such as cinnamon, turmeric, cumin, ginger, basil, oregano

j.         Drink plenty or water, enjoy tea, coffee and wine (thankfully!)

To your health!!

Ann