Longevity in Sardinia is the result of a deep connection with the past, where everything that has been done leaves traces: music, culture, art and food. The role of Sardinian women, who have always valued daily life and respected the laws of nature, is of paramount importance. Cultivation and culture have always gone hand in hand, and women have been the custodians of the preservation, transmission and innovation of Sardinian culture and longevity. Very strong is the link between food quality, health and well-being, along with a deep respect for food. For example, if a piece of bread falls on the ground, it is picked up, cleaned and eaten: wasting “sa grazia ‘e Deu” would be unthinkable.
The Mediterranean diet, reinterpreted from a Sardinian perspective, is based on natural and seasonal ingredients. It favors limited meat consumption, plenty of soups with legumes, potatoes and vegetables, and homemade pasta and pistoccu bread. Cottage cheese and low-glycemic index and low-calorie foods, along with seasonal fruits and vegetables, play a key role. Olive oil, a known antioxidant, plays a leading role, while lard is preferred for frying, being lighter than seed oil. Wine, consumed in moderation, also contributes to longevity through flavonoids. Each element of the diet contributes to overall well-being.
The Civargeddu Prenu, or stuffed focaccia, is a traditional dish from different parts of Sardinia, linked to local culinary culture and a symbol of conviviality. This simple but rich recipe is one of the examples of cuisine that has accompanied generations and, even today, keeps alive the link with the land and tradition.