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Why stop at 100? Italian longevity expert aims to live till 120, and his 4 daily habits might help you too
Why stop at 100? Italian longevity expert aims to live till 120, and his 4 daily habits might help you too

Time of India

time23-07-2025

  • Health
  • Time of India

Why stop at 100? Italian longevity expert aims to live till 120, and his 4 daily habits might help you too

Most people dream of hitting 100 with a cake, candles, and maybe a letter from the president. But for world-renowned biogerontologist Dr. Valter Longo , that milestone is just the beginning. The Italian-American scientist and longevity expert has set his sights on reaching the age of 120—and he's walking, fasting, and plant-eating his way there every day. Speaking to CNBC Make It in 2024, Longo, who leads both the Longevity Institute at the University of Southern California and the Cancer and Longevity Lab at IFOM in Milan, shared his personal aspiration: 'I'd like to make it to 120. But whatever I get, it's okay. At least I'll have no regrets saying, 'Well, I didn't do all the right things.'' Explore courses from Top Institutes in Please select course: Select a Course Category Project Management Technology PGDM Data Science Degree Management Cybersecurity CXO Others Data Analytics Leadership Design Thinking Artificial Intelligence Public Policy Product Management Data Science MCA Finance MBA Healthcare healthcare Operations Management others Digital Marketing Skills you'll gain: Portfolio Management Project Planning & Risk Analysis Strategic Project/Portfolio Selection Adaptive & Agile Project Management Duration: 6 Months IIT Delhi Certificate Programme in Project Management Starts on May 30, 2024 Get Details Skills you'll gain: Project Planning & Governance Agile Software Development Practices Project Management Tools & Software Techniques Scrum Framework Duration: 12 Weeks Indian School of Business Certificate Programme in IT Project Management Starts on Jun 20, 2024 Get Details He's spent more than three decades researching the secrets of long life—and practices what he preaches. Growing Up Near Centenarians Born and raised in Italy, Longo returned to his homeland 20 years ago to study firsthand what makes some parts of the country—like Sardinia, a Blue Zone—so full of centenarians. His findings have shaped a clear but sustainable lifestyle model for those aiming not just to live longer, but healthier. Food First: The Longevity Diet Forget fads. Longo's prescription for long life starts in the kitchen with what he calls the Longevity Diet , a blend of the Okinawan and Mediterranean eating philosophies. That means: You Might Also Like: How to live past age 100? Doctor who crossed the century mark reveals lifestyle rules for longevity Mostly plant-based meals High intake of vegetables, moderate fruits Tree nuts, legumes, and whole grains Fish three to four times a week No red or white meat Minimal dairy and eggs Studies support his approach: eating Mediterranean-style has been shown to reduce the risk of chronic illnesses like Type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Fasting for Fuel One of Longo's more unique habits is 12-hour intermittent fasting—eating all meals within a 12-hour window, like 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. He also helped pioneer the Fasting-Mimicking Diet (FMD), a five-day regimen low in calories and protein but rich in healthy fats, designed to trick the body into thinking it's fasting—without actually giving up food. The diet is rotated every few months. A 2024 study led by Longo even found that this method significantly lowered risks of cancer, heart disease, and diabetes in animal models. You Might Also Like: Cardio is not enough: Scientists reveal the muscle-building secret to healthy longevity View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mighty Pursuit (@mightypursuit) Move Naturally and Often Exercise, of course, is non-negotiable. Longo recommends at least 150 minutes of activity per week, aligning with global health guidelines. But he ups the ante: an additional hour of walking daily, including stairs and everyday errands. 'Some of these things have been abandoned,' Longo told CNBC Make It, 'but they were very normal for the people that made it to 100 years of age.' Sleep Well, Stay Happy While Longo isn't a sleep scientist, he emphasizes that quality sleep is crucial. Tips from sleep experts include: Keeping a consistent bedtime Avoiding naps after 2 p.m. Creating a cool, restful environment But for Longo, mental wellbeing may be just as important. Drawing from advice by Harvard happiness expert Arthur C. Brooks, he believes in maintaining emotional balance through faith, family, friends, and meaningful work—the four cornerstones of a fulfilling life. Despite his accolades and research credentials, Longo remains humble about his own goal to live to 120: 'I don't know if I hit the target all the way, but I certainly think it's good to try.' In a world obsessed with quick fixes, his slow-and-steady philosophy stands out: live simply, eat naturally, move daily, rest deeply, and stay connected.

Kinbato: A Japanese Paloma cocktail recipe
Kinbato: A Japanese Paloma cocktail recipe

Japan Today

time19-07-2025

  • Entertainment
  • Japan Today

Kinbato: A Japanese Paloma cocktail recipe

By Lauren Shannon Say hello to the Kinbato, our refreshing original Japanese cocktail recipe inspired by the tropical flavors of Okinawa. For this, we're putting a Japanese twist on the classic Paloma cocktail. With Japan's humid summer in full swing, this light, zesty cocktail is perfect for Japanese-style outdoor BBQs or winding down after a day in the sun. Let us bring a little Okinawan sunshine to your glass with this Japanese Paloma cocktail recipe — you're going to love it! The Inspiration A couple of kinbato doves, also known as Emerald Dove For this creation, we are getting our inspiration from a well-known drink in Central America: the Paloma. Many people think that the tequila-based Margarita is the most famous drink in Mexico, but actually, the national Mexican cocktail is the Paloma. This classic drink is also made with a tequila base. Other ingredients include grapefruit juice and a sweet citrusy soda — a refreshing cocktail. The word Paloma means 'dove' in Spanish, so our new version will be named after a beautiful, colorful dove, the Kinbato, which can be found in Japan's southernmost prefecture. For our Kinbato cocktail, we will keep the classic ratios and stay with a citrus-forward summer drink with a strong alcohol kick. Using Shikuwasa Image: iStock: botamochi We are using shikuwasa juice as the citrus element in our recipe. Shikuwasa is an Okinawan lime with a rich citrus flavor and a sour taste. In Japan, it is used like lemon to flavor grilled meat, fish and salad dressings. It can also be used in ice cream, desserts and juice drinks — everything is possible with shikuwasa Shikuwasa can be easily purchased online, especially in bottled juice form. While it's harder to find fresh outside of Okinawa, if you do have access to the real thing, by all means, use it. The fresh flavor is brighter and uniquely more refreshing. Since fresh shikuwasa are pretty small — most about three centimeters in diameter — the best way to juice them is to cut a slice in the skin and squeeze the fruit whole without cutting in half as we often do with lemons or limes. This method not only makes juicing easier but also helps keep seeds out of your juice (and your cocktail). The Sweetness & Spice Image: Lauren Shannon Click here to read more. External Link © Savvy Tokyo

Japanese Imperial Family Spends Time at Nasu Villa in Tochigi Prefecture for Vacation
Japanese Imperial Family Spends Time at Nasu Villa in Tochigi Prefecture for Vacation

Yomiuri Shimbun

time19-07-2025

  • Yomiuri Shimbun

Japanese Imperial Family Spends Time at Nasu Villa in Tochigi Prefecture for Vacation

NASU, Tochigi — The Emperor, the Empress and their daughter Princess Aiko arrived at the Nasu Imperial Villa in Nasu, Tochigi Prefecture, for vacation on Friday evening. Dressed in kariyushi wear (traditional Okinawan clothes), the Imperial family, took a walk around the premises. The Emperor told reporters, 'I hope we are able to relax in the rich natural environment.' The Empress added, 'The air is cool and refreshing.' It is the first time for Princess Aiko to visit Nasu in July since she was four years old. 'I hope I can find various interesting things here,' she said. The family is scheduled to stay until around the end of this month.

What are ‘blue zones'? 5 places on Earth where the healthiest people live
What are ‘blue zones'? 5 places on Earth where the healthiest people live

National Geographic

time15-07-2025

  • 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.

Two Canadian pizzaiolos among the world's 100 best pizza chefs
Two Canadian pizzaiolos among the world's 100 best pizza chefs

Vancouver Sun

time14-07-2025

  • Entertainment
  • Vancouver Sun

Two Canadian pizzaiolos among the world's 100 best pizza chefs

An independent voting panel of 512 experts from 60 countries has recognized what locals already knew. Ryan Baddeley of Toronto's Pizzeria Badiali and Cédric Toullec of Halifax's Lou Pécou Artisanal Pizzeria make some of the best pizza in the world. The third edition of The Best Pizza Awards , a 'celebration of global pizza excellence and innovation,' recently took place in Milan, Italy. Baddeley was named No. 51 for his 'refined yet nostalgic approach' to New York-style pizza by the slice. Toullec, whose ethos is 'rooted in sustainability and authenticity,' placed No. 93. Italian pizza chefs dominated the 2025 ranking with 36 of the 100 spots, including the top three. 'Famed for his mastery of dough and pioneering techniques,' Francesco Martucci of I Masanielli in Caserta was crowned the world's best pizza chef. (Up from No. 5 in 2024.) Franco Pepe of Caiazzo's Pepe in Grani, 'A pioneer of terroir-driven pizza,' was named No. 2, down from the top spot in 2024 and 2023. Gabriele Bonci of Rome's Pizzarium , who earned the nickname 'Michelangelo of pizza' for his pizza al taglio (rectangular pies sold by the slice), rose one place from last year to round out the top three. Discover the best of B.C.'s recipes, restaurants and wine. By signing up you consent to receive the above newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc. A welcome email is on its way. If you don't see it, please check your junk folder. The next issue of West Coast Table will soon be in your inbox. Please try again Interested in more newsletters? Browse here. Though chefs based in pizza's birthplace understandably stole the spotlight, two Tokyo pizzaiolos made the top 10. Rome-born Daniele Cason of The Pizza Bar on 38th came in at No. 6, and self-taught Okinawan chef Tsubasa Tamaki placed No. 10 for the Neapolitan-style pizza he bakes in a cedar-fired oven at Pizza Studio Tamaki . Jorge Sastre and Rafa Panatieri were the only other pizza chefs outside Italy to break the top 10. The friends placed No. 8 for the artisanal 'farm-to-pizza' pies they make at Barcelona's Sartoria Panatieri , which showcase organic, local and seasonal products. Alongside pizza chefs from countries including Brazil, India, Taiwan, the Philippines and the United States, Baddeley and Toullec were the only Canadian pizzaiolos to make the 2025 list. Baddeley, a former fine-dining chef who worked at Toronto restaurants including Bar Isabel and Bar Raval, opened Pizzeria Badiali in 2021. It's since become a community fixture with lines around the block. 'Badiali is about more than just great ingredients — it's about heritage and craftsmanship. Using three-day fermented dough and premium Italian flour, each pizza balances crispy, airy texture with bold, familiar flavours,' The Best Pizza Awards said on Instagram . Founded in 2022, Toullec named his Halifax pizzeria Lou Pécou after the stem that holds a cluster of fruit, such as tomatoes, in the Provençal dialect. Growing up in his hometown of Marseilles, France, Toullec's grandmother taught him to pay special attention to the stems when buying produce at the market. A 'good pécou' was a telltale sign that the fruit was fresh and ripe. Toullec extended this attention to detail to the ingredients he uses at his pizzeria. He makes his naturally leavened dough with 100 per cent organic flour, and either sources toppings with care or prepares them in-house. Toullec said being named one of the world's best pizzaiolos was 'an unbelievable honour.' He added in an Instagram post , 'The story we're living is nothing short of incredible. We never imagined this would be possible for our little team and pizzeria in Halifax. But here we are proof that everything is possible with passion, dedication and countless hours of true labour of love.' Our website is the place for the latest breaking news, exclusive scoops, longreads and provocative commentary. Please bookmark and sign up for our cookbook and recipe newsletter, Cook This, here .

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