Some factors, such as genetics, are not in our control. Others like exercise, a healthy diet, and taking care of our mental health are within our reach. Genetics probably only accounts for 20% to 30% of longevity. So, environmental influences, including diet and lifestyle, play a huge role in determining your life span and quality of life.
A lot of people are very interested in this, including governments and health systems. Why?
By 2050, the number of older adults will more than double to 1.6 billion people;
Life expectancy has increased by 20 years since 1960;
A person, on average, will live ten more years in medium or poor health, impacting the ability to live life fully and leading to increases in care and dependency;
This is compounded by social isolation and other factors affecting both physical and mental health.
“Blue Zones” are geographic areas in which people have low rates of chronic disease and live longer than anywhere else.
There are nine characteristics common to all Blue Zone regions that can be used to make healthy lifestyle changes. Importantly, these elements encompass all aspects of wellbeing, including physical, mental, social, and emotional health and spiritual wellbeing.
They include a daily routine of physical activity, finding purpose, stress reduction techniques, eating less, eating predominantly plant-based food, and moderating meat intake, drinking wine, having a sense of belonging, putting family first, and having good relationships with friends.
Avanti members are well ahead of the curve by embracing healthy habits to live longer, be healthier, and feel happier. We created Avanti to be mini ‘Blue Zones’ where you can not just add years to your life, but life to your years!
Our specialised over-50s gym caters to all your fitness needs