Healthy Japanese Diets

There are areas of Japan that enjoy a very vibrant health. Okinawa, an island area of Japan, boasts a population with slower than average aging.

There is also less cancer, stroke, dementia, and coronary heart disease. So which components of this diet seem to promote these health saving benefits?

Here is a list of the most helpful dietary components used by the Japanese to promote their healthy lifestyle:

1. The high amounts of cruciferous vegetables consumed in the diet are about five time as much as people in the West. Broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, parsnips, radishes, kale, and turnips are all cruciferous vegetables. These vegetables are known to slow the enzymes that can cause cancer, as well as remove the carcinogenic toxins from the enzymes.

2. Shitake mushrooms have been a symbol of longevity in the Japanese culture for over 6,000 years. These mushrooms have been used to make medicines and culinary masterpieces. However, the most benefits from shitake musrooms are to the immune system. They help to fight off illness and disease, and are a very powerful antioxidant. Shitake mushrooms also help to lower cholesterol.

3. Fish is one of Japan’s mainstays in their diet. More than 150 pounds of fish is consumed by each Japanese person each year. That’s almost a half a pound of fish per day. The fatty acids found in most fish are now known to help reduce cholesterol, lower the risk of heart disease, and also improve brain function.

4. Seaweed is very abundant in Japan as well. Iodine is found in high concentrations in seaweed, which can help boost feeling of health and vitality. These are great examples of Healthy Japanese diets.

5. Tofu is also a mainstay in a typical healthy Japanese diet. It lowers cholesterol and helps to improve heart health. Now, most of the tofu products have added calcium, which helps to slow the loss of bone mass, which is very prevalent in menopausal Asian women. Selenium is found in tofu and is well known for its ability to help prevent cancer and inflammatory problems.

6. Green tea reduces the risks of cancer, as well. New studies now show that cholesterol is significantly lower in people who consume three cups of green tea daily. These people will also have lower blood pressure and a lowered risk of heart disease and stroke.

While a healthy Japanese diet may not be for everyone, it’s plain to see that this country is definitely on the right track for healthy living.

The influx of the western culture and its food has not helped to keep all Japanese people eating as healthy as they were, however. There are now several fast food chains available in Japan, which is leading to an increase in obesity in Japan.

The key is to eat fast foods in moderation or not at all. While it’s often easier said than done, it will make a difference in your future health.