Current Research in Nutrition and Food Science - An open access, peer reviewed international journal covering all aspects of Nutrition and Food Science

Blue Zone Dietary Patterns, Telomere Length Maintenance, and Longevity: A Critical Review

Priyanka Mohol^1*, Anindita Ghosh²and Shilpa Kulkarni²

¹Longevity researcher and Consultant, Rewrite and Relive Longevity Services, Pune, India.

²Department of Nutrition, Symbiosis Skill and Professional University, Pune, India.

Corresponding Author E-mail:priyanka27mohol@gmail.com

Blue Zones are regions known for exceptional longevity and lower reported incidences of some chronic diseases, potentially linked to their unique dietary patterns. This review critically examines the nutritional practices of five Blue Zones—Okinawa, Sardinia, Nicoya, Ikaria, and Loma Linda—focusing on their contributions to health, longevity, and telomere length maintenance, a marker of cellular ageing. Blue Zone diets are predominantly plant-based, emphasising whole grains, legumes, fruits, and vegetables, with moderate consumption of meat and milk products. Fermented foods, rich in probiotics, are commonly consumed and play a role in reducing inflammation and supporting gut health. The Okinawan practice of "hara hachi bu" (eating until 80% full) exemplifies the role of caloric restriction in reducing oxidative stress and slowing ageing, particularly in this specific population. This review aims to evaluate the effect of Blue Zone dietary patterns on chronic disease prevention and cellular ageing mechanisms. A systematic review of peer-reviewed studies published between 2000 and 2024 was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, web of Science, and Google Scholar databases, and sixteen studies were critically analysed for dietary practices. Findings indicate that these diets are linked to improved health outcomes, including markers of reduced risk for cardiovascular disease, cancer, and diabetes, in studies conducted in Blue Zone populations. These diets promote cellular health through anti-inflammatory and antioxidant-rich foods, which help preserve telomere length, a critical factor in delaying the ageing process. While the findings suggest that Blue Zone dietary practices are associated with longevity and some chronic disease prevention, these observations are largely population-specific and influenced by regional cultural and environmental factors. Incorporating these principles into public health policies could enhance health outcomes and extend lifespan across diverse populations.

Blue Zone Diets; Chronic Diseases;  Epigenetic Effects; Longevity; Mediterranean Diet; Plant-Based Nutrition; Telomere

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