Japan has the highest number of people above the age of 100 than any other country. While it is true that genetics plays an important role in longevity, however, studies indicate that Japanese diet and lifestyle practices are also major contributor. The Japanese archipelago of Okinawa has the highest concentration of centenarians in Japan. Let’s take a look at the secrets behind good health, long life, and happiness in Japanese society.
Japanese Secrets to Good Health
Ikigai- Ikigai is an ancient Japanese philosophy that preaches to people to seek joy and purpose in life rather than merely existing. This philosophy preaches finding an activity that brings you peace of mind, fulfilment, and self-acceptance, helps you stay in the present, and even finds you the joy in small things. It says instead of looking for instant gratification, we must find the best way to contribute to the world.
Seaweed- Japanese diet is full of many nutritious items but none more than seaweed. Seaweed is a staple in the Japanese diet and provides them with essential nutrients such as iodine, iron, zinc, copper, omega-3 fatty acids, fibre, protein, and antioxidants. The iodine present in seaweed stimulates the thyroid gland and helps it release hormones to repair damaged cells, energy production, and control growth. The vitamins and minerals present in seaweed also protect our cells from oxidative stress caused by free radicals. It also helps also lose weight by reducing hunger.
Eat for health and exercise- The practice of ‘hara hachi bu’ or eat for health and exercise teaches us to treat our body like a temple and to not pollute it with harmful elements like alcohol and cigarettes. The Japanese diet is not very calorie-dense as it mostly contains fresh fruit, vegetables, and legumes. Plus, the chief carbohydrate in the Japanese diet is not rice or bread but sweet potato, which has a low glycemic load and is a rich source of antioxidants that promotes overall health and even slows down the ageing process.
Drink green tea- Green tea is slowly gaining traction worldwide as a beverage but for centuries it has been a part of everyday Japanese life. Green tea is an excellent source of polyphenol, a plant compound that exhibits antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It feeds the friendly bacteria present in our gut and protects our cells from all kinds of damage that can promote chronic diseases.
Eat slowly- In Japan, eating meals together as a family is a daily custom. Eating a meal together with friends and family helps them increase their bond and socialize with other people. That is why people eat their meals slowly and are not in a hurry to leave the table. Japanese people also tend to chew their food properly for better digestion.
Eat until you are almost full- There is a popular philosophy in Japan that says that you should eat food until you are only 80% full. This is a form of mindful eating and it ensures that you don’t overdo it with your food. In order to practice this philosophy, ask yourself before starting a meal ‘How hungry am I?’ or ‘Do I need to continue eating a few more bites?’
Walk everywhere- Japanese people like to stay active every day by walking, taking the stairs, and squatting. Even though Japan is known for manufacturing some of the best motorbikes and cars in the world, many people still walk to easily accessible places.
Have strong social circles- Japanese people enjoy better physical and emotional well-being in old age because staying socially connected is built into the Japanese culture. Carve out some time to see other people or join support groups in order to combat loneliness.
