Residents of one island in Italy live on average over 100 years, recording a high life expectancy compared to other populations worldwide and even residents of other cities in Italy. A report published by the American network "CNBC" stated that the main reason for the high life expectancy on the island of Sardinia is the lifestyle and diet of its inhabitants.
The report noted that Sardinia in Italy is one of the five "blue zones" in the world, places where a large number of residents live to be 100 years or more. For these vibrant seniors in Sardinia, what they eat plays a significant role in prolonging their lives. However, experts quoted by CNBC indicated that you do not need to live in Italy to enjoy these health benefits; you can live like them wherever you are.
The main characteristics of the lifestyle and diet of Sardinians can be summarized in four aspects:
1. **Diet Composition**: The Sardinian food list includes vegetables, salads, bean soup with beans, chickpeas, and tomatoes, along with goat and sheep dairy products known for their anti-inflammatory properties and their ability to lower bad cholesterol levels. Sardinians also consume distinctive flatbread made from high-protein, low-gluten ancient grains, which is a primary ingredient in Italian pasta. Additionally, they enjoy milk thistle tea, believed to cleanse the liver, daily.
2. **Portion Control**: Sardinians love to cook but take the time to enjoy the sounds of chopping onions, mincing garlic, and crushing fresh tomatoes for flavorful sauces. If working full-time, they dedicate weekends to cooking or meal prep for two or three days during the week.
3. **Stay Active**: Sardinians remain active throughout the day, tending to their sheep, milking goats, foraging for wild greens, cooking, cleaning, and gardening. While you might not be herding sheep or searching for mushrooms, you can still find ways to keep active throughout your day.
The report concludes with the recommendation: "If you sit in front of a computer all day, set a timer on your phone or smartwatch for intervals of 30 to 45 minutes to remind you to get up and stretch, or walk. Merging more movement into your routine can help boost your mood."
