Ever wondered why some people live well into their 90s and 100s with barely a wrinkle in their health?
The answer may lie in "blue zones" — five unique regions in the world where people live longer and healthier lives than anywhere else on Earth.
Here are the 10 most important lifestyle habits from these extraordinary communities.
A plant-based diet is the foundation
People in blue zones eat mostly plants — about 95 % of their diet comes from vegetables, fruits, legumes, and whole grains.
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Meat, dairy, and processed foods are rarely consumed, and when fish is on the menu, it’s typically small, sustainably caught species like sardines and anchovies.
Movement is built into daily life
Forget gyms or intense workouts. In blue zones, people stay active naturally through gardening, walking, and household chores.
Gentle, daily movement keeps their bodies fit and their minds sharp — without the stress of formal exercise routines.
Purpose gives life meaning
Having a reason to wake up every morning adds years to life.
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Whether it's a job, caring for family, volunteering, or pursuing passions, people in blue zones live with intention.
That strong sense of purpose is closely tied to longevity and happiness.
Stress is kept to a minimum
Residents of blue zones have daily habits that help lower stress. In Ikaria, people nap; in Okinawa, they reflect quietly.
Small rituals, rest periods, and meaningful social time protect their mental health and reduce chronic inflammation — a major aging factor.
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They stop eating before they're full
One of the key rules in Okinawa is the "80% rule" — stop eating when you feel just about full.
This simple practice helps prevent overeating, supports a healthy weight, and lowers the risk of age-related diseases.
Strong social circles
In blue zones, close friendships and family ties are essential.
In Okinawa, many people belong to lifelong support groups called "moai". These deep social bonds provide emotional support, reduce isolation, and are proven to increase life expectancy.
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Faith and community matter
In Loma Linda, California, a large population of Seventh-day Adventists follows a lifestyle rooted in faith, community, and health.
Their religious routines, including regular rest days and communal meals, are linked to up to 10 extra years of healthy life.
Minimal animal products
Diets in blue zones include very little meat and dairy.
In Sardinia and Ikaria, for example, people rely on plant-based meals with minimal animal protein — a habit associated with lower risks of cancer, diabetes, and heart disease.
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Fresh, local, unprocessed food
Blue zone residents avoid processed food altogether.
Meals are based on local, seasonal ingredients, often home-cooked and passed down through generations — like Sardinian handmade pasta or Okinawan sweet potatoes.
It’s clean eating in its purest form.
Environments that promote activity
Many blue zones are located in hilly or mountainous regions, like Sardinia and Ikaria, where walking uphill is a part of daily life.
Combined with a natural lifestyle and outdoor living, this environment keeps people physically active without trying.
Artiklen er baseret på informationer fra National Geographic.