Have you ever heard of “blue zones?" Maybe, like me, you’ve run across a documentary about them. The term “blue zone” was coined by a National Geographic Explorer named Dan Buettner and has come to identify specific regions of the world where people have the highest life expectancy or areas with the highest ratio of people who live to 100 years of age. There are just five of these communities that have been identified across the globe, and one is right here in the United States. Loma Linda, California, is a Seventh-Day Adventist community whose lifestyle choices likely play a role in their lengthier lifespans.

In identifying and designating blue zones, Buettner and his team studied pockets of the world’s population who not only live longer but enjoy a high quality of life even in their old age.

These communities have some commonalities, sharing several key lifestyle factors.

At the core of America’s blue zone is a community of approximately 9,000 members of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Loma Linda, California. Their lifestyle results in extraordinary longevity, with individuals living up to 10 years longer than everyone else in North America. What are they doing right that the average American isn’t?

They don’t smoke, don’t drink alcohol, eat in moderation, and drink plenty of water. They try to maintain a healthy Body Mass Index (BMI), resulting in lower blood pressure and cholesterol, and fewer heart disease factors.

A healthy, plant-centered diet may be a reason for their longevity. Many residents follow a mainly vegetarian diet, with a heavy focus on fruits, vegetables, nuts, and grains, all of which seem to protect against various cancers.

Some eat meat or fish – but in small portions. Heavier meals are eaten earlier in the day, followed by a light dinner to promote better sleep and a lower BMI.

In addition to healthy eating patterns, a routine of consistent, low-intensity exercise – as simple as walking every day – helps reduce the risk of things like cancer and heart disease.

A weekly day of rest provides a break from the stresses of everyday life. Taking regular time to focus on family, time with friends, and nature relieves stress and strengthens social bonds, as well as providing opportunities to exercise.

Residents also find that spending time with others who share and support their values and habits contributes to their well-being.

Volunteering is also common in Loma Linda, California. Residents of all ages are able to enjoy a sense of purpose, and focusing on others may help ward off depression.

We can learn a lot from Loma Linda, in terms of longevity, but how does it compare to other Blue Zones?

One in three residents of Ikaria, Greece, lives to be at least 90 years old. Residents value family, community, and a slower pace of life; smoking is rare, and their diet is fruit and vegetable-heavy. Residents of other blue zones share similar plant-based diets, focus on community, and stay active.

The study of blue zones does not deny the part that genes play in a long life, and researchers agree that only those with the right genes actually live past the age of 100. That being said, there is no denying the benefits and longer life expectancy that come along with what has been dubbed the “Blue Zones Lifestyle.” Have you heard of these blue zone studies? We would love to hear your thoughts in the comments. Learn more on the Blue Zones website.

Community and camaraderie are a big part of life in the blue zone. Want a fun way to bond with family and friends and create great memories? Check out the cool activities from The Adventure Challenge!