Latest news with #Liveto100:SecretsoftheBlueZones
National Geographic
15-07-2025
- Health
- National Geographic
What are ‘blue zones'? 5 places on Earth where the healthiest people live
These blue zones have unlocked the secret to long life. Here's what we can learn from them. Ogliastra in Sardinia, Italy, is one of five certified 'blue zones,' where citizens tend to live long and happy lives. Photograph By Christina Anzenberger-Fink & Ton/Anzenberger/Redux By National Geographic Staff If you live in 'blue zones,' there's a good chance you'll live to be 100. That's what National Geographic Explorer Dan Buettner found. Since 2004, Buettner has been studying places that not only have high concentrations of individuals over 100 years old, but also clusters of people who have grown old without health problems like heart disease, obesity, cancer, or diabetes. His findings launched books including, The Blue Zones Secrets for Living Longer: Lessons From the Healthiest Places on Earth, worldwide interest in these hot spots, and even a Netflix series, 'Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones.' So where are these 'blue zones,' what makes them so healthy, and what can we learn from them even if we don't live anywhere near one? Here's everything to know about blue zones. What defines a blue zone? Buettner's research has led him to identify five regions he's dubbed 'blue zones.' These are 'demographically confirmed, geographically defined' areas in the world where people are living to 100 at extraordinary rates—10 times greater than in the United States. They may be separated by great distances, but these certified blue zones share nine basic principles that researchers say contribute to long—and happy—lives. Among them are low-stress lifestyles that encourage regular movement, a strong sense of purpose, and a plant-based diet. (Here's how to lower stress in five minutes, according to science) In order to become a certified blue zone, an area must meet three sets of criteria: reliable documentation of birth and death rates, high national longevity compared to the rest of the world, and high local longevity. Where are the 5 blue zones? The five blue zones are located in Ikaria, Greece; Okinawa, Japan; Ogliastra Region, Sardinia, Italy; Loma Linda, California; and Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica. On the lush island of Okinawa, Japan, residents have strong social networks and a diet that prioritizes Okinawan sweet potato, turmeric, and bitter melon. Photograph By Markus Kirchgessner/laif/Redux The largest island in a subtropical archipelago controlled by Japan, Okinawa is home to the world's longest-lived women. Food staples like Okinawan sweet potatoes, soybeans, mugwort, turmeric, and goya (bitter melon) keep Okinawans living long and healthy lives. Buettner began his longevity research in Okinawa. (Learn why the traditional Okinawan diet is a recipe for long life) Located eight miles off the coast of Turkey in the Aegean Sea, Ikaria has some of the world's lowest rates of middle-age mortality and dementia. Research links the increased longevity of these Greek super-agers with the traditional Mediterranean diet, which is heavy in vegetables and healthy fats and contains smaller amounts of dairy and meat products. The mountainous highlands of Sardinia claim the world's highest concentration of centenarian men. Its population consumes a low-protein diet associated with lower rates of diabetes, cancer, and death for people under age 65. (Here are the many ways health actually improves as we age) One key element in the Blue Zones Diet is eating unprocessed foods, such as the homemade pasta prepared here with potato, pecorino cheese, and mint. Photograph By Andrea Frazetta, Nat Geo Image Collection Nicoya is located in a region of Central America with the world's lowest rate of middle-age mortality and the second highest concentration of male centenarians. The longevity secret here lies partly in strong faith communities, deep social networks, and habits of regular, low-intensity physical activity. The high concentration of Seventh-day Adventists in Loma Linda is credited with giving residents 10 more healthy years than the average American. Daily meals in this Los Angeles suburb follow a biblical diet of grains, fruits, nuts, and vegetables. (This American diet could add 10 years to your life) Residents of Loma Linda, California, engage in regular physical activity and eat a largely plant-based diet, which can lead to longer and healthier lives, according to the Adventist Health Study. Photograph by CALEB THAL, The New York Times/Redux What is the 'Blue Zones Diet'? Genetics play a key role in how long we live, but diet can be 'the entrance ramp for better health,' says Buettner. The Blue Zones Diet is built on the eating habits of blue zones citizens. About 95 percent of it is plant-based and 5 percent is animal based. That translates to a foundation of seasonal fruits and vegetables, plenty of beans and sweet potatoes, nuts, and whole grains. The diet encourages a reduction in meat, dairy, and fish. When people in blue zones do consume fish, they tend to go for smaller species that are not overfished, such as sardines and anchovies. It also follows the '80% rule,' which encourages people to stop eating when they feel mostly full. (Want a better high protein diet? You don't have to eat more meat) Many studies show that a blue zones diet can lead to better health and increased life expectancy. According to the Loma Linda University Adventist Health Study, which has been tracking thousands of participants since 1974, a pesco-vegetarian diet can lower the risk of death in the elderly by 18 percent. However, eating right is just part of the picture. After all, 'man does not live by bread alone.' The key to cultivating a long and healthy life may start with a good diet but builds on it with strong relationships and community. The good news is you don't have to live in a certified blue zone to reap the benefits. Editor's note: This story originally published on April 6, 2017. It was updated on July 15, 2025.
Time of India
19-05-2025
- Health
- Time of India
'Hara hachi bu': Japanese have been following this 80% rule for 300 years to live longer
In Okinawa, Japan—home to one of the world's oldest populations—a simple phrase often said before meals is more than a ritual. It's a way of life. ' Hara hachi bu ', meaning "belly 80 percent full", has been quietly influencing how generations eat, think, and live longer. The term surged into wider awareness after the 2023 Netflix docu-series Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones, where explorer Dan Buettner travels to regions known for exceptional longevity. In Okinawa, he observed this practice firsthand. 'This idea teaches each Japanese generation that our portion size is small,' said Asako Miyashita in Women's Health report. She is a registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN) who grew up in Japan. At its heart, 'hara hachi bu' is about moderation—not restriction. And its impact stretches beyond the plate. 5 5 Next Stay Playback speed 1x Normal Back 0.25x 0.5x 1x Normal 1.5x 2x 5 5 / Skip Ads by by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Remember Charlie Sheen's Ex-Wife? You Won't Believe What She Looks Like Now! womensportsonline Learn More Undo 300 Years of eating modestly The origins of 'hara hachi bu' trace back to 1713. Japanese philosopher and botanist Ekiken Kaibara wrote about the concept in his book Yojokun: Life Lessons From A Samurai. The book introduced the idea of 'hara hachi bun me'—to stop eating at 80 percent full—as part of a broader philosophy of self-healing and bodily awareness. Kaibara's own life lent some proof to the theory. 'He lived to be 83, which was rare in the Edo Period—the life expectancy was less than 50 years old,' Miyashita said. Live Events Even today, many Okinawans still speak the phrase aloud before meals. Miyashita recalled her own family doing the same. It acts both as a blessing and a gentle reminder: listen to your body. A slower, more satisfying way to eat For those raised to finish every bite on the plate, the idea of leaving food behind might feel uncomfortable. But according to dietitian Kouka Webb, who was raised on this principle in Japan, 'hara hachi bu' can actually make meals more enjoyable. 'By focusing on the flavours, textures, and aromas of the food, people may get more satisfaction from their meals,' Webb said. She finds herself more aware of what and how often she eats. That, in turn, makes dining feel richer—not restricted. Importantly, the practice isn't meant as a weight-loss tool. ''Hara hachi bu' is not a diet, but a lifestyle ,' said Webb. 'It encourages mindful eating and portion control without the need for strict calorie counting or eliminating certain food groups.' Why does Hara hachi bu give you a break Overeating places a strain on the body—digestively and hormonally. 'When you eat until you're 100 percent full (and beyond that), you slow down digestion, absorption, and metabolism,' Miyashita explained. This, she said, stresses organs like the pancreas, kidneys, liver, and intestines. Webb agrees. 'Eating until you're 80 percent full is associated with a lower risk of acid reflux, bloating, and gastrointestinal issues.' It also appears to help regulate blood sugar, as smaller meals reduce the risk of glucose spikes, a key concern for those managing insulin resistance. Obesity prevalence is just 3 to 4 percent in Japan. In contrast, the UK's rate stands at 25.9 percent, raising the risk of conditions like heart disease and type 2 diabetes. How does 'Hara hachi bu' help? Food isn't just fuel. It's emotional. And often, people eat beyond hunger—out of boredom, anxiety or habit. Webb notes, ''Hara hachi bu' can help distinguish between physical hunger and emotional eating.' Mindful eating, she said, can improve wellbeing and reduce stress. In a 2021 study published in Frontiers in Neuroendocrinology, researchers found women are two to three times more likely to experience mood-related disorders. Practices like 'hara hachi bu' may offer a buffer by fostering a more intentional relationship with food. Can it lower chronic disease risk? Evidence suggests it might. Okinawans who stick to traditional diets—including 'hara hachi bu'—have significantly lower rates of diseases like cancer, stroke, and heart disease. 'Eating until 80 percent full is associated with a lower risk of chronic diseases,' said Webb. A 2009 study in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition reported that incidence of breast, colon, and prostate cancer among Okinawans was about 50 percent lower than the rest of Japan. While more research is needed, the connection between moderation and longevity remains a strong one. Who should not practise this method? Not everyone may benefit equally. Webb pointed out that 'it can be difficult to gauge fullness levels, particularly for people who are not accustomed to mindful eating.' This can lead to eating too much—or too little. For those with a history of eating disorders, caution is key. 'People with eating disorders have lower energy intake than that of people without, therefore, 'hara hachi bu' could be dangerous because their daily intake exponentially decreased,' Miyashita warned. If you're unsure, both experts advise speaking with a healthcare provider before attempting the method. Starting Gently: How to practise 'Hara Hachi Bu' Curious to give it a try? Webb and Miyashita recommend starting with your environment. 'Choose a quiet place with minimal distractions,' said Webb. 'Leave your computer or TV off to avoid further distraction,' added Miyashita. Use smaller dishes to help your brain adjust to reduced portions. Begin meals with non-starchy vegetables and chew thoroughly—at least 15 times per bite. Stop at a 'six or seven' on the hunger scale. Check in with your body. Fullness signals take time. 'It takes about 15 to 20 minutes for your stomach to signal your brain that you are full,' Webb explained. Estimate 80 percent of your plate visually. If you're still unsure, wait before reaching for seconds. 'Wait 15-20 minutes before deciding to eat more,' said Webb. For beginners, a food journal can be helpful. Record what you ate, how much, and how it made you feel. 'Write without judgement and use it as a learning exercise,' said Miyashita. Over time, patterns emerge, and the practice may become second nature. Ultimately, 'hara hachi bu' is about reconnecting with your body. Not in pursuit of perfection, but in the quiet act of listening—one bite at a time.
Western Telegraph
09-05-2025
- Health
- Western Telegraph
Dan Buettner shares how popcorn could help you live to 100
Buettner, 64, is the founder of Blue Zones and the presenter of the popular Netflix documentary 'How to Live to 100'. The National Geographic fellow studies the world's 'blue zones' - otherwise known as areas on our planet where a high proportion of people live well into their old age. The author analyses everything about these areas including their diets and exercise routines to their work habits and relationships within their communities. What snack to eat to live to 100? Popcorn that is air-popped is packed with fibre, complex carbs, and more polyphenols than many vegetables, Buettner says. In an Instagram post, he states: 'It's the best longevity snack might already be in your pantry. 'It's affordable, easy to make, and most importantly it's delicious. Centenarian-approved.' Posted alongside a video clip, Buettner goes on to say how the snack is affordable. 'It's the best snack you can eat to live to 100 but you can also afford,' he adds. 'It's easy to make and store and it's delicious.' Discontinued UK sweets/chocolates What nutrients are in popcorn? Popcorn is a nutritious and relatively low-calorie snack when air-popped and consumed without excessive toppings like butter or salt. High in fibre Low in calories Rich in whole grains Antioxidants Recommended reading: Popcorn contains polyphenols, which are antioxidants with potential health benefits, such as improved blood circulation and digestive health. Buettner is an American author, explorer, storyteller, longevity researcher and public speaker. He co-produced the three-time Emmy Award winning documentary TV mini-series Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones (2023) based on his book by the same name.
South Wales Guardian
09-05-2025
- Health
- South Wales Guardian
Dan Buettner shares how popcorn could help you live to 100
Buettner, 64, is the founder of Blue Zones and the presenter of the popular Netflix documentary 'How to Live to 100'. The National Geographic fellow studies the world's 'blue zones' - otherwise known as areas on our planet where a high proportion of people live well into their old age. The author analyses everything about these areas including their diets and exercise routines to their work habits and relationships within their communities. A post shared by Dan Buettner (@danbuettner) Popcorn that is air-popped is packed with fibre, complex carbs, and more polyphenols than many vegetables, Buettner says. In an Instagram post, he states: 'It's the best longevity snack might already be in your pantry. 'It's affordable, easy to make, and most importantly it's delicious. Centenarian-approved.' Posted alongside a video clip, Buettner goes on to say how the snack is affordable. 'It's the best snack you can eat to live to 100 but you can also afford,' he adds. 'It's easy to make and store and it's delicious.' Popcorn is a nutritious and relatively low-calorie snack when air-popped and consumed without excessive toppings like butter or salt. Recommended reading: Popcorn contains polyphenols, which are antioxidants with potential health benefits, such as improved blood circulation and digestive health. Buettner is an American author, explorer, storyteller, longevity researcher and public speaker. He co-produced the three-time Emmy Award winning documentary TV mini-series Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones (2023) based on his book by the same name.
Forbes
06-04-2025
- Health
- Forbes
Longevity: From Buzzword To Nascent Business Category
The topic of longevity has recently captured the public imagination, thanks in part to the success of Netflix documentaries like Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones and Don't Die: The Man Who Wants to Live Forever. Once confined to niche scientific communities and wellness blogs, the idea of the extending human lifespan—or at least improving the quality of later years—is now entering mainstream conversation. In January 2021, Nature, one of the most popular journals in the life sciences field, began publishing a journal dedicated to aging called Nature Aging. In addition, a report by found that the amount of investment in this field has grown steadily over the past decade. A number of high-profile figures are backing the space. Jeff Bezos reportedly has invested in Altos Labs, which is focused on cellular reprogramming. Alphabet's Calico Life Sciences is another key player, exploring how biology and machine learning can combine to extend human life. And in one of the largest known personal investments in the space, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman reportedly committed $180 million of his own money into Retro Biosciences, a startup aiming to extend human lifespan by ten years. These bold moves suggest that longevity is no longer a fringe idea—it's becoming a serious venture category. But for all the headlines and hype, longevity remains an emerging and somewhat amorphous sector. Are we trying to live longer, or live better? Some initiatives aim to extend the human lifespan, pushing the boundaries of biological possibility; whereas others are focused on the improving the health span—reducing and even aiming to prevent the number of years people spend in poor health. In addition, the science is still unsettled. Many of the businesses receiving significant capital are building on promising—but still emerging—research. This creates a uniquely complex environment for investors, entrepreneurs, and researchers alike. Navigating the longevity space requires not only technical and scientific literacy but also a healthy dose of skepticism. As the field gains traction, the challenge lies in separating breakthroughs from buzzwords, and robust evidence from mere enthusiasm. In the midst of this uncertainty, one initiative is trying to bring order to the chaos. Longevity Global, a nonprofit founded by neuroscientist and entrepreneur Dr. Christin Glorioso, is building a global community to connect researchers, entrepreneurs, and investors in the longevity ecosystem. Communities like Longevity Global play a vital role in shaping nascent fields. Academic research has long shown that communities are critical in the early stages of market formation. They help legitimize the space, encourage knowledge sharing, and accelerate innovation. Glorioso, who is also CEO of NeuroAge Therapeutics, which uses AI to track and prevent brain aging, started the organization out of a personal need. 'When I launched my company in 2022, I was looking for a community of like-minded people interested in the longevity space, but couldn't find many,' she explains. That absence inspired action. Today, Longevity Global has grown to over 926 members, with a unique mix of stakeholders: 44% are entrepreneurs, 38% are researchers, and 15% are investors. The organization is designed to foster peer-to-peer learning, focusing not only on scientific developments but also on the business of longevity—how to fund, scale, and build credible ventures in a field still defining its boundaries. It acts as a connective tissue for the ecosystem, helping stakeholders find collaborators, learn from one another, and collectively solve the complex problems associated with aging. The community is expanding globally, with chapters in San Francisco, New York City, Dubai, Switzerland, and, most recently, Boston. "Boston has the elements of a great longevity ecosystem—cutting-edge research and a thriving startup scene," says Justin Taylor, Head of the Boston Chapter. "We're building a collaborative community to help advance it further." Recognizing the accelerating role of AI in longevity research, the Boston chapter—together with partners Mindvyne and host the Aging Code Summit in June. The event will explore the future of aging through the lens of AI and feature a pitchfest showcasing longevity startups, offering a front-row seat to some of the most promising ideas in the field. As longevity continues to evolve from concept to category, it will require more than just capital—it will need coordination, credibility, and collaboration. Communities that bring together stakeholders across science, startups, and finance may influence how this field matures. In the years ahead, the success of the longevity sector may depend less on isolated breakthroughs and more on the ecosystem's ability to learn, adapt, and grow together.
