There are five ‘official’ Blue Zones where residents are reportedly more likely to live significantly longer lives
A researcher has suggested that inhabitants of Earth’s exceptional ‘Blue Zones’ frequently adhere to a straightforward principle for extended lifespans – and it may be good news for wine lovers. Costa Rica, Greece and Japan are home to three of the five distinctive areas where locals are reportedly 10 times more likely to live to 100 than those in the United States.
Although approaches such as calorie limitation, plant-based eating habits, and prioritising family connections are widespread in these areas, it’s the reference to wine that might surprise you most. Interestingly, it’s documented that ‘consistent’ alcohol intake is especially noteworthy in Blue Zones, with certain inhabitants consuming one or two glasses each day.
“People in all Blue Zones (except Adventists) drink alcohol moderately and regularly,” Blue Zones explorer Dan Buettner previously wrote, according to a past Mirror report. “Moderate drinkers outlive non-drinkers. The trick is to drink 1-2 glasses per day (preferably Sardinian Cannonau wine), with friends and/or with food. And no, you can’t save up all week and have 14 drinks on Saturday.”
Given that various health bodies caution about alcohol’s long-term risks, including elevated blood pressure, liver disease, strokes and different cancers, this ‘trick’ may appear puzzling. However, Dr Gareth Nye (@dr.gareth.nye), Biomedical Science lecturer at the University of Salford, told the Mirror last year that red wine, especially, may offer certain benefits when consumed in moderation.
At the time, he explained: “Red wine contains a chemical called resveratrol. It is a plant compound that has been suggested to have antioxidant properties. Antioxidants help protect cells from damage and in older people their ability to protect cells is diminished.
“Some studies have suggested antioxidants can protect cells by reducing inflammation which therefore can help people live longer. [Research has] also suggested resveratrol can lower blood pressure and control cholesterol by increasing HDL or ‘good’ cholesterol.
“But alcohol is not a requirement in the diet and the same impact can be had through intake of fruit and vegetables and the risks of damage from alcohol intake far exceed the potential benefits.”
To reap the potential benefits of wine without harming your body, it’s essential to understand what constitutes excessive drinking. In the UK, guidelines recommend consuming no more than 14 ‘units’ weekly, spread across at least three days.
In essence, that’s around six pints of average-strength beer or 10 small glasses of lower-strength wine, according to the NHS. In 2024, nutritionist Helen Bell, at Help & Advice, also told the Mirror: “Exceeding these limits can lead to a host of health issues, including liver disease, increased risk of cancer, and cardiovascular problems.
“I’ve had cases where individuals believed they were drinking moderately, only to realise their consumption was higher than recommended, leading to adverse health effects. I always recommend keeping track of your alcohol intake by knowing what constitutes a unit of alcohol. For example, a standard glass of wine (175ml) is about two units.
“Spreading your consumption over the week and including several alcohol-free days can help keep your intake within healthy limits.” Meanwhile, Dr Nye added: “No one should be drinking alcohol for health benefits, moderation is always key.
“Ideally, as little alcohol as possible is best for health, but if you feel your alcohol intake has increased over time or you feel like you are relying on alcohol, then you should ideally seek help for this.”
In addition to mindful alcohol consumption, inhabitants of Blue Zones reportedly practice the ‘80% trick’ or ‘Hara Hachi Bu’, which may contribute to their longevity. This typically involves having a light meal in the late afternoon or early evening and eating until only about 80% full.
Although this approach definitely helps locals prevent uncomfortable ‘food coma’ feelings, Helen isn’t convinced it’s suitable for everyone. She continued: “This method can help prevent overeating and support weight management, reducing the risk of obesity-related diseases.
“However, eating one meal per day might not be suitable for everyone, as nutritional needs vary. I always advise individuals to tailor their eating patterns to their own body’s requirements while maintaining a balanced diet.”
In a similar vein, Dr Nye said: “There is a lot of literature around calorie restrictions and its potential benefits. Taken in isolation, this may not be healthy long term, however, many of these Blue Zones have a full well-rounded approach to healthy lifestyles for which eating one meal is one.
“There is an issue with overeating, which is ultimately driving global obesity levels higher and higher, and knowing when to stop eating is a big part of this. The less excess fat tissue you carry, the longer your chance of living is.”
