You may have heard of areas in the world where it is common for people to live well into their 100s and in good health. From Okinawa, Japan, Sardinia, Italy, to Costa Rica, Greece, and others, people living in these zones are living longer, healthier lives. So, what is their secret? Do they simply have better genes than the rest of us? Maybe not. Interestingly, a Danish population-based Twin Study on health in the elderly discovered that genetics only account for about 20% to 30% of longevity factors. DNA is not your destiny!
We spoke to Ann Louise, Ph.D., CNS, who studied these Super Agers, and told us about the latest, cutting-edge research that reveals the best-kept secrets for expanding your youth span” Continually breaking new ground in traditional and holistic health, she has just written the book “Radical Longevity” to talk about it all. Here’s what she told us about healthy aging.
Ann Louise Gittleman, Ph.D., CNS, is internationally recognized as a pioneer in dietary, environmental, and women’s health issues and is known as “The First Lady of Nutrition” among her millions of followers worldwide. She is also an award-winning New York Times bestselling author of over 35 books on health and nutrition, including her latest book, Radical Longevity, which offers a new view of aging – one that defies conventional wisdom and redefines the aging process no matter if you’re 20 or 100 years old. Ann Louise holds an M.S. in Nutrition Education from Columbia University, has the title of Certified Nutrition Specialist (C.N.S.) from the American College of Nutrition, and has a Ph.D. in Holistic Nutrition.
Here’s What Those Who Live Past 100 Years Old Have in Common
Super Agers tend to have a few things in common, and it’s not just about their genetics. We’ve gathered several tips to living a long, healthy life and they’re all about exercise, eating healthy, and being social. The most surprising actually happens to be that drinking may also lead to a longer life. Here are the things that people who live longer than 100 years old tend to have in common.
- They stop eating when they feel about 80% full. They also eat more slowly and enjoying meals as a time to pause and relax during the day.
- Their diets are rich in healing oils like olive, avocado, and macadamia. They’re also high in legumes and nuts, and loaded with fresh veggies. So, as mom used to say, “Eat your veggies!” – especially broccoli and beets.
- Another common thread among Super Agers is their ability to enjoy life. They eat and drink alcohol in moderation and within a strong social circle.
