IKARIA- The island where people live longer

Nutrition and health project by Alithini P.

66th school of Athens2015

Ikaria (or Icaria- in Greek: Ικαρία), is a Greek island in the Aegean Sea, 10 nautical miles southwest of Samos. The island took its name from Icarus, the son of Daedalus. In Greek mythology Icarus, flew from Crete using wings made of candle and fell into the sea near Ikaria.

• The principal town of the island is Agios Kirykos.

• In ancient time the capital of the island was Oenoe.

• One of the largest towns is Evdilos.

• On this beautiful island you will find people who live longer than anywhere else on Earth.

• The reason why they success that is their lifestyle.

The secrets of the Ikarian are:

1. THE IKARIAN DIET: • This is a variation of the

Mediterranean diet.• This kind of diet lowers the risk

of heart disease and potentially increase life expectancy by 6 years. It’s high in vegetables and beans and low in meat and sugar.

• Ikarian diet contains Extra Virgin olive oil. The oil contains natural antioxidants associated with a lower risk of heart disease and cancer.

2. GOAT MILK: • Most people on the island who

live beyond age 90, drink goat milk almost every week.

• Goat milk is easier to digest than cow's milk. It's also high in tryptophan, which reduces stress hormones and lowers the risk of heart disease.

3. WILD GREENS AND HERBALS: Over 150 varieties of wild greens and herbals grow on Ikaria. • Wild greens are a rich source of

antioxidants and a key part of the plant-based diet.

• Ikarian herbals contain compounds that lower blood pressure and risk of heart attack.

5. MOUNTAIN LIVING: • Ikarians get their daily exercise

without thinking about it. They walk long distances and they work hard.

7. DAILY NAPS: • One cherished custom of

Ikarians is the mid-day siesta or afternoon nap.

• Taking a 30-minute nap at least five times per week decreases the chance of heart attack by one-third.

• It also reduces stress and makes you look and feel younger.

6. LOW SENSE OF TIME URGENCY: • People don't wear watches in

Ikaria. • Showing up late is also socially

accepted. This attitude reduces stress and wrinkles.

8. STRONG SENSE OF COMMUNITY: • Family and community support

are extremely important. • Strong social connections have

been show to lower depression, death and body weight.

• Local festivals (panigiria) are a great way for people to bond with each other.

• People drink ikarian wine and dance the Ikariotiko (the local dance) until morning.