Nutrition Tips with Julia O’Loughlin, RHN
I recently read an interesting book, “The Blue Zones” by Dan Buettner. The book investigates the areas of the world with the highest populations of people who have lived past their 100th birthday. See below for a list of common factors Buettner observed in these populations and believes to be the secrets to longevity.
- Calcium and magnesium
- Eating a light dinner
- Engaging in daily physical activity
- Maintaining social networks
- Moderate sun exposure
- Having a sense of purpose (reason to get up in the morning)
- Omega 3
- Goat’s milk
- Polyphenols, flavanoids and antioxidants
- Plant-based diet
- Consumption of seasonal, local foods
- Whole grains
- Engaging in ritual
- Focusing on family
- Laughing often
- Spending time with like-minded people
- Having sacred time
- Eating less meat and more nuts
- Giving something back to the community
