How long we live is determined by a multitude of factors. Some of these are beyond our control such as our genetics, injury and illness.
However, others are definitely within our control. What we eat and how regularly we exercise plays a huge role in how long we live, for example.
In fact, these are thought to be the driving factors behind the longevity of people living in the world’s blue zones. These are five areas across the globe where communities live on average longer than anyone else.
The blue zones are Okinawa in Japan, Icaria in Greece, Nuoro Province in Italy, the Nicoya Peninsula in Costa Rica and Loma Linda in California.
While it’s not practical to up and move to these locations, we can adapt our diets based on what they are known to eat.
To make this as simple as possible one online chef shared her recipe for the soup eaten by the “world’s longest living family”, based on the blue zones documentary found on Netflix.
Speaking on TikTok, Carleigh Bodrug – known for her profile Plant You – recommended making a one-pot minestrone soup packed with veggies.
She said: “The world’s longest living family ate a version of this soup every single day.
“The longevity series is back and we’re making minestrone soup inspired by the blue zone documentary, which explores the longest living populations in the world.
“Not surprisingly, the cornerstone of their diet is plants, namely beans, greens and grains.
“This soup checks all those marks and was the everyday lunch of the oldest family in history and now you can enjoy a bowl too.”
Her recipe was approved by Doctor Tim Tiutan, who shared the video via his own TikTok channel.
He commented: “This amazing plant-based soup is full of vitamins and minerals, fibre and more.
“Vegetables are rich in fibre which help control blood sugar levels, lower cholesterol, improve gut health, support weight management and lower cancer risk.
“So many studies support these health benefits!”
Ingredients needed for the soup are as follows:
- Carrot
- Celery
- Onion
- Potato
- Seasonings
- Garlic
- Crushed tomatoes
- Broth
- Beans
- Pasta or barley
- Basil.
Via her Plant You website, Carleigh says: “Start by dicing all the ingredients and getting your work station ready.
“Heat a large soup pot over medium heat. Saute the garlic and onion with a couple of tablespoons of water for about three minutes.
“Next, add carrot, celery, potato, oregano, salt and pepper. Keep cooking for five to six minutes until the potato and carrot have softened slightly.
“Finally, pour in vegetable broth and empty the cans of tomatoes and chickpeas into the pot. Add the pasta and bring the contents to a boil.
“Turn down the heat to a simmer and cook your minestrone soup uncovered for 12 to 15 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy!”
