Ten Secrets to Healthy Living—Greek Style

March 2023

In five cities across the world, the number of residents who live to age 100 is 10 times higher than the US average. Dubbed “Blue Zones” by New York Times bestselling author Dan Buettner, the following cities are home to the healthiest people on earth:

• Okinawa, Japan
• Sardinia, Italy
• Nicoya, Costa Rica
• Loma Linda, California
• Ikaria, Greece

Researchers, including students from BYU, are discovering why people living in these communities enjoy such good health. Led by public health professor Randy Page, a group of BYU wellness and exercise students traveled to Ikaria, Greece, to learn about eating, living, and cooking the Mediterranean way.

“One of the secrets of the Blue Zone . . . is to start every day with gratitude,” says student participant Emily Flake. “Be grateful for the people you have around you and the day before you. Make the most of it.”

Flake says seeing people live healthy, fulfilled lives was just what she needed to round out her education. “As an exercise science student, that is what I am interested in for myself and others: to live lives that are going to be long and healthy and full of joy.”

Since returning, the students are eager to share what they learned during their time in Ikaria. Here are their top 10 tips for healthy living:

1. Surround yourself with people who value a healthy lifestyle.
2. Value your mealtime and be sure to enjoy it together.
3. Stay physically active.
4. Take time to be outside every day.
5. Eat fresh fruits and vegetables.
6. Grow a garden.
7. Have a colorful meal with at least four foods.
8. Eat what’s in season.
9. Start every day with gratitude.
10. Make your food with love.