Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones

Well produced documentary which backs up other research such as active healthy life style, social belonging and community along with the importance of keeping stress levels low.

However nutritionally it's false- the guy pushes his own Vegan and vegetarian agenda, massively over emphasising that diet, claiming all the blue zones are primarily vegan/vegetarian!! The only one this is true for is the evangelical church community in America- ALL the others have meat and dairy in healthy portions as part of a well balanced diet. They do consume a lot of good healthy foods but overall less calories!

Meat and diary are not evil and not eating them will not guarantee you live longer.

Otherwise a good and interesting documentary- basically shaming the modern western world we live in that is stressful, lazy and lonely - it's those things that are killing us early.

It seems that at least one reviewer didn't catch that the blue zone in Okinawa isn't the whole island, rather just a small section, so his comparison to another researchers findings makes no sense. What is really interesting is that it apppears that each blue zone seems to have different habits that all lead to the same result: being healthy and living longer.

Anyway, this is an excellent short series that is well worth a watch. I am far more conscious of health issues than my husband is, but even he loved this documentary. I am a healthy eater, but he really is not, unless I force the issue. While neither of us necessarily wants to live to a hundred (or beyond), after watching this, he is interested in changing his diet, and that's a win for me!!

This is what happens when good intentions get distracted by a large ego. Facts are bundled together after which subjective conclusions are stretched way too far - all while falsely implying "a scientific seal of approval".

It's a shame. If kept on the "rhetorical straight and narrow" - "Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones" - would have presented some interesting hypotheses alongside the possibility to believe there is a viable way forward, "believe" being the operative word. Dan Buettner's use of over-rhetoric throughout, likely, undermines most critical viewers ability to engage in his theories.

NetFlix' initial disclaimer "The following series is designed to entertain and inform - not to provide medical or health advice." is foreboding of what is about to follow. That sentence, pretty much indicates "the issues with this series"; it presents beliefs in a way that deceptively resemble facts. Beliefs are fine, if you want to adhere to them - but that should be by free choice not by implying factuality. If the disclaimer didn't give it away, the introduction provides further hints; "They all follow roughly the exact same formula".

The use of "roughly" and "exactly" as descriptive in the same sentence is fine example of what unfolds as a whole - blurryness. The "trick" that is being pulled is by means of an "old and proven recipe"; put forth a mulitude of facts, draw some uncorroborated conclusion and then wrap them up together, and present them as "sort of scientific".

Dan Buettner appears earnest in his beliefs - his attempts to package said beliefs in "an air of science" less so. He definitely comes across more as a preacher than a scientist. The frequently used over rhetoric doesn't naturally peg him in any part of the scientific community.

It's a shame... the subject being addressed is, arguably, important and the effort put in seemingly great. Much good work (and some bad) is done on a belief basis - it's a shame Buttner doesn't show it for what it is.

Blue Zones got their label from when they were marked with blue ink on the map to indicate areas with high proportion of centenarians. Dan Buettner, a National Geographic writer and bestselling author, takes viewers to Blue Zones all over the world - Okinawa Japan, Sardinia Italy, Ikaria Greece, Nikoya Costa Rica, Loma Linda California and Singapore - to find secrets to long and healthy living.

The tips he found have been in our consciousness for as long as I can remember - healthy food and lifestyle, sense of purpose and relationships, but his presentation brings all of these more into focus.

The most interesting aspect for me are the efforts to apply these tips in the US, like the experiment in Albert Lea, Minnesota. It would really help if the government provides boosts, like providing pedestrian lanes to encourage walking, providing public transport like trains and buses to discourage dependence on cars, or giving housing incentives to children who choose to live near elderly parents. Not only will people have healthier, longer and happier lives, the government would not have to spend as much for healthcare. Everyone wins.

It's refreshing to see a documentary on longevity done so well! They cover so many different locations and focus on other areas of life that are responsible for it instead of digging deep into just the food science behind it all.

What sets it apart is its ability to make complex scientific topics accessible to a general audience. It employs clear explanations, expert commentary, and visuals to ensure that even viewers without prior knowledge of these subjects can follow along.

The documentary also delves into the cultural and societal factors that contribute to longevity. It introduces the concept of "Blue Zones," regions around the world known for their high number of centenarians, and explores how community, diet, and lifestyle play a crucial role in extending life.

A notable strength of the film is its focus on actionable takeaways. It doesn't just provide information; it offers practical advice on how individuals can increase their own chances of living longer, healthier lives. From dietary recommendations to exercise routines and stress management techniques, "Live to 100" offers a roadmap to better living.

Visually, the documentary is a treat. The cinematography skillfully captures the vitality of centenarians and the beauty of Blue Zones landscapes. These visuals enhance the storytelling and provide a compelling backdrop to the film's exploration of longevity.

In summary, It's is a valuable addition to Netflix's documentary lineup. It combines scientific rigor with storytelling, making it accessible to a wide audience. Whether you're interested in the science of aging, seeking inspiration for a healthier lifestyle, or simply curious about the quest for a longer life, this documentary offers something for everyone. It's a reminder that with knowledge and conscious choices, the dream of living a longer, more fulfilling life is within reach for many.