Recently, life expectancy in the United States has reached about 77 years, but it is considerably longer in the so-called “blue zone”. In fact, it is not uncommon for citizens of these regions, such as Sardinia, Icaria, Okinawa, Nikoya and Loma Linda, to live over the age of 100. So, needless to say, if you’re trying to extend your life. You’ll want to get one or two clues from your eating and drinking habits.
It can be difficult to find processed beverages such as sodas, sugared juices and sports drinks in the refrigerators of blue zone residents. But what you’ll find are some of the delicious drinks below-many of which are packed with antioxidants and other important health-promoting nutrients that fight the disease. Looking for more blue zone diet tips? Check out the nine foods that the longest-lived people in the world eat every day.
In all blue zones, it is common to provide water at meal times. In addition, drink water throughout the day.
“Water is essential for longevity because it helps the body eliminate toxins, maintain normal blood pressure, transport nutrients, balance electrolytes, and increase metabolism,” said Natalie Comova, Just CBD. MS and RD say. “Drinking plenty of water every day improves your body’s functioning and prolongs your life in the long run.”
According to the Mayo Clinic, about 50% to 70% of your body is made up of water. Not only that, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that it helps protect the spinal cord, smooth joints, cushion, and keep the body at normal temperatures.
Of course, not all drinking water is made the same. For example, in Nicoya, a peninsula on the coast of Costa Rica, water tends to be very high in calcium and magnesium, which strengthen bones. Studies show that mineral water not only promotes bone health, but also helps digestion.
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“Coffee beans are rich in antioxidants, polyphenols and other anti-inflammatory agents, may have a long lifespan and a low risk of chronic disease,” said a new book at the Senior RD of the UCLA Medical Center. The author, Dana Ellis Hunnes, said. Survival recipe..
Sardinians, Ikarians, and Nikoyans are all known to drink Java every day. 2018 survey Advances in cardiovascular disease found Habitual coffee consumption is associated with reduced risk of cardiovascular death, coronary heart disease, congestive heart failure, and stroke— The same is true for improving some cardiovascular risk factors, such as type 2 diabetes and obesity. Not only that, studies have shown that chronic coffee consumption may prevent some neurodegenerative diseases and is associated with a lower risk of liver disease and cancer.
However, it is important to note that adding a pile of sugar, cream, or flavored syrup to your drink can offset the health benefits of coffee. Drink in black, just like people in the blue zone. Or, if it tastes too bitter or acidic to you, just add a splash of almond or oat milk.
If you firmly believe that wine enhances a delicious meal, there is some good news. Residents of the Blue Zone, especially those of Sardinia and Icaria, are not prone to robbing one or two glasses of high quality dry red. Specifically, Sardinians are known to enjoy the red color of the area called Kanonau, which boasts two to three times the flavonoids. It is an antioxidant that helps the body dodge everyday toxins and other potentially harmful molecules.
According to Komova, red wine contains large amounts of resveratrol. It is an antioxidant that helps lower the levels of “bad” LDL cholesterol, reduce inflammation, and prevent damage to blood vessels.
Even better, the journal’s 2018 study sick We found that there was a link between moderate alcohol intake and a reduced risk of death, with 1-2 drinks a day having the lowest mortality rate.
However, keep in mind that when it comes to drinking wine, there are many less. Beyond one cup a day as a woman or two cups as a man, health risks can begin to outweigh the benefits.
“Moderate drinking may have health benefits, but alcohol can also worsen certain health conditions,” said RD Jeanette Kimszal. “Also, the quality of alcohol in the blue zone may be better than in the United States, where wine may contain preservatives and additives that can affect the intestinal flora. “
According to Hunnes, tea is a staple of daily diets in many blue zones, especially Okinawa, where you can find residents caring for large amounts of green tea all day long.
“Green tea is high in catechins and polyphenols, which have antioxidant properties that fight free radicals, regulate cholesterol, stabilize blood pressure, and promote cell division to prevent disease,” says Comova. .. “All these benefits extend your life.”
One study in 2007 Nutrition review Green tea consumption was found to be associated with improved overall cardiovascular health, but another 2017 review found it. Plant medicine We have found a potential link between green tea consumption and improved memory.
2013 study as an additional bonus American Journal of Clinical Nutrition We have found that drinking green tea can significantly lower fasting blood sugar levels and may help prevent the development of type 2 diabetes. On the other hand, epigallocatechin gallate, a particular type of antioxidant found in green tea, may help control the growth of cancer tumors, according to a 2011 study. Cancer metastasis review..
Are you trying to limit the consumption of caffeine? You can still enjoy many of the health benefits of tea. Inspired by Ikarians, enjoy an herbal blend of anti-inflammatory rosemary, dandelions and wild sage. Or try Milk Thistle Tea, a popular Sardinian product. It is believed to purify the liver.
Green tea may be the most noticeable in its antioxidant content, but don’t underestimate the power of black tea. Studies have shown that it can offer many of the benefits of fighting the same illness.
Studies have shown that black tea can be used in a variety of ways, including lowering blood pressure levels, reducing the risk of heart disease, improving cholesterol, promoting good bacteria and controlling the growth of bad bacteria to maintain a healthy gut, and reducing blood. You can extend the life with. It prevents blood pressure, the spread of breast cancer tumors, and reduces the risk of stroke.
To enjoy all of these benefits without the potential pitfalls, drink tea as you would a native in the blue zone. Do not add sweeteners. If you want to enhance the flavor, try adding lemon squeeze or fresh mint.
