These days, the average human life expectancy hovers around 77 years, but in the so-called “blue zones”, the life span is much longer.
The inhabitants of the Blue Zones, which include Sardinia, Icaria, Okinawa, Nicoya and Loma Linda, have lived for more than 100 years.
According to Eat This Not That, it’s hard to find processed drinks like soda, sweetened juice, and sports drinks in a resident’s fridge, according to Al Arabiya.net.
But some of the following healthy drinks are easily accessible, many of which are packed with disease-fighting antioxidants and other essential health-promoting nutrients, as follows:
1. Water
In all blue zones, it is common to serve water with meals – as well as drink it now and then throughout the day.
In this regard, Natalie Komova, a dietitian, says: “Water is necessary to live longer because it helps the body to eliminate toxins, maintain normal blood pressure and increase metabolism,” noting that “drinking an adequate amount of water daily can improve body functions.” and increases lifespan in the long run.
The CDC also reported that water helps protect the spinal cord, lubricates the joints, and ensures the body maintains a normal temperature. Scientific research has also found that mineral water helps promote bone health and is beneficial in digestion.
2. Coffee
“Coffee beans are packed with antioxidants, polyphenols, and other anti-inflammatory factors that are linked to longevity and reduced risk of chronic disease,” says Dana Ellis Hoeness, chief medical officer at UCLA Medical Center and author of the new book Recipe For Survival.
Sardinians, Icarians and Nicoyans are all known daily coffee drinkers.
A 2018 study found that regular coffee consumption is linked to a reduced risk of death from cardiovascular disease and stroke, plus it may protect against type 2 diabetes and obesity.
Research has also revealed that chronic coffee consumption can protect against some neurodegenerative diseases and is associated with lower risks of liver disease and cancer.
But it’s important to note that adding sugar, cream, or flavored juices to a cup of coffee can negate its health benefits.
3 – Green tea Green
tea is a daily staple in many blue areas, especially Okinawa, according to Dana Ellis Hoeness.
In turn, Komova stresses that “green tea is rich in antioxidants and polyphenols, which prevent diseases by regulating cholesterol, stabilizing blood pressure and promoting cell division.”
Also, a 2007 study published in Nutrition Reviews found that green tea consumption was associated with overall cardiovascular health, while another scientific review, published in 2017 in Phytomedicine, discovered a possible link between green tea consumption. and improve memory.
A 2013 study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition established that drinking green tea can reduce blood sugar levels, helping prevent the development of type 2 diabetes.
Meanwhile, epigallocatechin gallate, a specific type of antioxidant in green tea, can help prevent cancer tumor growth, according to findings from a 2011 study published in the Cancer Metastasis Review.
4 – Black
tea Green tea is getting a lot of attention due to its antioxidant content, but that doesn’t diminish the importance of black tea, which research has shown can offer many of the same disease-fighting benefits.
Studies have shown that black tea can promote longevity in several different ways, including lowering blood sugar levels, decreasing the risk of heart disease, improving cholesterol, and helping maintain a healthy gut by promoting good bacteria, inhibiting the growth of bad, reducing blood pressure, and preventing the spread of breast cancer tumors. and reduce the risk of stroke.
Experts advise drinking black tea without any added sweeteners and if a person wants to enhance the flavour, they can add a little lemon juice or some fresh mint.
