The island of Okinawa in Japan boasts the world's highest proportion of centenarians, or people aged 100 years and over. Elderly Okinawans in particular have a history of ageing slowly and delaying or even escaping diseases associated with ageing such as dementia, cardiovascular disease and cancer.
In 1975, the Okinawa Centenarian Study was established to uncover the genetic and lifestyle factors responsible for this remarkable ageing phenomenon. So what is the secret to such longevity?
A diet rich in fish, soy foods, fruit and vegetables. Drinking alcohol in moderation and not smoking. The practice of gentle exercise such as walking and gardening. Enjoying a strong spiritual connection with others. And most importantly, maintaining an easy-going and optimistic approach to life.
For more information on the Okinawa Centenarian study, please click here.