A small mountain village in Sardinia, Italy, has been identified as a new global hotspot for longevity, with a remarkably high rate of residents living past 100 years old, especially women.
Bolotana, situated in the center of the island, has 10 centenarians among its 2,262 residents, a concentration approximately 11 times the U.S. average and 10 times the Sardinian average, according to recent research. This finding is particularly notable as longevity is declining in many traditional "Blue Zones" – areas known for their high number of centenarians.
The study found that women in Bolotana experience a pronounced advantage in longevity. On average, women reaching age 70 live to approximately 91, with about one in seven reaching 100. This rate surpasses averages in Sardinia and Italy, and is second only to Hong Kong for life expectancy after 70 and survival to 100 among populations studied internationally.
While men in Bolotana also show a slightly higher life expectancy than the regional and national average, with those reaching 70 expecting to live to 86 and roughly one in 20 reaching 100, the advantage is less pronounced compared to women.
Factors Contributing to Longevity
Researchers are still investigating the precise reasons for Bolotana's exceptional longevity, but several factors are believed to contribute. These include genetic background, dietary patterns, physical activity, strong family and social support, consistent residency, and access to care.
Experts highlight the town’s predominantly plant-based diet, which consists of 90% fruits, vegetables, beans, and pasta, often sourced from local gardens. The regional cuisine also features a significant amount of olives and olive oil. Unlike many areas, Bolotana currently lacks fast-food establishments.
Physical activity is incorporated into daily life due to the hilly terrain, providing residents with regular cardiovascular exercise without the need for dedicated gym facilities. This integration of movement into everyday routines is seen as a key factor.
Other contributing elements cited include a strong reverence for family, deeply rooted faith traditions, and modest wine consumption. These social and cultural aspects, combined with environmental and dietary factors, appear to foster a lifestyle conducive to a long life.