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19 November, 2008 |
HOW TO LIVE BEYOND 90
There are a few remote locations where not just a few people but most of the population lives well into their 90s and beyond.
Studies show that people in Okinawa, Japan; Sardinia, Italy; and the Caucasus Mountains in Russia all live exceptionally long, healthy lives.
A surprising number of them live to be not just 100, but 110, or even older.
So, what is it about these people? And what can we learn from them that could help us live longer, healthier lives too?
LIFESTYLE
(a) All three communities depend on farming, fishing, and game.
They spend a most of their time in the open air, which some have claimed is the secret to their longevity.
But in fact, the single most common factor among these various people groups is physical activity.
(b) All three of these long-lived communities boast strong social networks.
Various studies suggest that friendship, love, and social connections may hold clues to longevity and health for all of us.
Men may benefit more than women, however.
DIET
The agrarian lifestyle leads to diets that many have claimed are responsible for these groups' longevity.
John Robbins, author of Healthy at 100 thinks diet is key.
He notes that all statistically long-lived societies "eat fruits, vegetables, nuts, whole grains and other natural foods that are lower in calories, protein, sugar and fat" than packaged and processed foods we are so used to.
Omega-3 fatty acids and monounsaturated fats are more common in the diets of all three groups.
You can get these health-promoting fats come from fish, seeds, and olives.
GENETICS
Genetics is a third Lifestyle factor that will determine how long a person will live.
One researcher is even attempting to prove that in certain populations predisposed to long lives, inbreeding might actually be a good thing, as it possibly transfers a longevity gene.
Another interesting theory posits that in some individuals the immune system may adapt to aging.
It will likely be years, however, before researchers unpack the significance of these early findings.
ENJOY LIFE
One thing about health and longevity is clear.
Whether on the coast of Japan, in the mountains of Russia, or on the island of Sardinia, these amazingly long-lived people are enjoying life.
And that's a lesson we can all take to heart.
About the Author: Kathleen Bowers wrote Scarless Surgery, and What's in store in the Future. You can find her articles in www.body-philosophy.net.
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posted by Bernard Kelly @ 9:03 AM  |
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