3 Lessons We Can Learn From Nation With Longest-Living Population

Hong Kong did it again! The country, for the second time around, was hailed as the nation that has the longest-lived population in the world. The average lifespan of their men and women are way higher than in other countries.

In Hong Kong, men would live an average of 81.3, while women live longer at an average of 87.3. For the past four decades, the average lifespan of those living in Hong Kong has fairly increased. The numbers have left many to ask what could have been the secret of Hong Kong?

Blue Zones

According to the book entitled "Blue Zones," best selling author Dan Buttner looked at the common traits and factors of nations touted as those with the world's longest-lived populations. In their research, they found that the longevity of individuals is predetermined by his or her genes at 25%, while the remaining 75% is tied to the environment and lifestyle.

Enabled Society

Hong Kong does not isolate or alienate the elderly. They provide their elders with easy access to the outdoors and medical care. They also do outdoor group exercises, as well as immediate exposure to exercise. These characteristics do wonders in ensuring that the elderly live happily.

Nutrition

Hong Kong also ensures that their food choices are healthy. They would go for lean meats and tons of fruits and vegetables. They indulge in traditional foods over the 'modern' ones. As much as possible, many of them don't indulge in carbs.

More Sprightly

The close-knit family in Hong Kong also gives the elderly a distinctive position within their family. In a group, they have this position of privilege, giving them a better purpose in life even in old age. This well-defined purpose contributes to their living longer lives.

So following the example set by Hong Kong residents, the key to living longer has a lot to do with one's food intake, the activities that one engages in, plus the sense of purpose or the self-worth that people have. If you want to increase your life expectancy, follow the way of these residents. You'll never know how many years you would be adding to your life.