What are the top five Blue Zones?

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If you haven’t heard of the Blue Zones, they are regions in the world where people live longer-than-average lives. These five regions made it to the top of the list, where people live to be more than 100 years old! See why these top five Blue Zones are booming with centenarians.

Okinawa, Japan

Home to the longest-living women in the world, Okinawa’s secret to a long life is dedication to friends and family, giving the women there strong social networks and sense of purpose.

A typical diet of an Okinawan diet includes a lot of soy and they partake in daily gardening, which increases their exercise and lowers stress.

Sardinia, Italy

An active group, Sardinians hunt, fish and harvest food together; walking a few miles a day to manage animals and crops.

Friends and family play an important role, too, with daily interactions — including a glass or two of red wine and lots of laughs. They keep their older family members close, who primarily eat a plant-based diet.

Nicoya, Costa Rica

With a focus on family, active social networks and light meals in the evening, the residents of Nicoya maintain active life styles that help keep them physically active. They work under a lot of sunlight, giving them lots of Vitamin D.

Costa Ricans are known for being friendly. They respect one another and welcome transplants from all over the world.

Ikaria, Greece

On this small island, the people experience an isolated culture that boasts family values and rich traditions. Like Sardinia, Ikarians enjoy a daily glass or two of red wine and fun with friends.

They live a slower-paced life and maintain a Mediterranean diet of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, potatoes, olive oil and fish. Also included in their daily habits are taking regular naps and drinking herbal teas.

Loma Linda, California

In Loma Linda, you will find the highest concentration of Seventh-day Adventists in the U.S. Many of whom follow a strict vegetarian diet, which primarily includes nuts, fruits, vegetables and whole grains. They do not partake in smoking or drinking alcohol.

As an active church, the Adventists in Loma Linda are dedicated to their community and spend each Saturday focusing on religion, family and nature.