Blue Zones are regions of the world where people are not only living longer but flourishing. The term “Blue Zones” is credited to Dan Buettner from National Geographic and there are five of them, including Loma Linda.
The Seventh-Day Adventist community is said to be the main reason why Loma Linda was identified as a Blue Zone in 2004. But, are there other reasons?
Loma Linda and the Seventh-Day Adventist lifestyle is a bit of a mystery, so let’s uncover it together.
Where Is Loma Linda?
Loma Linda is a small town in sunny southern California, making it the only known Blue Zone in the U.S.
What Is the Average Lifespan in Loma Linda?
There are over 9,000 people in Loma Linda’s Seventh-Day Adventist community, a conservative denomination of the Christian faith. The Seventh-Day Adventist church was founded in the 1840s and its members view health as central to their faith.
People in this community tend to live up to 10 years longer than the average American. The average life expectancy in the United States is currently about 77.28 years.
What Do They Eat in Loma Linda?
The Seventh-Day Adventist community is vegetarian and doesn’t smoke, drink or have caffeine. The food plan of their centenarians (people who live over 100) is similar to a Mediterranean diet which prioritises whole foods, healthy fats and tons of fruit and vegetables. It’s roughly made up of:
- 30% vegetables
- 30% fruit
- 10% beans and dairy
- 7% whole grains
- Less than 1% sugar
- Nuts, added fats and meat (a small portion as a side dish if they eat it)
Beans are a cornerstone of the Seventh-Day Adventist diet and often incorporated into meals. They are high in fibre, protein and other nutrients.
Nuts are a popular snack for Adventists, especially pistachios, almonds and walnuts. In fact, those who eat nuts five times a week have a 50% less chance of getting heart disease and also live two years longer on average.
Another study found that Adventist women who ate tomatoes three to four times a week had a 70% lower chance of ovarian cancer than the women in the community who didn’t.
Although there are also those who would argue that Loma Linda's impressive lifespan is less to do with their light plant-based diet and more to do with their abstinence from alcohol and cigarettes.
What Does a Regular Day Look Like in Loma Linda?
Loma Linda’s Seventh-Day Adventist community have some unique practices that we can all learn from to boost longevity.
Light Meals and Exercise
The Seventh-Day Adventists in Loma Linda are very health conscious and drink plenty of water. They will frequently go on long walks and hikes, as well as watch what they’re eating. They tend to have a bigger breakfast, a small lunch and a light dinner.
A light dinner in the evening prevents the body from being overcome with calories during the inactive parts of the day. This allows for better sleep and a lower BMI. A lower BMI also results in lower blood cholesterol, lower blood pressure and less cardiovascular disease.
Worship and Prayer
Adventists believe it’s important to have a daily connection with God, applying to prayer and other forms of devotion. To get in touch with God every day is to strengthen their relationship with Him.
On Saturdays Adventists have a 24-hour Sabbath where they pray together and refrain from thinking about work. It provides a time to focus on family, God and nature to relieve stress, strengthen social bonds and allow consistent exercise.
Some common activities in Loma Linda include mountain biking, going to the beach, walking in nature and playing games outside. It’s all about relaxing and enjoying time spent with loved ones.
Community Volunteerism
As well as a strong sense of faith, Adventists are passionate about volunteering in the community. Loma Linda’s Seventh-Day Adventists are very involved in the church and also have a “love thy neighbour” mentality. They are helpful, warm and welcome.
Volunteering in the community and giving back to others also helps Loma Linda’s Adventist centenarians stay active and find a sense of purpose in their everyday lives. Long-standing research has shown that the strength of social connections can bring joy and happiness to help you live a long and healthy life, wherever you are in the world.
In summary, Loma Linda's status as a Blue Zone is a testament to the profound impact of faith, community, and healthy living. The Seventh-Day Adventist community's commitment to a plant-based diet, regular physical activity, and spiritual practices has created a model for longevity and well-being. Their focus on volunteerism and social bonds enriches their lives, fostering a sense of purpose and belonging that transcends the physical benefits of their lifestyle. As we uncover the core values of Loma Linda, it becomes clear that living longer and flourishing is deeply rooted in the holistic approach of nurturing the body, mind, and spirit. By embracing these principles, we can all take steps towards a healthier, more fulfilling life, no matter where we are.
