LONGEVITY

GRECIAN SECRETS TO LIVING LONGER

Since one-third of the population lives to at least 90 years of age, have 20% less cancer and half the rate of heart disease,with hardly any dementia reported, scientists readily turn to the Ikarian’s when searching for longevity secrets. In a new study in Vascular Medicine,published by SAGE, researchers examining cardiovascular health discovered that a cup of boiled Greek coffee may be a sterling clue to these elderly islanders’ fantastic health status. This may be because boiled Greek coffee is not your average cup of Joe; it is very rich in polyphenols and antioxidants, while being fairly low in caffeine.

In addition to their low-caffeine, high-quality coffee consumption, Ikarians consume very little meat and dairy. Their diet is made up of home-grown organic beans, nuts, fruit, vegetables and herbs. They also use olive oil in many dishes. And the Ikarian culture maintains a relaxed and festive spirit. They indulge in hard work and the great outdoors, getting fresh air and sunshine regularly. All of these components, along with their morning boiled cup of coffee, is evidently adding healthy years to their lives.

THE ELDERLY RESIDENTS OF THE RURAL GREEK ISLAND OF IKARIA BOAST THE HIGHEST RATES OF LONGEVITY IN THE WORLD, LEADING MANY TO WONDER, WHAT’S THE GRECIAN SECRET?

HOW TO MAKE GREEK COFFEE:

In a *Briki pot, add 2 cups of water and 2 tsps of fine ground, espresso type Greek coffee. Bring to a boil. Watch for the foam to rise. Remove from heat. Let cool a bit. Make sure the grinds settle to the bottom of the cup, then sip. *Briki pots are a specialized pot with a long handle, used exclusively for making Greek coffee. They come in 2, 4, and 6 demitasse cup sizes.

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