Ikaria, a small Greek island known for its picturesque landscapes and pleasant weather, is recognized for its residents’ exceptional longevity and remarkably low rates of dementia. Dan Buettner, a longevity expert, discussed the island’s unique health benefits on the Live Well Be Well podcast.
According to Dan, people from Ikaria live about eight years longer than US citizens, largely without dementia. During his conversation with Sarah Ann Macklin, he highlighted that there were only three mild cases of dementia among individuals over 65. This discovery was based on an exploration of various global regions known for their high life expectancies.
Dan suggests that one factor contributing to Ikaria’s low dementia rates is the habit of drinking herbal tea. Many Ikarians drink a cup of herbal tea daily, often using wild herbs harvested from the island and sweetened with local honey. The tea contains mild diuretics, anti-oxidants, and anti-inflammatory properties.
Dan also notes the significance of coffee in the diet of Ikarians and other longevity hotspots. Consuming “copious amounts” of coffee is linked to decreased incidence of dementia and Parkinson’s disease. Research supports this observation, suggesting that individuals who drink two to three cups of coffee and tea daily could lower their risk of developing dementia or experiencing a stroke by about 30 percent.
While further details on dementia can be found on the NHS website, Dan’s findings provide valuable insights into the unique health benefits of Ikaria.
Source: https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/health/locals-swear-same-two-drinks-34679554