Secrets of Centenarian Longevity: Diet and Medication Insights
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Living beyond 100 years is a remarkable achievement often attributed to a unique blend of diet and medication. Centenarians, individuals who live to be 100 or older, typically maintain a healthy lifestyle characterized by a balanced diet and minimal medication use. They consume a diet rich in carbohydrates (60%), moderate in protein (19%), and fats (29%), with over 60% enjoying diverse food choices and less than 20% preferring salty foods. This dietary pattern, combined with low smoking rates (7%) and regular physical activity (23%), significantly contributes to their exceptional longevity.
Moreover, centenarians frequently use antihypertensives and cardiovascular medications, averaging 4.6 different medications. Common health issues include hypertension (43%) and dementia (41%), but their lifestyle choices mitigate severe health decline. Their tendency to live in rural areas (78%) and report high sleep satisfaction (68%) further supports their overall well-being. Understanding these factors provides valuable insights into promoting healthy aging for the broader population.
This comprehensive review underscores the importance of diet, medication, and lifestyle in achieving longevity. By adopting similar habits, individuals may improve their chances of living longer, healthier lives. The rural lifestyle and sleep hygiene of centenarians offer additional clues for developing effective healthcare strategies to support aging populations worldwide.