Loma Linda
California — The Adventist advantage
years average gain
years longer than avg American
smoking & drinking
The Sabbath Sanctuary
Seventh-day Adventists observe Saturday Sabbath—24 hours of rest, worship, and nature. No work, no stress. This weekly reset reduces cortisol, deepens relationships, and provides sacred time for reflection.
Biblical Diet
Many are vegetarian, following Genesis 1:29—"Every seed-bearing plant." They eat nuts (5+ servings/week adds 2 years), whole grains, legumes, and fruits. Meat is rare. Processed food is avoided. The body is a temple.
No Smoking, No Drinking
Adventist doctrine forbids tobacco and alcohol. This single factor accounts for much of their longevity advantage. No lung cancer, no liver disease, no drunk driving. Clean living as a spiritual practice.
Faith Community
Research shows attending religious services 4x per month adds 4-14 years. Loma Linda Adventists have built-in community, shared values, and social support. They're never alone in crisis.