Why everyone's talking about the blue zones for longevity and healthy ageing

Introducing the blue zones 

The blue zones are a set of 5 small regions that have one remarkable quality in common. These towns have the highest number of centenarians. So if you live here, your chances of living to 100 years old - and in good health - is ten times higher than the average. 

So what can we learn about the daily habits of these people. What's the secret to the blue zones for longevity, health, and happiness?

Let's find out.

8 healthy habits of the blue zones

1. High-fibre intake. You guessed it! Legumes, nuts, wholegrains, fruits, and green veggies make up the backbone of the diet for people in the blue zones. Fibre reduces the risk of many chronic diseases associated with ageing, like heart disease, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, colon cancer, and dementia.

2. Natural movement. Sorry bros. You won't find anyone in the blue zones lifting weights in the gym. Instead, they enjoy movement from everyday activities, like gardening, walking, hiking, and farming.

3. The 80% rule. People in the blue zones tend to avoid overeating. Okinawans, for example, follow the principle "eat until you're 80% full" encouraging more mindful eating practices.  

4. Healthy fats. In line with the Mediterranean diet, people in the blue zone consume plenty of oily fish, extra virgin olive oil, nuts, seeds, and avocado. 

5. Little bits of wine. Still a contraversial one, but many adults in the blue zones enjoy one to two glasses of wine with friends and family. 

6. Social networks. Centenarians in blue zones have well-connected social circles, and is particularly important for psychological and physical well-being as we age. 

7. Stress management. The world's longest-living people are aware of the effects of stress. They actively engage in activities that help manage stress, such as napping, socialising with friends, and meditating.

8. Sense of purpose. Ikigai in Okinawa, and plan de vida in Nicoya translates to "why I wake up in the morning". People in the blue zones move through life with intention, purpose, and gratitude. Sounds nice, right?

Not heading to the Blue Zones anytime soon?

Like us, you're probably booking the 7pm Gatwick flight to Sardinia right now. But if not, no worries. With myota, you can live the blue zones for longevity life right here in the UK. Prebiotic fibres found in myota help lower blood sugar and cholesterol levels, regulate appetite, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and colon cancer. Importantly, our blends are formulated to reduce systemic inflammation and restore gut microbiome health - two key pillars of the ageing process.