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National Geographic
4 days ago
- Health
- National Geographic
What are ‘blue zones'? 5 places on Earth where the healthiest people live
These blue zones have unlocked the secret to long life. Here's what we can learn from them. Ogliastra in Sardinia, Italy, is one of five certified 'blue zones,' where citizens tend to live long and happy lives. Photograph By Christina Anzenberger-Fink & Ton/Anzenberger/Redux By National Geographic Staff If you live in 'blue zones,' there's a good chance you'll live to be 100. That's what National Geographic Explorer Dan Buettner found. Since 2004, Buettner has been studying places that not only have high concentrations of individuals over 100 years old, but also clusters of people who have grown old without health problems like heart disease, obesity, cancer, or diabetes. His findings launched books including, The Blue Zones Secrets for Living Longer: Lessons From the Healthiest Places on Earth, worldwide interest in these hot spots, and even a Netflix series, 'Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones.' So where are these 'blue zones,' what makes them so healthy, and what can we learn from them even if we don't live anywhere near one? Here's everything to know about blue zones. What defines a blue zone? Buettner's research has led him to identify five regions he's dubbed 'blue zones.' These are 'demographically confirmed, geographically defined' areas in the world where people are living to 100 at extraordinary rates—10 times greater than in the United States. They may be separated by great distances, but these certified blue zones share nine basic principles that researchers say contribute to long—and happy—lives. Among them are low-stress lifestyles that encourage regular movement, a strong sense of purpose, and a plant-based diet. (Here's how to lower stress in five minutes, according to science) In order to become a certified blue zone, an area must meet three sets of criteria: reliable documentation of birth and death rates, high national longevity compared to the rest of the world, and high local longevity. Where are the 5 blue zones? The five blue zones are located in Ikaria, Greece; Okinawa, Japan; Ogliastra Region, Sardinia, Italy; Loma Linda, California; and Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica. On the lush island of Okinawa, Japan, residents have strong social networks and a diet that prioritizes Okinawan sweet potato, turmeric, and bitter melon. Photograph By Markus Kirchgessner/laif/Redux The largest island in a subtropical archipelago controlled by Japan, Okinawa is home to the world's longest-lived women. Food staples like Okinawan sweet potatoes, soybeans, mugwort, turmeric, and goya (bitter melon) keep Okinawans living long and healthy lives. Buettner began his longevity research in Okinawa. (Learn why the traditional Okinawan diet is a recipe for long life) Located eight miles off the coast of Turkey in the Aegean Sea, Ikaria has some of the world's lowest rates of middle-age mortality and dementia. Research links the increased longevity of these Greek super-agers with the traditional Mediterranean diet, which is heavy in vegetables and healthy fats and contains smaller amounts of dairy and meat products. The mountainous highlands of Sardinia claim the world's highest concentration of centenarian men. Its population consumes a low-protein diet associated with lower rates of diabetes, cancer, and death for people under age 65. (Here are the many ways health actually improves as we age) One key element in the Blue Zones Diet is eating unprocessed foods, such as the homemade pasta prepared here with potato, pecorino cheese, and mint. Photograph By Andrea Frazetta, Nat Geo Image Collection Nicoya is located in a region of Central America with the world's lowest rate of middle-age mortality and the second highest concentration of male centenarians. The longevity secret here lies partly in strong faith communities, deep social networks, and habits of regular, low-intensity physical activity. The high concentration of Seventh-day Adventists in Loma Linda is credited with giving residents 10 more healthy years than the average American. Daily meals in this Los Angeles suburb follow a biblical diet of grains, fruits, nuts, and vegetables. (This American diet could add 10 years to your life) Residents of Loma Linda, California, engage in regular physical activity and eat a largely plant-based diet, which can lead to longer and healthier lives, according to the Adventist Health Study. Photograph by CALEB THAL, The New York Times/Redux What is the 'Blue Zones Diet'? Genetics play a key role in how long we live, but diet can be 'the entrance ramp for better health,' says Buettner. The Blue Zones Diet is built on the eating habits of blue zones citizens. About 95 percent of it is plant-based and 5 percent is animal based. That translates to a foundation of seasonal fruits and vegetables, plenty of beans and sweet potatoes, nuts, and whole grains. The diet encourages a reduction in meat, dairy, and fish. When people in blue zones do consume fish, they tend to go for smaller species that are not overfished, such as sardines and anchovies. It also follows the '80% rule,' which encourages people to stop eating when they feel mostly full. (Want a better high protein diet? You don't have to eat more meat) Many studies show that a blue zones diet can lead to better health and increased life expectancy. According to the Loma Linda University Adventist Health Study, which has been tracking thousands of participants since 1974, a pesco-vegetarian diet can lower the risk of death in the elderly by 18 percent. However, eating right is just part of the picture. After all, 'man does not live by bread alone.' The key to cultivating a long and healthy life may start with a good diet but builds on it with strong relationships and community. The good news is you don't have to live in a certified blue zone to reap the benefits. Editor's note: This story originally published on April 6, 2017. It was updated on July 15, 2025.
Daily Mirror
07-07-2025
- Health
- Daily Mirror
Longest-living people swear by 'Hara Hachi Bu' dieting trick
Unfortunately, this dietary rule is particularly unfavourable for those who want to eat three large meals daily Italy, Japan, and Costa Rica might appear very different on the surface, but they are actually connected by a surprising common trait. These countries boast three of the globe's six exclusive 'Blue Zones' where inhabitants are reportedly 10 times more likely to live to 100 than anywhere in the United States. However, not living in these longevity hubs isn't a reason to despair. A potentially game-changing key to the residents' long lives has recently been revealed—it's all about a strict practice called the '80% trick' or 'Hara Hachi Bu.' This dietary rule is particularly unfavourable for those who want to eat three large meals daily. People in Blue Zones usually have a small meal later in the day, deliberately stopping at about 80% fullness, hence the name of the rule. It's said this practice helps prevent the common 'food coma' feelings that can occur after overeating, while also enabling residents to stay active throughout the day. It is mainly practised by Okinawans on one of Japan's smallest islands, as noted by Blue Zones explorer Dan Buettner. According to a previous Mirror report, he wrote online: "The secret to eating in moderation in the long run is emulating the environment and habits of the Okinawan people. There is a significant calorie gap between when an American says, 'I'm full' and an Okinawan says, 'I'm no longer hungry'." Previous research suggests that they exist in a 'calorie deficit', consuming only 1,900 calories instead of the usual 2,000 to 2,500, which is associated with a reduced risk of diseases related to ageing. These views are echoed by Dr Deborah Lee, a GP at Dr Fox Pharmacy, too. She told the Mirror that eating less may even help to reduce ageing. "Imagine what 80% of your meal would look like, and aim to leave 20% behind," she said previously. "Calorie restriction is believed to slow the ageing process. Eating less lowers the metabolic rate. "With less metabolic processes underway, less oxidation is taking place. Oxidative stress probably underpins the development of many of the chronic diseases we see today – heart disease, cancer, type-2 diabetes and dementia." Dr Lee suggested that eating slowly can help one adhere to the 80% rule. Research supports this theory, with a 2012 study indicating that slower eating is associated with increased satisfaction and less hunger between meals. She continued: "Nutritionists believe that when you look at your plate, if you eat mindfully, eating slowly and chewing every mouthful thoroughly, you can feel satisfied by eating only 80% of that is on your plate. "The diet has many benefits. You don't have to count calories, and no foods are absolutely forbidden. It can fit in with your work and social schedule. You are still eating large amounts of healthy foods and getting good nutrition."
The Mainichi
23-06-2025
- Politics
- The Mainichi
Okinawa marks 80th anniversary of end of WWII ground battle
NAHA Japan (Kyodo) -- Okinawa on Monday observed the 80th anniversary of the end of a fierce World War II ground battle between Japan and the United States that took the lives of over 200,000 military personnel and residents. Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and Okinawa Gov. Denny Tamaki attended a service at the Peace Memorial Park in Itoman, where the final stage of the battle was fought. Another 342 names were added to the list of war dead inscribed on monuments, bringing the total to 242,567 people. The Battle of Okinawa from March through June 1945 in the Japanese southern island prefecture took a heavy toll on the local population, with one in four residents killed. After Japan's defeat, Okinawa was under U.S. administration until 1972 and it continues to host the bulk of U.S. forces in Japan. Anti-base sentiment runs deep due to noise, pollution and crimes committed by American service members, with a series of alleged sexual assault cases revealed recently fueling anger among local residents. Japan has been strengthening its defense capabilities in the prefecture in recent years as tensions grow with China over Taiwan and the nearby Senkaku Islands, a group of uninhabited islets controlled by Tokyo and claimed by Beijing, which calls them Diaoyu. The move has raised concern among Okinawans that their islands could again become the front line of conflict.
Kyodo News
23-06-2025
- Politics
- Kyodo News
Okinawa marks 80th anniversary of end of WWII ground battle
KYODO NEWS - 11 minutes ago - 11:52 | All, Japan, World Okinawa on Monday observed the 80th anniversary of the end of a fierce World War II ground battle between Japan and the United States that took the lives of over 200,000 military personnel and residents. Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and Okinawa Gov. Denny Tamaki attended a service at the Peace Memorial Park in Itoman, where the final stage of the battle was fought. Another 342 names were added to the list of war dead inscribed on monuments, bringing the total to 242,567 people. The Battle of Okinawa from March through June 1945 in the Japanese southern island prefecture took a heavy toll on the local population, with one in four residents killed. After Japan's defeat, Okinawa was under U.S. administration until 1972 and it continues to host the bulk of U.S. forces in Japan. Anti-base sentiment runs deep due to noise, pollution and crimes committed by American service members, with a series of alleged sexual assault cases revealed recently fueling anger among local residents. Japan has been strengthening its defense capabilities in the prefecture in recent years as tensions grow with China over Taiwan and the nearby Senkaku Islands, a group of uninhabited islets controlled by Tokyo and claimed by Beijing, which calls them Diaoyu. The move has raised concern among Okinawans that their islands could again become the front line of conflict.
Asahi Shimbun
09-06-2025
- General
- Asahi Shimbun
4 in Okinawa unexploded bomb disposal unit hurt in explosion
A perimeter fence around the Kadena Ammunition Storage Area in Yomitan, Okinawa Prefecture, on June 9 (Kazufumi Kaneko) Four Self-Defense Force members were slightly injured in an explosion on June 9 while handling unexploded bombs at a storage facility on Okinawa's main island. The injuries were the first for members of the 101st Explosive Ordnance Disposal Company of the Ground SDF's 15th Brigade, which deals with at least one request per day for removing unexploded ordnance left from World War II. The explosion occurred around 11:15 a.m. at a temporary depot for unexploded bombs inside the U.S. military's Kadena Ammunition Storage Area, which straddles Yomitan village, Okinawa city, Kadena town and other municipalities, a Defense Ministry official said. The four suffered minor injuries, including burns on their fingers, which were not considered life-threatening. At the time of the explosion, the unit members were scraping rust off unexploded bombs and engaged in other work at the depot, which is managed by the Okinawa prefectural government. The Kadena Ammunition Storage Area, which spans about 2,600 hectares, includes an SDF training area and munitions depot, as well as facilities used by the prefectural government, an electric power company and other parties. The 101st Explosive Ordnance Disposal Company, based in the prefectural capital of Naha, defuses unexploded bombs at the sites when necessary and brings them to the depot. Okinawa, Japan's southwestern island prefecture, was the site of a fierce ground battle against the United States in the closing months of the Pacific War. It is estimated that more than 1,800 tons of unexploded bombs still remain buried at the end of 2023. Okinawa accounted for about 52 percent of all unexploded bombs that were disposed of around the country in fiscal 2023. Unexploded ordnance detonations have continued to plague Okinawans. While Okinawa was under U.S. administration through 1971, 704 people were killed by explosions and other accidents. Four people, including a small child, were killed and 34 others were injured when an unexploded bomb detonated during sewerage work in Naha in 1973. Two elementary school pupils suffered burns from an explosion in the southern part of Okinawa's main island in 1975. In 2009, a construction worker was seriously injured in an accident in Itoman in the prefecture.
