Dan Buettner’s research on Blue Zones, the five regions in the world where people live the longest and healthiest lives, has sparked a lot of interest. In an interview with Sunday Times, Buettner discussed the key factors that contribute to longevity and what we can learn from centenarians.
Buettner emphasized that there is no magic pill or fountain of youth that can guarantee long, healthy lives. Instead, it takes multiple small changes to create an environment that supports healthy living. He identified nine common factors, known as the Power9, that have helped people in Blue Zones like Okinawa, Sardinia, and Loma Linda live to 100 and beyond.
The Power9 include moving naturally, finding purpose in life, managing stress through routines, practicing mindful eating, adopting a plant-based diet, drinking alcohol moderately, being part of a faith-based community, prioritizing family, and surrounding oneself with a supportive social circle.
When asked about the misconception that people can skip the gym and eat carbs to live long if they have good friends to hang out with, Buettner clarified that it’s about reframing our approach. He explained that our bodies need natural movement throughout the day, rather than relying on a gym routine. Additionally, not all carbs are unhealthy, and cultivating a group of healthy friends who engage in outdoor activities and enjoy plant-based meals can be more beneficial.
Regarding the rising rates of lifestyle diseases in India, Buettner suggested that short-term changes should start at an individual level. This includes eating meals as a family without distractions, incorporating plant-based items in cooking, and keeping unhealthy snacks out of sight. Long-term changes, such as creating walkable and bikeable cities, would require support from local governments and employers.
Buettner explained that the term “Blue Zones” originated from the blue pen used to draw circles on the map while identifying regions with the highest concentration of male centenarians. It was not a deliberate choice, but the term stuck.
Buettner also discussed the resistance he faced while trying to recreate the Blue Zone environment in the United States. He highlighted the importance of personal choice and explained that the aim was not to take away options but to provide healthier alternatives. The focus was on creating an environment where the healthy choice is the easy choice.
In the documentary, Buettner states that if someone in the US is obese and ill, their surroundings are partly to blame. He explained that self-discipline and control are not enough, as they fatigue over time. Diets, exercise programs, and supplements have a high rate of failure because people lose motivation and discipline. Buettner emphasized the need to set up an environment that promotes health and wellness, rather than relying solely on individual efforts.
Buettner also mentioned Singapore as a Blue Zone 2.0. He commended the government’s efforts in implementing policies that discourage smoking, subsidize healthy foods, and provide parks and public spaces. Singapore’s success in creating a healthier environment in a short time frame demonstrates that similar changes are possible in urban settings.