Costa Rica’s Nicoya region has 900 residents over 90 right now.
Here’s how the area has become a coveted “Blue Zone.”
Its also a place death forgets.
Clementina Espinoza, 91, takes care of her garden in Nicoya, Costa Rica, August 27, 2021. - Espinoza and her husband Agustin, 100, live in one of the five Blue Zones of the world, where longevity is a characteristic in a higher than usual number of people.Credit:EZEQUIEL BECERRA/AFP via Getty Images
A Nicoya 60-year-old has an eight-fold better chance of reaching 100 than an American does.
So what keeps Nicoya residents living long, long lives?
Their hardworking but low-stress lifestyles are largely at play, the experts report.
Courtesy of Visit Costa Rica
Corn, beans, and squash, a.k.a.
the three sisters of Mesoamerican agriculture, is arguably one of the healthiest diets to exist, Buettner emphasized.
Nicoyans also drink significantly less milk than other Costa Ricans.
Courtesy of Visit Costa Rica
Sunlight triggers a reaction that converts cholesterol into vitamin D, Buetttner said.
Vitamin D, when coupled with calcium [from their calcium-rich water], helps keep bones strong.
The work doesnt stop, but neither do the residents of Nicoya.
Courtesy of Visit Costa Rica
But that doesnt mean play takes a backseat.
Thats not the only constant physical activity the people of Nicoya partake in.
They feel the want and need to contribute to the greater good and support their families and friends.
Courtesy of Visit Costa Rica
Courtesy of Visit Costa Rica
Courtesy of Visit Costa Rica
Courtesy of Visit Costa Rica
