Iowa City becomes a Blue Zones Demonstration Site | News

IOWA CITY, Iowa--Iowa City was officially named a Blue Zones city today by Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield and Healthways during a news conference in Des Moines. Cedar Rapids, Marion, Muscatine, Oskaloosa, and Sioux City were also named demonstration sites.The Blue Zones project is part of Governor Terry Branstad's Healthiest State Initiative and is based on Dan Buettner's 2008 best-selling book, "The Blue Zones: Lessons for Living Longer from the People Who've Lived the Longest". In his book, Buettner's initiatives are guided by nine principles, ranging from diet and exercise to avoiding stress through "downshifting," "knowing your purpose," and being part of the "right tribe."

This Blue Zones designation is just the beginning for these cities, as they start to develop their own Blue Zones Project blueprints, with help from a team of experts to help guide residents to lifestyle changes that have been shown to result in healthier, happier, longer lives.

For more information about the Blue Zones Project and to find resources on how to become involved in project efforts, visit the website at www.bluezonesproject.com.

Submitted Press Release