Japan is one of the countries with the highest number of centenarians (those who have reached the age of 100) in the world. In particular, the island of ‘Okinawa’ in Japan is one of the five most important ‘Blue Zones’ in the world. There are some lifestyle secrets behind the Japanese living healthy lives without major cancers or heart diseases even in old age. Here are some of them:
‘Hara Hachi Bu’ diet: The biggest secret to the longevity of the Japanese is their simple principle. It means “stop eating when your stomach is 80 percent full.” This is what prevents overeating. This way, calories do not accumulate in the body, the metabolic rate is better, and the risk of obesity and diabetes is eliminated.
A diet full of seafood and antioxidants: Instead of red meat, the Japanese eat plenty of fish and seaweed rich in omega-3. Their diet also includes soybean products such as ‘Tofu’ and fermented foods. Their favorite drink, ‘Matcha Green Tea’, is rich in powerful antioxidants that protect the cells of the body.
‘Ikigai’ or the purpose of life: There is no concept of retirement in Japanese culture. They call ‘Ikigai’ the purpose of life that motivates them to get up every morning. Anything can be ikigai, whether it is art, work, or helping others. This reduces their mental stress and improves brain health, preventing the onset of Alzheimer’s disease.
Walking and active physical activity: Japanese people are not gym goers. Instead, their daily lives are full of physical activity. They take the stairs instead of the elevator, walk to offices and markets, use public transportation (trains), and even in old age, they grow their own vegetable garden and work on it. This keeps their joints and heart healthy.
Strong social ties (Moai): In Okinawa, people form small groups of 5-6 friends called ‘Moai’ from a young age. These groups help each other financially and mentally throughout their lives. This social security, which eliminates isolation and depression, greatly reduces the risk of heart attacks.
