The secrets of long life

How to live to 100?

My girlfriend and I have a very small part-time job once a week (usually Saturday afternoon / evening). It only takes us about an hour to finish, and although I’d like to pretend that I do my fair share; I probably spend most of that hour reading the magazines in the reception area. The last time we were there I noticed this article in the National Geographic about the secrets of long life. 

     Apparently, a long healthy life is no accident: "It begins with good genes, but it also depends on good habits. If you adopt the right lifestyle, experts say, chances are you may live up to a decade longer!"  In trying to find the formula for success researchers fanned out across the globe to find the secret of long life. Scientists focused on several regions where people live significantly longer.  

     The areas are: Sardinia in Italy, Okinawa in Japan and Loma Linda in California (7th Day Adventists)." The people from these areas have a high rate of centenarians, suffer a fraction of the diseases that commonly kill people and enjoy more healthy years of life. In sum, they offer three sets of “best practices” to emulate: 

Sardinians - Drink red wine (in moderation). Share the work burden with spouse. Eat pecorino cheese (and other omega-3 foods).

7th Day Adventists - Eat nuts and beans. Observe the Sabbath. Have faith. Okinawans keep lifelong friends. Eat small portions. Find purpose in life.

ALL: Don’t smoke. Put family first. Try to be active every day. Keep socially engaged. Eat fruits, vegetables and whole grains.