In this episode, I talk about how I feel about old age. Is it just that I am approaching 50, or my training in nutrition? My attitude has changed over the years, and I now think about what I can do to help me (and my family) be healthier in old age.
Blue Zone Living
Dan Buettner, Blue Zones founder, discovered five places in the world. These are dubbed blue zones, where people live the longest, and are healthiest: Okinawa, Japan; Sardinia, Italy; Nicoya, Costa Rica; Ikaria, Greece, and Loma Linda, California.
They found that all blue zone areas share nine specific lifestyle habits that they call the Power 9.
It’s not just about food!
Health in long life is a lot about attitude and connection, as well as the food you eat and the environment you bathe your body in.
Purpose is key, and this is something that Dani from GLAS talks about in Episode 54 of the podcast. Connecting with friends and having a sense of life purpose can add 7 years to your life.
Another podcast was Dr Chatergee episode 112 with Dan Levitin. What struck a chord with me, is that he talks about attitude and mindset. Although running might help you live longer, if you don’t enjoy it then don’t do it!
What do I do?
I’m not perfect, and would never claim to be, but I have made positive changes over the years. I believe that small changes now, can be healthy tokens in the bank for later life. For example:
- Drinking plenty of water
- Reducing my caffeine and alcohol
- Minimising processed foods
- Maximising fresh, local, seasonal vegetables
- Lots of walking every day
My links
What do you think? Are there things that you are going to change to help you live healthier for a long life? Let me know!