Blue Zones: Lessons From the World’s Longest Lived — Paper Summary

Author: D Buettner

Date: 2016

Link: PDF

Note: There has been controversy regarding the data used to identify blue zones and the findings in this study. Advisable to read those before/after. See: Blue Zones Diet: Speculation Based on Misinformation

1. Blue zones: 5 places around the world where people consistently live over 100 years old.
2. The 5 Blue Zones:

• Okinawa, Japan
• Sardinia, Italy
• Nicoya, Costa Rica
• Ikaria, Greece
• Loma Linda, California, USA

3. The Danish Twin Study established that only about 20% of how long the average person lives is dictated by our genes, whereas the other 80% is dictated by our lifestyle.
4. The lifestyles of all Blue Zones residents shared 9 specific characteristics:
   • Moderate & regular physical activity
   • Life purpose
   • Stress reduction
   • Moderate caloric intake
   • Plant-based diet
   • Moderate alcohol intake, especially wine
   • Engagement in spirituality or religion
   • Engagement in family life
   • Engagement in social life
5. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the best investment in health is through policy.