California Town's Secret to Living Past 90

Loma Linda, California, stands out as a Blue Zone, where residents frequently surpass the age of 90, a decade longer than the national average.

This longevity is deeply influenced by the principles of the Seventh-day Adventist faith, which promotes a meat-free diet and emphasizes community.

Key lifestyle factors include a plant-forward diet rich in vegetables and legumes, avoidance of smoking and alcohol, regular exercise, and dedicated weekly rest.

These habits contribute to significantly lower risks of cancer, diabetes, and heart disease compared to broader populations.

Beyond diet, strong social support from the congregation and a shared sense of purpose are identified as crucial for mental well-being and a longer, healthier life.

Volunteerism, a core tenet, further enhances health and purpose, showing a link between helping others and personal longevity.

The community's emphasis on faith, communal gatherings, and a weekly Sabbath promotes stress reduction and connection.

This holistic approach, combining diet, community, and purpose, offers a blueprint for healthy aging.