Blue Zone: Loma Linda

Daniel and Vicki Fontoura are among the thousands of Seventh-day Adventists who live in Loma Linda. The Adventists believe in taking care of one’s body and eschewing alcohol and tobacco. Many are vegetarian. The church’s teachings are among the reasons why Loma Linda has the Blue Zone distinction of having more long-living, healthy residents than usual.

Betty Streifling, 101, on her morning walk in Loma Linda, a Blue Zone that is listed as one of the five healthiest places in the world.

Irene Bliss, 90, participates in a morning exercise class at Linda Valley Care Center.

Although Loma Linda has been recognized for its healthy population, the smog in that part of the Los Angeles area is a worry and is part of a new study using data from Loma Linda University.

Morning exercise class at Linda Valley Care Center in Loma Linda.

Loma Linda Medical Center and University has a wealth of information from studies that often relied on the Seventh-day Adventist population in the city.

Students walk to Loma Linda University Church of Seventh-day Adventists for 11 a.m. services. The faith-based community is considered part of the reason for lower stress levels.

Students at Loma Linda University Church of Seventh-day Adventists attend regular morning services.

Preston Stewart, 28, a third-year dental student, plays with a flying disk during a lunch break at Loma Linda University. Behind him, “The Good Samaritan” sculpture on the campus mall is a graphic representation of a Christian parable of kindness.

Betty Streifling, 101, during her morning exercise class at Linda Valley Care Center in Loma Linda.