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Alabadi-Bierman A, Spencer-Hwang R, Beeson WL, Paalani M, Dos Santos H. The Association Between Lifestyle Factors and COVID-19 Among Older Adults in Southern California: The Loma Linda Longevity Study. J Appl Gerontol 2024; 43:1560-1569. [PMID: 38556624 DOI: 10.1177/07334648241242687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Amid a global aging trend, particularly notable in the U.S., there is a growing focus on achieving enhanced longevity and well-being. We evaluated the association between lifestyle factors (sleep, diet, and healthy lifestyle index) and COVID-19 infection in an older adult population in San Bernardino and Riverside counties in Southern California, the United States. A sample of 380 older adults ≥75 years old were surveyed cross-sectionally and self-reported lifestyle behaviors and COVID-19 infection. The results revealed that half the participants reported COVID-19 infection. Participants who slept less than 7 hours or more than 8 hours/night had higher odds of COVID-19 infection than those who slept 7-8 hours/night (OR = 1.62, 95% CI: 1.03, 2.55). Healthy lifestyle behaviors were significantly associated with reduced COVID-19 infection (OR = 0.61, 95% CI: 0.40, 0.92). In conclusion, adequate sleep and healthy lifestyle behaviors may be protective against COVID-19 infection among older adults and should be investigated further.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Michael Paalani
- Loma Linda University School of Public Health, Loma Linda, CA, USA
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Pes GM, Errigo A, Dore MP. Association between Mild Overweight and Survival: A Study of an Exceptionally Long-Lived Population in the Sardinian Blue Zone. J Clin Med 2024; 13:5322. [PMID: 39274535 PMCID: PMC11396680 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13175322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2024] [Revised: 08/29/2024] [Accepted: 09/04/2024] [Indexed: 09/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Overweight and obesity are generally considered risk factors for premature mortality. However, scientific evidence suggests that among older populations, mild conditions of overweight might be associated with reduced comorbidity and longer survival. This study investigates the potential association between anthropometric parameters and survival among a cohort of nonagenarians in Sardinia, Italy. Methods: This study included 200 subjects (50% females) aged 89 and older, enrolled in 2018 in the Sardinian Blue Zone-a population known for longevity-and followed for up to six years. Anthropometric variables such as body height, weight, age, sex, comorbidity, disability, and food group intake were collected using validated questionnaires and analyzed through multivariable analysis. Results: Out of 200 participants at baseline, 28 (14%) were still alive after six years of follow-up (females 10%, males 18%). Mean survival was 3.36 years (range 0.1-6.9 years) for males and 3.03 years (range 0.2-6.6 years) for females. Participants with a Body Mass Index (BMI) in the range of 25.0-27.0 kg/m2 among males and 25.0-27.2 kg/m2 among females had longer survival compared to those who were underweight (p = 0.002) or obese (p < 0.0001). The Cox proportional hazards regression model, adjusted for age, sex, and comorbidity, revealed a statistically significant association between the BMI and survival, demonstrating an inverted-U relationship. This indicates that mild overweight was associated with a survival advantage compared to both normal weight and obesity. Conclusions: Our study indicates that mild, but not severe, overweight in nonagenarians is associated with extended lifespan. Therefore, primary care physicians and geriatricians should exercise caution before recommending calorie-restricted diets for mildly overweight elderly patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Mario Pes
- Dipartimento di Medicina, Chirurgia e Farmacia, University of Sassari, Clinica Medica, Viale San Pietro 8, 07100 Sassari, Italy
- Sardinia Blue Zone Longevity Observatory, 08040 Santa Maria Navarrese, Italy
| | - Alessandra Errigo
- Dipartimento di Medicina, Chirurgia e Farmacia, University of Sassari, Clinica Medica, Viale San Pietro 8, 07100 Sassari, Italy
| | - Maria Pina Dore
- Dipartimento di Medicina, Chirurgia e Farmacia, University of Sassari, Clinica Medica, Viale San Pietro 8, 07100 Sassari, Italy
- Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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Ramkumar D, Marty A, Ramkumar J, Rosencranz H, Vedantham R, Goldman M, Meyer E, Steinmetz J, Weckle A, Bloedorn K, Rosier C. Food for thought: Making the case for food produced via regenerative agriculture in the battle against non-communicable chronic diseases (NCDs). One Health 2024; 18:100734. [PMID: 38711478 PMCID: PMC11070632 DOI: 10.1016/j.onehlt.2024.100734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) pose a global health challenge, leading to substantial morbidity, mortality, and economic strain. Our review underscores the escalating incidence of NCDs worldwide and highlights the potential of regenerative agriculture (RA) products in mitigating these diseases. We also explore the efficacy of dietary interventions in NCD management and prevention, emphasizing the superiority of plant-based diets over those high in processed foods and red meat. Examining the role of the gut microbiome in various diseases, including liver disorders, allergies, metabolic syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, and colon cancer, we find compelling evidence implicating its influence on disease development. Notably, dietary modifications can positively affect the gut microbiome, fostering a symbiotic relationship with the host and making this a critical strategy in disease prevention and treatment. Investigating agricultural practices, we identify parallels between soil/plant and human microbiome studies, suggesting a crucial link between soil health, plant- and animal-derived food quality, and human well-being. Conventional/Industrial agriculture (IA) practices, characterized in part by use of chemical inputs, have adverse effects on soil microbiome diversity, food quality, and ecosystems. In contrast, RA prioritizes soil health through natural processes, and includes avoiding synthetic inputs, crop rotation, and integrating livestock. Emerging evidence suggests that food from RA systems surpasses IA-produced food in quality and nutritional value. Recognizing the interconnection between human, plant, and soil microbiomes, promoting RA-produced foods emerges as a strategy to improve human health and environmental sustainability. By mitigating climate change impacts through carbon sequestration and water cycling, RA offers dual benefits for human and planetary health and well-being. Emphasizing the pivotal role of diet and agricultural practices in combating NCDs and addressing environmental concerns, the adoption of regional RA systems becomes imperative. Increasing RA integration into local food systems can enhance food quality, availability, and affordability while safeguarding human health and the planet's future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davendra Ramkumar
- Carle Illinois College of Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana Champaign, 506 South Matthews Ave, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
- Illinois Water Resources Center, University of Illinois Urbana Champaign, Natural Resources Building 615 E. Peabody Dr Champaign, IL 61820, USA
| | - Aileen Marty
- Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, 11200 SW 8th Street, Miami, FL 33199, USA
| | - Japhia Ramkumar
- Carle Illinois College of Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana Champaign, 506 South Matthews Ave, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
- Illinois Water Resources Center, University of Illinois Urbana Champaign, Natural Resources Building 615 E. Peabody Dr Champaign, IL 61820, USA
| | - Holly Rosencranz
- Carle Illinois College of Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana Champaign, 506 South Matthews Ave, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
- Illinois Water Resources Center, University of Illinois Urbana Champaign, Natural Resources Building 615 E. Peabody Dr Champaign, IL 61820, USA
| | - Radhika Vedantham
- Carle Illinois College of Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana Champaign, 506 South Matthews Ave, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
- Illinois Water Resources Center, University of Illinois Urbana Champaign, Natural Resources Building 615 E. Peabody Dr Champaign, IL 61820, USA
| | - Modan Goldman
- Carle Illinois College of Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana Champaign, 506 South Matthews Ave, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
- Illinois Water Resources Center, University of Illinois Urbana Champaign, Natural Resources Building 615 E. Peabody Dr Champaign, IL 61820, USA
| | - Erin Meyer
- Basil's Harvest, 227 W Monroe St, Suite 2100, Chicago, IL 60606, USA
| | - Jasia Steinmetz
- University of Wisconsin – Stevens Point 202 College of Professional Studies, Stevens Point, WI 54481-3897, USA
| | - Amy Weckle
- Illinois Water Resources Center, University of Illinois Urbana Champaign, Natural Resources Building 615 E. Peabody Dr Champaign, IL 61820, USA
| | - Kelly Bloedorn
- Basil's Harvest, 227 W Monroe St, Suite 2100, Chicago, IL 60606, USA
| | - Carl Rosier
- Basil's Harvest, 227 W Monroe St, Suite 2100, Chicago, IL 60606, USA
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Marche C, Poulain M, Nieddu A, Errigo A, Dore MP, Pes GM. Is a plant-based diet effective to maintain a good psycho-affective status in old age? Results of a survey of a long-lived population from Sardinia. Nutr Neurosci 2024; 27:382-391. [PMID: 37023016 DOI: 10.1080/1028415x.2023.2198115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Depression is common among the elderly, resulting in poor quality of life and elevated healthcare expenditure. Among other factors, dietary habits could also affect this condition, although the specific food patterns involved remain to be established. The present study aimed to assess the role of plant- versus animal-dominant foods consumption on the affective state of nonagenarians from a Sardinian population, Italy, well known for its longevity (Blue Zone). METHODS Data, including demographic, education, anthropometric parameters, monthly income, and comorbidity were recorded and analyzed. Symptomatic depression was assessed using the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) during a comprehensive home geriatric assessment; nutritional status was evaluated by a validated food frequency questionnaire. RESULTS A total of 200 elderly subjects living in the Sardinian Blue Zone (mean age 93.9 ± 3.9 years) participated in the study; symptomatic depression was present in 51% of the whole cohort and was more common among women. Multivariable logistic regression showed a significantly greater risk of depression in people consuming plantbased foods (OR = 1.42, 95% CI 1.04-1.93), whereas moderate animal-derived foods consumption was associated with a better affective state (OR = 0.79, 95% CI 0.62-0.98). CONCLUSIONS These findings indicate that a more balanced diet, including animal-derived foods, instead of an exclusive plant-dominant diet, may be more appropriate in the elderly, and abstention from animal-based food intake should not be recommended in advanced age to prevent depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Marche
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Michel Poulain
- IACCHOS, Université catholique de Louvain, Louvain-la Neuve, Belgium
- Estonian Institute for Population Studies, Tallinn University, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Alessandra Nieddu
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Alessandra Errigo
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Maria Pina Dore
- Dipartimento di Medicina, Chirurgia e Farmacia, Clinica Medica, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
- Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Giovanni Mario Pes
- Dipartimento di Medicina, Chirurgia e Farmacia, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
- Sardinia Longevity Blue Zone Observatory, Ogliastra, Italy
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Aliberti SM, Donato A, Funk RHW, Capunzo M. A Narrative Review Exploring the Similarities between Cilento and the Already Defined "Blue Zones" in Terms of Environment, Nutrition, and Lifestyle: Can Cilento Be Considered an Undefined "Blue Zone"? Nutrients 2024; 16:729. [PMID: 38474857 DOI: 10.3390/nu16050729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2024] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Longevity is rightly considered one of the greatest achievements of modern society, not only as a function of lifespan, but, more importantly, as a function of healthspan. There are Longevity Blue Zones (LBZs), regions around the world, such as in Okinawa, Japan; the Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica; Loma Linda, California; Icaria, Greece; and Ogliastra, Sardinia, that are characterized by a significant percentage of residents who live exceptionally long lives, often avoiding age-related disability to a significantly higher degree than in the Western way of life. Longevity is not a universal phenomenon, so if there are places in the world with characteristics similar to the LBZs, it is important to identify them in order to better understand what other factors, in addition to the known ones, might contribute to a long and healthy life. This narrative review aims to identify common factors between Cilento and the five LBZs, taking into account environmental, nutritional, and lifestyle factors. Articles from 2004 to the present, limited to studies published in English, German, and Italian, were searched in PubMed/Medline, Scopus, and Google Scholar. The co-authors agreed on 18 final reference texts. In order to evaluate the similarities between Cilento and the LBZs, a descriptive comparative approach was used. Cilento and the LBZs share several common factors, including a hilly altitude ranging from 355 to 600 m; a mild climate throughout the year, with temperatures between 17.4 and 23.5 degrees Celsius; traditional professions, such as agriculture and animal husbandry; and a predominantly Mediterranean or plant-based diet, with typical recipes based on legumes, tubers, vegetables, and extra virgin olive oil. Additionally, maintenance of strong intergenerational family relationships, religious devotion, and social relationships within the community are also prevalent. Given the similarities to Cilento, one might wonder if this is an LBZ waiting to be discovered. The lessons learned from this discovery could be applied to the general population to protect them from non-communicable chronic diseases and help slow the aging process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvana Mirella Aliberti
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana", University of Salerno, 84081 Salerno, Italy
| | - Antonio Donato
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana", University of Salerno, 84081 Salerno, Italy
| | - Richard H W Funk
- Institute of Anatomy, Technische Universität Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany
- Division of Preventive Medicine, Dresden International University (DIU), 01067 Dresden, Germany
| | - Mario Capunzo
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana", University of Salerno, 84081 Salerno, Italy
- Complex Operational Unit Health Hygiene, University Hospital "San Giovanni di Dio e Ruggi d'Aragona", 84131 Salerno, Italy
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Pes GM, Dore MP. Letter to the Editor. Eur J Prev Cardiol 2023; 30:e11-e12. [PMID: 36384025 DOI: 10.1093/eurjpc/zwac276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2022] [Revised: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Mario Pes
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Pharmacy, Viale San Pietro, n. 43, 07100 Sassari, Italy
| | - Maria Pina Dore
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Pharmacy, Viale San Pietro, n. 43, 07100 Sassari, Italy
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Soloski MJ, Poulain M, Pes GM. Does the trained immune system play an important role in the extreme longevity that is seen in the Sardinian blue zone? FRONTIERS IN AGING 2022; 3:1069415. [PMID: 36601618 PMCID: PMC9806115 DOI: 10.3389/fragi.2022.1069415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Villages in the island of Sardinia in the Mediterranean that display exceptional longevity are clustered within a defined mountainous region. Because of their unique location we hypothesize that these villages had a unique infectious disease exposure relevant to the observed successful longevity. These highland villages had a significant exposure to malaria in the first half of the 20th century after which malaria was eliminated due to vector control mechanisms. In addition, there is likely a high incidence of Helicobacter pylori infections among shepherds in Sardinia, the primary occupation of many living in the LBZ, as well as helminth infections among children. This suggests that individuals living in the LBZ had a unique infectious disease exposure. Specifically, we hypothesize that the continued high exposure of residents in the LBZ to these infectious agents prior to the 1950s lead to the generation of a uniquely trained (or imprinted) immune system. Once some of these diseases were eliminated in the latter half of the century, individuals within the LBZ were equipped with a trained immune system that was uniquely capable of not only responding effectively to common infections but also responding in a manner that maximized maintaining tissue health. In addition, there are lifestyle factors that also favor such a trained immune system. This hypothesis may help explain the slow progression of chronic immune mediated diseases as well as other chronic non-transmissible age-related diseases seen in the Sardinian LBZ and serve as a template for future studies that support or refute this hypothesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark J. Soloski
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States,*Correspondence: Mark J. Soloski,
| | - Michel Poulain
- IACCHOS Université Catholique de Louvain, Estonian Institute for Population Studies, Tallinn University, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Giovanni M. Pes
- Dipartimento di Medicina, Chirurgia e Farmacia, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
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Herbert C, House M, Dietzman R, Climstein M, Furness J, Kemp-Smith K. Blue Zones: Centenarian Modes of Physical Activity: A Scoping Review. JOURNAL OF POPULATION AGEING 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s12062-022-09396-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
AbstractThe primary aim of this scoping review was to identify the predominant modes of physical activity (PA) in each Blue Zone and to explore the influences that environment and culture have on PA. A research team of three Doctor of Physiotherapy students completed a systematic search using five online databases and cross referenced each reviewer in the study selection process. The study selection was based on eligibility criteria comprised of population autonomy/independence, > 80 years, Blue Zone resident, specified mode of physical activity, and utilized all research designs except for case studies and literature reviews. The databases retrieved a total of 236 articles, and 18 of which, met the inclusion criteria. Data synthesis revealed that 81% of the activities engaged by Blue Zone centenarians are moderate intensity activities. Blue Zone centenarians represent a significantly high physical functioning and high levels of activity through labouring occupations, outdoor hobbies and in-home activities. The most predominant mode represented through the included studies was agricultural activities. Overall, Blue Zones Centenarians are highly active, perform continuous and consistent movements daily, maintain daily hobbies, and work beyond the expected age of retirement. The key findings represent a significant effect on PA by environmental and cultural influences of each region.
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Kreouzi M, Theodorakis N, Constantinou C. Lessons Learned From Blue Zones, Lifestyle Medicine Pillars and Beyond: An Update on the Contributions of Behavior and Genetics to Wellbeing and Longevity. Am J Lifestyle Med 2022. [DOI: 10.1177/15598276221118494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Blue Zones are regions of the world that have a higher number of individuals who live longer than the expected average. The current paper revisits principles previously identified to be common in Blue Zones and to be contributing to longevity ( move naturally, eat wisely, improve resilience to stress, get adequate sleep, keep strong family ties, stimulate strong community support, respect for the planet and having a purpose in life’), compares these to the 6 pillars of Lifestyle Medicine ( healthy eating, exercising, avoidance of smoking and other risky substances, stress management, restorative sleep, and forming and maintaining relationships) and reviews new studies investigating the association between behavioral factors and longevity. In addition to the role of behavior, the review also discusses the important role of genetics and emphasizes the importance of conducting further research to understand how behavioral and genetic factors may affect molecular pathways with consequent effects on wellbeing and longevity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalini Kreouzi
- Department of Basic and Clinical Sciences, University of Nicosia Medical School, Nicosia, Cyprus (MK, CC); Department of Internal Medicine, Limassol General Hospital, Limassol, Cyprus (NT)
| | - Nikolaos Theodorakis
- Department of Basic and Clinical Sciences, University of Nicosia Medical School, Nicosia, Cyprus (MK, CC); Department of Internal Medicine, Limassol General Hospital, Limassol, Cyprus (NT)
| | - Constantina Constantinou
- Department of Basic and Clinical Sciences, University of Nicosia Medical School, Nicosia, Cyprus (MK, CC); Department of Internal Medicine, Limassol General Hospital, Limassol, Cyprus (NT)
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Pes GM, Dore MP, Tsofliou F, Poulain M. Diet and longevity in the Blue Zones: A set-and-forget issue? Maturitas 2022; 164:31-37. [PMID: 35780634 DOI: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2022.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Revised: 06/05/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
The Blue Zones (BZs) are areas of the globe inhabited by exceptionally long-lived populations. They include the island of Okinawa in Japan, the island of Ikaria in Greece, the mountain area of the island of Sardinia in Italy, and the peninsula of Nicoya in Costa Rica. Their longevity is a relatively recent phenomenon that has been progressively investigated since the dawn of this century. Research efforts over the past two decades have sought to shed light on the factors associated with this longevity, as well as explore the possibility of lessons transferable to the general population. Among the features of BZ inhabitants, described in the literature, their eating habits hold a prominent place, as these have the advantage of being easily quantifiable and applicable on a larger scale. However, it is too often taken for granted that the mere fact of being documented in a long-lived population makes the diet a causal factor of that population's longevity; this is a claim which should be proven. Furthermore, it is implicitly assumed that a specific BZ diet is homogeneous and remains stable over time, whereas some evidence suggests the opposite. Therefore, this review summarizes our current knowledge of the BZ diets and discusses whether they can be considered as a paradigmatic example of healthy nutrition valid for anyone or, rather, a set of evolving food patterns that has offered benefits to a few specific communities in recent decades.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Mario Pes
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Pharmacy, University of Sassari, Italy; Sardinia Longevity Blue Zone Observatory, Ogliastra, Italy.
| | - Maria Pina Dore
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Pharmacy, University of Sassari, Italy; Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, USA
| | - Fotini Tsofliou
- Department of Rehabilitation and Sport Sciences, Faculty of Health & Social Sciences, Bournemouth University, Bournemouth BH8 8GP, UK; Centre for Midwifery, Maternal & Perinatal Health, Faculty of Health & Social Sciences, Bournemouth University, Bournemouth BH8 8GP, UK
| | - Michel Poulain
- IACCHOS Université catholique de Louvain, Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium; Estonian Institute for Population Studies, Tallinn University, Tallinn, Estonia
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Dakic T, Jevdjovic T, Vujovic P, Mladenovic A. The Less We Eat, the Longer We Live: Can Caloric Restriction Help Us Become Centenarians? Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23126546. [PMID: 35742989 PMCID: PMC9223351 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23126546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Revised: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Striving for longevity is neither a recent human desire nor a novel scientific field. The first article on this topic was published in 1838, when the average human life expectancy was approximately 40 years. Although nowadays people on average live almost as twice as long, we still (and perhaps more than ever) look for new ways to extend our lifespan. During this seemingly endless journey of discovering efficient methods to prolong life, humans were enthusiastic regarding several approaches, one of which is caloric restriction (CR). Where does CR, initially considered universally beneficial for extending both lifespan and health span, stand today? Does a lifelong decrease in food consumption represent one of the secrets of centenarians’ long and healthy life? Do we still believe that if we eat less, we will live longer? This review aims to summarize the current literature on CR as a potential life-prolonging intervention in humans and discusses metabolic pathways that underlie this effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamara Dakic
- Department for Comparative Physiology and Ecophysiology, Institute for Physiology and Biochemistry “Ivan Djaja”, Faculty of Biology, University of Belgrade, Studentski trg 16, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (T.D.); (T.J.); (P.V.)
| | - Tanja Jevdjovic
- Department for Comparative Physiology and Ecophysiology, Institute for Physiology and Biochemistry “Ivan Djaja”, Faculty of Biology, University of Belgrade, Studentski trg 16, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (T.D.); (T.J.); (P.V.)
| | - Predrag Vujovic
- Department for Comparative Physiology and Ecophysiology, Institute for Physiology and Biochemistry “Ivan Djaja”, Faculty of Biology, University of Belgrade, Studentski trg 16, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (T.D.); (T.J.); (P.V.)
| | - Aleksandra Mladenovic
- Department of Neurobiology, Institute for Biological Research “Sinisa Stankovic”—National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Bul.D. Stefana 142, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
- Correspondence:
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12
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Angelino D, Pietrangeli F, Serafini M. Early Dinner Time and Caloric Restriction Lapse Contribute to the Longevity of Nonagenarians and Centenarians of the Italian Abruzzo Region: A Cross-Sectional Study. Front Nutr 2022; 9:863106. [PMID: 35392292 PMCID: PMC8982510 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2022.863106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent findings showed the role of late-night eating in metabolic disorders, highlighting the importance of meal timing for health. No evidence is available on the role of meal timing for longevity. The aim of this study was to survey, in a cross-sectional study, meal timing and dietary habits of 68 nonagenarians and centenarians of the Abruzzo region, Italy. Results showed an early dinner (7:13 p.m.) and a calorie restriction lapse of 17.5 h between dinner and the following lunch. The frequency of consumption was high for cereals, vegetables, fruits, and legumes; low for meat, processed meat, and eggs; and negligible for sweets. Subjects were physically active throughout life. Our results support the importance of a daily caloric restriction lapse, hampering nocturnal postprandial stress and optimizing metabolic response, associated with high consumption of plant-based foods and physical activity for the longevity of centenarians from Abruzzo.
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Aliberti SM, De Caro F, Funk RHW, Schiavo L, Gonnella J, Boccia G, Capunzo M. Extreme Longevity: Analysis of the Direct or Indirect Influence of Environmental Factors on Old, Nonagenarians, and Centenarians in Cilento, Italy. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:1589. [PMID: 35162611 PMCID: PMC8834812 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19031589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Longevity is rightly considered one of the greatest achievements of modern society, an achievement understood as the possibility of increasing the healthy part of life and not only its full duration. This study investigated the phenomenon of regional longevity in Cilento by analyzing the association between longevity indicators and some environmental factors, in order to understand if factors such as altitude, climate, UNESCO protected areas, and hinterland can directly or indirectly influence the measure of healthy living and lead to longevity. Demographic and environmental data were collected through the Archives of the Cilento municipalities, the National Institute of Statistics, the Italian Institute for Environmental Protection and Research, and the Italian National Commission for UNESCO. The Geographically Weighted Regression were used to determine the association between longevity indicators and environmental factors. Correlation analysis between the longevity indicators was investigated in order to have a complete picture of longevity in Cilento. It was discovered that Cilento longevity is mainly found in the central area of the territory and from there, by age groups, it widens towards the south-eastern area. This designated area is part of the hilly area of the Cilento, at an altitude between 400 and 700 m above sea level. The towns of this area are part of the UNESCO heritage and are characterized by a transitional climate between Mediterranean and temperate climate. Moreover, the correlation analysis between the six indicators of longevity has confirmed a linear relationship between the six variables and this indicates that in the years to come there will be the probabilities of a generational turn over between the old, great old, nonagenarians and current centenarians, provided that the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic subsides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvana Mirella Aliberti
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, 84081 Salerno, Italy; (F.D.C.); (L.S.); (G.B.); (M.C.)
| | - Francesco De Caro
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, 84081 Salerno, Italy; (F.D.C.); (L.S.); (G.B.); (M.C.)
| | - Richard H. W. Funk
- Medical Faculty Carl Gustav Carus, Institute of Anatomy, University of Technology (TU) Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany;
| | - Luigi Schiavo
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, 84081 Salerno, Italy; (F.D.C.); (L.S.); (G.B.); (M.C.)
| | - Joseph Gonnella
- Center for Medical Research in Medical Education and Health Care, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA;
| | - Giovanni Boccia
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, 84081 Salerno, Italy; (F.D.C.); (L.S.); (G.B.); (M.C.)
| | - Mario Capunzo
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, 84081 Salerno, Italy; (F.D.C.); (L.S.); (G.B.); (M.C.)
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Specific features of the oldest old from the Longevity Blue Zones in Ikaria and Sardinia. Mech Ageing Dev 2021; 198:111543. [PMID: 34265327 DOI: 10.1016/j.mad.2021.111543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2021] [Revised: 06/17/2021] [Accepted: 07/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Human longevity may be found in single individuals as well as in the population as a whole ("population longevity"). Longevity Blue Zones (LBZs), which are areas with an unusually high number of oldest old, have been identified in Sardinia and the Greek island of Ikaria. We compared the lifestyle, health status and some genetic markers of the LBZ populations with those of reference populations from Italy and Greece; the data were extracted from the GEHA database. In the LBZs, the proportion of individuals who never married or were married and still living with their spouse was significantly greater. Nonagenarians males and females with a high self‒perception of optimism and/or a high score for self-rated health were also found in larger proportions in LBZs. Among the variables with lower frequency were the proportion of the widowed, the percentage of subjects who had suffered a stroke and the frequency of Apoε4 and Apoε2 and the TT genotype of FOXO3A gene. Compared to behavioral and health indicators, the impact of genetic factors might be relatively less important in the LBZs. Nevertheless, further research is needed to identify potential epigenetic traits that might play a predominant role due to the interaction between genetics and the human and physical environments.
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