Centenarians Attribute Longevity to Yogurt and Active Lifestyles in Turkey

Two long-lived Turkish individuals, Şemsi Kılıç, who reached 110 years of age, and Dudu Candan, aged 106, consistently attribute their healthy longevity to disciplined, natural living habits. These figures, having observed significant societal shifts, concur that natural nutrition forms a primary pillar for maintaining vitality into advanced age. A shared element in their health philosophy is the regular consumption of yogurt, a practice supported by scientific findings regarding the role of probiotics in long-term well-being.

Dudu Candan, born in 1920, emphasized moderation in her daily diet, ensuring ample intake of green vegetables alongside generous amounts of yogurt. Şemsi Kılıç, who recently ceased physical labor, offered direct counsel to younger generations: increase consumption of yogurt and butter, and crucially, remain actively engaged in work. Both centenarians firmly state that the combination of a diet prioritizing natural products and maintaining a dynamic lifestyle is the essential key to reaching advanced age.

Scientific research indicates that plain, unsweetened yogurt is an excellent source of natural probiotics, supporting optimal gut microbiome health. This balance of intestinal flora is believed to help reduce systemic inflammation, a condition frequently associated with various chronic diseases. Probiotics, such as *Lactobacillus* and *Bifidobacterium* found in yogurt, help counteract harmful bacteria and support the absorption of vital nutrients like calcium and protein.

Furthermore, studies suggest that probiotics in yogurt can aid in restoring bacterial balance after disturbances, such as antibiotic-induced diarrhea, and may help alleviate symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) in some individuals. Beyond digestive benefits, yogurt is rich in other essential nutrients, including protein for tissue repair and Vitamin B12, which is critical for nerve function.

In certain Turkish regions, such as the village of Bagarasi in Bitlis Province, extreme longevity is relatively common, with residents linking their ages beyond one hundred to the consumption of local organic products, including self-produced milk and yogurt. This concept of a natural food-oriented healthy lifestyle aligns with the 'slow living' ethos observed in some Turkish cities, which prioritizes quality of life, mindfulness, and balance over a fast-paced existence.

Although Kılıç and Candan originate from backgrounds distinct from major urban centers, their principles—natural diet and activity—reflect values maintained in rural Turkey, where locally grown and produced goods are prioritized. For instance, in the village of Kilic, home to approximately 120 residents of Turkish-Kurdish ethnicity, a deep reliance on garden produce, such as pistachios, demonstrates a strong connection to local food sources. Consistency in beneficial habits, whether selecting fermented foods like yogurt or maintaining physical activity levels, appears to be the common thread connecting the remarkable longevity of these Turkish centenarians.

Overall, the accounts of Şemsi Kılıç and Dudu Candan offer a strong perspective on lifestyle-driven geriatrics, where functional foods rich in active cultures, like yogurt, are combined with sustained engagement in daily activities as a proven strategy for reaching one hundred years with relatively sound health.