Ikaria's Secret: How Greek Island Women Live So Long and Stay Healthy

Ikaria, a Greek island in the northeastern Aegean Sea, is renowned as a haven for some of the world's longest-living women. Many residents here frequently surpass the age of 90, maintaining remarkable health, and the island boasts one of the lowest rates of dementia globally.

The secret to this longevity is believed to be multifaceted, with diet playing a significant role. The traditional Ikarian cuisine emphasizes simple, natural ingredients. Local women and other long-lived residents consume large quantities of vegetables and legumes daily. A favorite dish, "mavromatika," is a hearty meal based on black-eyed peas.

However, diet is not the sole contributor. The island's rugged terrain naturally encourages physical activity, with residents often walking and tending to gardens well into old age. Furthermore, the Ikarian lifestyle is characterized by a less stressful pace, incorporating daily siestas and a relaxed approach to schedules, all of which contribute to their overall well-being and extended lifespans.