Jessica Roy reports for National Geographic on Bolotana, a small village in Sardinia, where a high proportion of residents live to 100–indeed, an 11 times greater proportion than in the US. Bolotana is what some call a “blue zone.” What is it about the place that leads to such a high proportion of people living long lives?
The overwhelming percentage of the Bolotana population lives on a plant-based diet. They typically eat meat just five times a month. They eat a lot of cheese, olive oil and wheat, all of which they make. They also eat beans and pastas. They eat no fast foods whatsoever.
Of note, people in Bolotana don’t go to the gym. There is no gym in Bolotana. But, the terrain is steep and there are no cars, so the residents get a workout naturally. In addition, the generations live together, so the older members of the family have built-in support. And, they have the joys of being surrounded by children and those they love.
What’s particularly interesting about Bolotana is that the proportion of older people is growing. While Okinawa, Japan and Ikaria, Greece have a high proportion of older people and are also what are known as “blue zones,” their numbers are shrinking.
Here’s more from Just Care:
- Strength training promotes longevity
- Blue Zones: Do they really promote long lives?
- Skip the keto diet, go Mediterranean
- You’re never too old to run
- Optimism reduces risk of dementia
