In The Blue Zones: The Secret of Living Beyond 100 Years, Dan Buettner explores the lifestyles and habits of people in regions where exceptional longevity is common. These areas, known as Blue Zones, have the highest concentration of centenarians—people who live to 100 years or more.

Below you will find the fifth, the most unexpected and the last of the Blue Zones we will explore.

Loma Linda (USA)

In the middle of a nation where life expectancy is declining despite advances in healthcare, Loma Linda, California, stands out as a remarkable exception. As the most modern Blue Zone, this small community thrives thanks to a lifestyle deeply rooted in balance, faith, and mindful living.

The Power of Rest and Community

A cornerstone of life in Loma Linda is the weekly Sabbath—a 24-hour period of rest and reflection observed by the local Seventh-day Adventist community. This intentional break from the demands of daily life allows time to reconnect with family, nature, friends, and spirituality. Residents believe it reduces stress, strengthens social bonds, and supports mental well-being.

Movement as a Way of Life

Daily low-intensity physical activity is woven into everyday routines. Whether it’s walking, gardening, or playing tennis—a sport often associated with longevity—residents stay active without the need for intense workouts.

Strength in Faith

A strong, faith-based community helps foster emotional resilience and a deep sense of purpose. Belief in a higher power offers inner peace and promotes a supportive, tight-knit social network.

Nourishment Through Thoughtful Eating

Loma Linda’s dietary habits also contribute to its longevity:

• Moderate Meat Consumption: Meat is consumed sparingly, often as a side, supporting a plant-forward diet known to reduce cancer risk.

• Light Evening Meals: In line with the saying, “Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince, and dinner like a pauper,” residents keep dinners light to improve sleep and maintain a healthy BMI.

• Plant-Based Nutrition: Inspired by biblical teachings, the Adventist diet emphasizes fruits, vegetables, legumes, and nuts while limiting sugar, salt, and refined grains—choices backed by science for promoting long-term health.

In Loma Linda, longevity isn’t just about medicine — it’s a way of life. These are some other habits identified that has benefitted the community with longevity making them one of the Blue Zones in the world.

Loma Linda is the fifth region and next week we will go through the four main pilars of the fifth region and tell you about a country that has taken these secrets and made them their way of life.

Watch this space it might be the most important lesson in all of our lives…