Catalonia region potentially holds characteristics of a ‘Blue Zone’

Researcher Manel Esteller, head of the Cancer Epigenetics group at the Sant Pau Research Institute, has proposed that the area between Olot and Vic in Catalonia may function as a ‘Blue Zone’—a geographic region known for high concentrations of long-lived individuals.

This hypothesis follows the study of Maria Branyas, a supercentenarian who lived to 117 and resided in Olot during her final years. Esteller suggests that the region shares common longevity factors found in other Mediterranean Blue Zones, such as Sardinia and Ikaria, including a favorable climate and the Mediterranean diet.

Research into Branyas’s life highlights several contributing habits, including maintaining cognitive and physical activity through reading, writing, playing the piano, and walking. Other significant factors identified include strong social connections, balanced nutrition, and the ability to manage stress and grief. Esteller recommends prioritizing vegetables, fish, and fermented products while reducing ultra-processed foods.