What commonalities exist among the people who live longest in the world? Savannah White investigates the eating secrets of Blue Zones, areas where people live far longer and better lives. From Okinawa, Japan, to Sardinia, Italy, these areas provide insightful guidance on how to eat for lifetime.
A main tenet of Blue Zones diets is a concentration on plant-based foods. Meals in these areas start with staples such beans, lentils, healthful grains, and veggies. Okinawans, for instance, have a diet heavy in sweet potatoes, while Sardinians depend on whole-grain bread and garden-fresh vegetables.
Moderation is another often occurring thread. Considered “hara hachi bu,” people in Blue Zones eat until they are around 80% satisfied. This supports a good weight, which is essential for lifespan, and helps stop overindulgence.
Savannah also stresses the need of good fats, especially those from olive oil, nuts, and seeds. These fats include vital minerals and help lower inflammation, a major component of aging and chronic illness.
Apart from their diet, the way Blue Zones people eat is as crucial. Often shared with friends and family, meals help to create happiness and connection. This deliberate approach to eating nurtures the spirit as much as the body.
Changing your eating patterns to match Blue Zones can help you follow a tested road toward a longer, better life. Savannah White’s research of these diets reminds us that our well-being may be much improved with just basic, healthful meals.
x
