Longevity expert Dan Buettner has spent years investigating Blue Zones, regions around the world where locals defy the odds by living to 100 at an unusually high rate.

In his quest to uncover the secrets of these longevity-rich areas, Dan identified several foods and beverages that could be key contributors to the residents' extended lifespans. These range from exotic delicacies to everyday items readily available in any supermarket for less than a pound.

Coffee

One such item is coffee. Dan noted its "copious amounts" of consumption in longevity hotspots like Ikaria, Sardinia, and Nicoya.

In his book, The Blue Zones Secrets for Living Longer, he suggested that this popular beverage is associated with lower rates of Parkinson's disease, a claim supported by scientific research.

A study published in May 2000, titled Association of Coffee and Caffeine Intake With the Risk of Parkinson Disease, found a significant correlation between coffee consumption and the likelihood of developing Parkinson's disease.

The researchers concluded: "Our findings indicate that higher coffee and caffeine intake is associated with a significantly lower incidence of PD."

In their research, they unearthed a crucial factor - it was the caffeine in coffee that emerged as key. They emphasised: "The data suggests that the mechanism is related to caffeine intake and not to other nutrients contained in coffee."

Red wine

Switching to the subject of red wine, many may be surprised to learn that this beverage is quite popular among the health-conscious residents of Blue Zones, with moderation being the guiding principle. Echoing their balanced approach, Dan Buettner conveyed: "People in most blue zones drink one to three small glasses of red wine per day, often with a meal and with friends."

Experts have also identified how red wine, when consumed responsibly, can benefit heart health. A study outlined by the National Library of Medicine suggests a link between red wine and heart health: "Benefits from moderate alcohol consumption have been widely supported by the scientific literature and, in this line, red wine intake has been related to a lesser risk for coronary heart disease (CHD)."

Water

However, the conversation isn't solely about indulging in alcohol; as staying hydrated is equally lauded for its health benefits. In a chat with the Daily Express last year, Dr Sunni Patel from Dish Dash Deets shone a light on the virtues of water: "Drinking an adequate amount of water helps maintain proper blood volume and promotes optimal blood circulation."

He emphasised the importance of staying hydrated, remarking: "Sufficient hydration ensures that blood flows smoothly through the blood vessels, reducing the chances of clot formation.

"Water helps dilute the concentration of certain components in the blood, such as fibrinogen and platelets, which are involved in blood clot formation."