The oldest town in the United States has a life expectancy of 90 years: strict nutrition and rest
A lifestyle that defies time.
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In southern California, about 100 kilometers from Los Angeles, is Loma Linda, a town that has gained the reputation of being the longest-lived community in the United States. In this place, residents reach an average life expectancy of 90 years, surpassing the national average by more than a decade.
Their eating habits, focus on rest and a life philosophy focused on well-being have made this town a case study for longevity researchers in the United States and the world. Loma Linda is one of the five "blue zones" on the planet, a term coined by researcher Dan Buettner to refer to regions where people live longer and healthier lives.
While in other parts of the country cardiovascular diseases and obesity are growing problems, in this small California community, residents manage to stay active into old age. One of the key factors in the longevity of the city's residents is their diet. Most follow a plant-based diet, consisting mainly of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and nuts.
Meat and ultra-processed products have little presence in their daily lives, which has shown to have a positive impact on their health. Many of the residents of the Californian town belong to the Seventh-day Adventist community, a religious group that promotes a healthy lifestyle free of harmful substances like alcohol and tobacco.
In addition to their diet, the inhabitants of this Californian town practice rest as a fundamental pillar for longevity, prioritizing restful sleep and disconnecting from daily stress. Beyond diet and rest, regular exercise is another aspect that contributes to a longer life.
Physical activity and community
The sense of community also plays a key role in longevity. The inhabitants of Loma Linda have a strong social support network, allowing them to maintain meaningful connections and a sense of purpose, factors that have been identified as essential for a longer and healthier life.
