The small Greek island of Ikaria has been hailed as one of the world’s longest living places, with residents enjoying an average eight-year longer life expectancy than US citizens. One key area contributing to this longevity is their low levels of dementia. According to Dan Buettner, a longevity expert, every person aged over 65 in Ikaria had only three mild cases of dementia.
Dan discovered several healthy habits among the islanders that may help explain their low dementia rates. Herbal tea, often consumed daily with local honey and wild herbs, is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties. Coffee consumption also plays a role, with Ikarians drinking “copious amounts” regularly, which has been linked to lower dementia rates.
Research backs up these findings. A 2021 study published in PLOS Medicine found that people who drank two to three cups of coffee and tea per day had approximately 30% lower risk of dementia or stroke compared to non-consumers. By adopting these habits, Ikarians may be staving off the health condition that currently claims thousands of lives in the UK.
Source: https://www.getsurrey.co.uk/news/health/longevity-expert-says-pay-attention-30996586