Secrets of Longevity from Around the World

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Secrets of Longevity from Around the World
The Shores of Lake Phalen

When it comes to secrets, people love to be in the know. Having access to information that many others lack is undeniably appealing. It makes you feel clever, informed, and connected, and it can also be incredibly useful. After all, once you are aware of a secret, you have the opportunity to put the information that you’ve garnered to good use. Could learning secrets of longevity from around the world extend and improve your life?

Uncovering Secrets of Longevity from Around the World

While the United States is a wealthy, technologically advanced country with a proud history of innovation, its population is not blessed with exceptional longevity. In fact, when the World Health Organization assembled a list of life expectancies around the globe, the U.S. didn’t even crack the top 30. Clearly, Americans who want to live longer, healthier lives would be smart to look at other countries for inspiration. What sort of insights might someone interested in secrets of longevity from around the world discover?

Japan

If you’d like to meet a centenarian, consider paying a visit to Okinawa in Japan. The communities here are home to the greatest proportion of people with triple-digit ages in the world. Why do so many seniors thrive here? In addition to a diet rich in fresh fish and vegetables, locals adhere to “hara hachi bu,” a long-trusted adage that encourages people to avoid overeating, obesity, and the health hazards that accompany it by eating until they are 80 percent full. Seniors also tend to stay involved in their community, remain physically active, and participate in stress-relieving cultural activities.

Iceland

Although winters can be long and bleak in Iceland, residents there have incredibly low rates of depression. The secret might be the multitude of omega-3 fatty acids found in their diet of fish and other healthy staples. After all, omega-3s are great for brain and cardiovascular health. The antioxidants found in the black tea, vegetables, wild berries, and whole grains that Icelanders favor also help support wellness.

Italy

In Italy, a plant-based diet that uses meat as an accent rather than a main course is common, and the pleasant climate makes walking both a pleasure and a common activity, but the secret to longevity here might be the culture. A highly social environment that encourages strong family ties, respect for elders, friendly gatherings, and a positive attitude can help people of all ages thrive.

Greece

The advantages of the Mediterranean diet are no secret. Many experts have pointed out that routinely eating heart-healthy dishes made with staples like virgin olive oil, greens, lentils, herbs, and whole grains does a body good. However, there are other habits that might contribute to the longevity of seniors living here. Walking to work and social engagements provides gentle exercise and napping can reduce both cardiovascular risks and stress levels.

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Exploring secrets of longevity from around the world is fascinating, and certain themes appear repeatedly. Residents of areas that are noted for the longevity of their populations generally have lifestyles that encourage them to be physically active. They also tend to favor healthy diets that emphasize plant-based foods over red meats. Strong links with their families and communities are another common factor. In addition, cultures in areas where seniors thrive generally promote positive attitudes and activities that can help manage stress. The fact that these themes occur over and over again suggests that these insights just might be able to offer more than intellectual benefits for curious minds. Could incorporating some of these tips into your own lifestyle improve your health, happiness, and life span?

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