The Japanese diet is considered by health experts to be one of the healthiest in the world. Life expectancy is the highest, and obesity has only recently become an issue with the infiltration of western fast foods.
The people of Okinawa, an island and prefecture of Japan, enjoy particularly vibrant health. They have a history of slow aging with delayed and often non existent chronic diseases including dementia, cardiovascular disease (coronary heart disease and stroke) and cancer.
So what components make up this health giving diet?
Cruciferous Vegetables
The Japanese consume about five times the amount of cruciferous vegetables as the average westerner. Cruciferous vegetables include cabbage, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, Chinese cabbage, cauliflower, kale, watercress, radishes, parsnips, and turnips. Cruciferous vegetables slow down the enzymes that activate carcinogenic substances, and speed up enzymes that detoxify carcinogens.
Shitake Mushrooms
A symbol of longevity in Japan due to their health-promoting properties, Shiitake mushrooms have been used as a medicine as well as a tasty culinary addition for more than 6,000 years. They are most known for invigorating the immune system and fighting against disease and illness. They also lower cholesterol and are a powerful antioxidant.
Fish
The Japanese diet abounds with fish, consumed at more than 154 pounds per person per year,almost one-half pound per day. Fish that is rich in essential fatty acids is generally eaten daily, especially in the Okinawa region. Essential fats are known for a range of health benefits including reduced heart disease, lowered cholesterol, and improved brain function among them.
Seaweed
Kombu (from warm waters) and Nori (from cold waters) seaweeds are plentiful in Japan. These contain high amounts of iodine as well as minerals and microelements which impart robust health as well as being flavoursome.
Tofu
This is a good source of protein and is packed with nutrients necessary for good health. It has been shown to lower cholesterol and improve cardiovascular function.Additionally, most types of tofu are enriched with calcium, which can help prevent the accelerated bone loss for which women are at risk during menopause.It is also provides energy and is rich in antioxidant minerals. Selenium, a trace mineral is particularly abundant in tofu, with its anti-Cancer and anti-Inflammatory properties along with a wide variety of other benefits.
Green Tea
Green tea has been linked with a reduced risk of cancer in both men and women. Research has found that individuals who consume green tea tend to have lower blood levels of cholesterol. Studies have also shown a decrease in blood pressure. Green tea consumption is linked with a reduced risk of stroke and heart disease.
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