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The Kalash tribe lives in the mountains around the Hunza River valley in northern Pakistan. Their community numbers approximately 87 thousand people. These people are exceptional in that they commonly live past 100 years of age, and many of them even up to 120 years. According to legend, some members of this tribe even lived an incredible 160 years.
Their healthy lifestyle and diet are the reason for their longevity and vitality. They are constantly smiling, strong and have a youthful appearance that shocks anyone who meets them. Their women also give birth up to the age of 65, which is unique in the world.
What does their diet look like?
The basis of their diet is what they grow themselves. Most of their diet consists of raw fruit, vegetables, nuts and especially dried apricots. They also consume cereals such as millet, buckwheat and barley, legumes and small amounts of dairy products and eggs.
They eat meat only rarely – only twice a year, and mainly lamb or chicken. Another interesting habit is the regular consumption of juice from dried apricots during periods when fresh fruit has not yet ripened.
Apricots and health: the secret to being disease-free
The biggest secret of their health lies in apricot kernels. They contain vitamin B17, which is claimed to have strong anti-cancer effects. From these kernels they make oil, which they regularly use in small amounts.
Too high doses could be toxic to the body because they contain cyanide, but in small amounts it helps protect the body. “The prestige of a family is even measured by how many apricot trees their garden has,” locals say.
Not just diet, but also exercise and cold exposure
Besides diet, daily physical activity is an important part of their health. They walk 15 to 20 km on foot every day. They do not overeat – they have only two meals a day: breakfast and lunch. They do not need any dinner, snacks or sweets.
In addition, they regularly bathe in icy water, even at temperatures below freezing. This habit helps strengthen their immune system. And no less important – they laugh and enjoy life every day.
Descendants of ancient Macedonians
They claim to be descendants of soldiers of Alexander the Great, who settled in this area after conquering the territory and founded families here. This theory is also supported by the appearance of many tribe members, who have fair skin, blue eyes and distinct features.
A curiosity is a story from 1984, when a member of the Kalash tribe, Said Abdul Mobudu, flew to London and at passport control confused officials with his date of birth: 1832.
Modern times as a threat
Unfortunately, even this tribe is now being affected by modern times. Industrially processed foods that have made their way to them are causing problems they previously did not have – tooth decay and digestive issues.
Their story is strong evidence that a proper diet, regular exercise, cold exposure and a positive mind are the key to longevity.
What can we learn from them?
If we want to be inspired, we should focus on natural foods without industrial processing, more physical activity and joy in life. Include more fruit, vegetables and legumes in our diet and now and then treat ourselves to an apricot kernel – but always sensibly.
The longevity of the Kalash tribe is no miracle, it is just a lifestyle that we also have the opportunity to try.
