5 reasons for Caucasian longevity (PHOTOS)

The reasons why many people live only half that long are "self-inflicted": poor environmental conditions, poor diet, severe stress, alcohol and smoking. However, the phenomenon of longevity in the Caucasus has long attracted the attention of scientists. Gerontologists even have a special term for this – the "blue zone" –  which refers to regions where the concentration of centenarians (100 years old) in the population is highest. What exactly allows local residents to maintain vigor, vitality and mental clarity well into their 90s? Research and expert opinions identify five main factors that work together. And while it is difficult to completely replicate the Caucasian way of life in a metropolis, each of these five elements is worth considering. 

1. Genetic Factor

Scientists from Kabardino-Balkarian State University have identified ten key genes associated with aging and longevity. The ‘APOE’ gene, which is responsible for cholesterol metabolism and the risk of Alzheimer's disease, has attracted particular attention. Its "favorable" form, the ‘e3 allele’, was significantly more common in people who lived to be 90. In addition, centenarians were less likely to have mutant alleles in genes associated with cardiovascular diseases, oxidative stress and DNA repair (ACE, AGT, PON1, PON2, CAT, BRCA1 and others).

80-year-old resident of the village of Dzuarikau, Dzotsa Tsopanov (center), communicates with schoolchildren

2. Mountain Air

Living at high altitudes, where oxygen levels are lower, is not a hardship, but rather a workout for the body. In response to hypoxia, the body increases red blood cell production and develops a network of blood vessels, which can prolong youth in the long term. Plus, the air is clean and free of industrial emissions. For many Caucasian villages, this is their natural habitat and one of the key natural factors for health.

Dagestan. View of the Salatau Ridge in the Kazbekovsky District.

3. Traditional Diet

The diet of Caucasian centenarians is based on basic, natural foods. Fermented milk products (milk, matsoni, cheeses), for example, are a daily staple. They promote healthy gut microflora and reduce the risk of developing diseases, including cancer. Plant-based foods also play an important role: an abundance of vegetables, legumes, greens and melons provides the body with fiber and vitamins. Even spicy condiments – like ‘adjika’ sauce with red pepper – are beneficial, according to some scientists: they help normalize blood pressure and improve blood circulation.

Elders at the table in Grozny

4. Natural Physical Activity

Most Caucasian centenarians engage in physical labor throughout their lives, often in the mountains and in the fresh air. This isn't grueling exercise, but, rather, daily, organic exercise: gardening, tending to livestock and hiking over rough and rugged terrain. This regimen keeps muscles toned and supports the cardiovascular system.

A resident of the village of Sogratl, Gunibsky District, Republic of Dagestan

5. Strong family & absence of chronic stress

An important social factor is caring for the elderly. Elderly people in the Caucasus are not alone: ​​they are surrounded by the attention of numerous relatives and feel needed and appreciated. This family connection reduces stress levels. Furthermore, Abkhazian centenarians, for example, typically follow a strict daily routine: meals, work and rest are all scheduled according to a consistent rhythm, which reduces stress on the nervous system. In contrast to the hustle and bustle of the city and competition, peace and the ability to enjoy simple things prevail.

Republic of Dagestan. Resident of Derbent