Although it is hard to argue with the benefits of the lifestyles of the Blue Zone inhabitants, as a retired cardiologist, I remain skeptical.

Much of Buettner's data is anecdotal and, at times, contradictory. For example, he praises the Ikari Islanders for their wine consumption. Yet, he also extolls the lifestyle of the Seven Day Adventists in Blue Zone Loma Linda. Yet, the Adventists mostly discourage the use of alcohol.

He was instrumental in setting up a Blue Zone in Albert Lea, Mn, in 2009, but there is zero follow-up to see if the successes from a decade ago have been sustained. Extended longevity is inferred, not measured, from surrogate markers like less obesity, better BP, etc., rather than documented longer old age.

These areas of the world are largely isolated with minimal to no influx of newcomers. Thus, genetics likely plays as much or more of a role in their longevity as lifestyle.