In Costa Rica staying healthy is less about doctors’ visits and medication than about living a simple healthy lifestyle in natural surroundings. The ocean breezes, friendly people, and fresh food all contribute to Costa Rica’s longer than average life span. Here are some of the reasons that Costa Ricans live long happy lives.

1. Diet

The average Costa Rican eats a fairly simple diet with a lot of chicken, pork, fish, rice, beans, vegetables, and fruits all which is fresh from freias, bakeries and butchers. Costa Ricans load their diet with tons of fresh produce which is available year round due to their tropical climate. Their diet also consists of high fiber corn and beans. By eating fresh they avoid preservatives and artificial ingredients.

2. Eating lightly

Costa Rican’s probably don’t know the meaning of the term, “Super Size It.” They tend to avoid over indulging and eat light dinners in the early evening. Eating fewer calories is proven to add years to your life while obesity takes years off.

3. Water

With loads of calcium, their hard water produces strong bones and fewer hip fractures. There is no need for orange juice fortified with calcium or supplements when all you have to do is drink the water.

4. Family focus

The family unit is highly valued in Costa Rican culture. Children usually live with their parents until they are married. Close extended families are very common, and generations of family members often live together in harmony. Family life in Costa Rica is usually the center of social activities.

5. Social networks

Costa Ricans are a social people who live in community and avoid isolation. People here know how to listen, laugh and appreciate what they have.

6. Physically Fit

Costa Rica is a physically fit nation where most people participate in physical work all their lives and find joy in everyday chores.

7. Medical Care

While medical care and prescription drugs are not the focus of a healthy life they are readily available. Costa Rica has one of Latin America's best medical systems and public health care is guaranteed for all citizens.

8. Happiness

According to multiple independent research groups, Costa Rica is the happiest country. Happiness seems to be contagious and its spreading all over Costa Rica. People here live a “pura vida” lifestyle where being carefree and happy is the norm. All these things contribute to the long and happy lifestyles of Costa Ricans. If you want to put more emphasis on living healthy consider moving to or retiring in Costa Rica. Emerge yourself in the life style and all its benefits. Los Cielos Estates has affordable real estate for sale in Costa Rica that would make the perfect retirement home or vacation destination. To learn more about Costa Rica and Los Cielos Estates visit the rest of our website.