Hunza is at a very high altitude in the Himalayan Mountains of Asia. There, many people over one hundred years of age are still in good physical health. Additionally, men of ninety are father, and women of fifty still have babies. What are the reasons for this good health? Scientists believe that the people of Hunza have these three main advantages or benefits: (1) a healthful unpolluted environment with clean air and water; (2) a simple diet high in vitamins, fiber, and nutrition but low in fat, cholesterol, sugar, and unnatural chemicals; and (3) physical work and other activities, usually in the fields or with animals.
People in the Caucasus Mountains in Russia are also famous for their longevity. Official birth records were not available, but the community says a woman called Tsurba lived until age 160. Similarly, a man called Shirali probably lived until 168; moreover, his widow was 120 years old. In general, the people not only live along time, but they also live well. In other words, they are almost never sick. Furthermore, when they die, they not only have their own teeth but also a full head of hair, and good eyesight too.
Vilcabamba, Ecuador, is another area famous for the longevity of its inhabitants. This mountain region –like Hunza and the Caucasus –is also at a very high altitude, far away from cities. In Vilcabamba, too, there is very little serious disease. One reason for the good health of the people might be the clean, beautiful environment; another advantage is the moderate climate. The temperature is about 70 degrees Fahrenheit all year long; furthermore,