The key factors contributing to the longevity and health of the world's longest-lived populations include:
- Whole-food, plant-based diets: These diets are low in calories and high in good carbohydrates, whole grains, vegetables, and fruits, with minimal processed or refined foods.
- Regular physical activity: Incorporating exercise into daily life, such as farming or walking, maintains physical fitness.
- Social support and relationships: Strong community bonds, family ties, and positive relationships contribute to mental and emotional well-being.
- Low stress levels: A peaceful and harmonious lifestyle with minimal conflict and stress.
- Low obesity rates: These populations generally maintain a healthy weight, reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
Their lifestyles differ from those in Western societies in several ways:
- Diet: Western diets are typically higher in calories, processed foods, and animal products, leading to higher obesity rates and chronic diseases.
- Physical activity: Western societies are more sedentary, with less physical activity incorporated into daily life.
- Social connections: Western societies often have weaker community bonds and higher levels of stress, impacting mental health.
- Lifestyle: The longer-lived populations have a slower pace of life, with more time spent on social activities and less on materialism.