These small tweaks can add up to big longevity benefits.
In the United States, the life expectancy isjust over 79 years.
But how can you make those healthy, happy years?
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Dan Buettner, founder of the Blue Zones philosophy and research, has a few tips.
The Blue Zones idea is less about research and more about a dynamic lifestyle.
That said, there are a few things that remain consistent across the board.
This means to stop eating when you are no longer hungry, instead of when you are feeling stuffed.
Snack on nuts
One food commonly eaten in several Blue Zones communities isnuts.
In fact, they are one of thebest foods you’re able to eat for your heart health.
Instead, residents eatbeansas a source of filling and nutritious protein.
Not to mention, they’re incredibly budget-friendly and versatile.
Learnhow to cook dried beansto add even more flavor.
This might have been tending to a garden or livestock animals or walking to run errands.
It helps you build in more physical activity while hardly realizing it.
We have a few genius vegetarian recipes that swap in vegetables for meat to help inspire you.
To help you reap the benefits, schedule regular social time with a few close friends.
Rather than what you do, the more important piece is being consistent to help strengthen your social relationships.
Many people simply describe it as a reason to get out of bed in the morning.
Maybe this is tending to a garden, having a pet or knitting.
It might be taking care of extended family or volunteering within your community.
So long as it’s something that feels fulfilling to you, that’s what is important.
To help build this into your daily life, invite family and friends into parts of your healthy lifestyle.
Make a plant-based meal together or go for a walk at a local park.
This includes red wine in Sardinia, Italy and Ikaria, Greece, and brandy in Okinawa.
Plus, some research has even found somehealth benefits to drinking wine, thanks to antioxidants like resveratrol.
But the Blue Zones communities are the most consistent in the world at reaching triple digits.
Try adding one (or several) of these small tweaks into your routine to reap the benefits.
