Curious about the breakfast habits of people who live to be over 100? In Nicoya, Costa Rica, their morning meal is believed to contribute significantly to their longevity.
This daily tradition involves early-morning prep of spicy beans, hand-made corn dough tortillas, and brewing local coffee.
Nutritional Highlights of Nicoya’s Morning Meal
The tortillas, made from whole grains and low in sugar, are an ideal carb source. Mixing the corn dough with wood ash boosts the availability of key nutrients like niacin.
Black beans in the meal are loaded with antioxidants, similar to blueberries, and are beneficial for heart and blood sugar health.
The combination of beans and rice in this meal forms a complete protein, providing all essential amino acids.
And the locally grown “peaberry” coffee adds antioxidants and caffeine for a metabolic boost.