Introduction
Who wouldn't like to have a healthy and long life? I’m sure everyone would! So have you ever given a thought, to how it could be manifested? Well, it isn't rocket science, also science has even proven with the study to increase longevity.
With the expansion of pharmaceuticals across the globe, life expectancy has risen to an extent. The cure for almost everything is instantly available and has made it accessible to everyone, yet, it fails to match up with the life expectancy percentage from decades ago. The major reason figured is the lifestyle which is gradually affecting the quality of our lives.
The inclination of a life with good health is what most people dream of. The Health database reveals that Japan stood first amongst the other nations in terms of life expectancy till the 1990s. Thereafter it was led by Hong Kong. However, Japan still continues to be in the headlines for maintaining its lineage and people are admiring the same.
Source: Worldometers
Nagano Ranks Number 1
The city of Nagano in Japan is ranked first among the other 47 prefectures with reference to longevity. The residents of Nagano followed the extreme regime enforced by the government and health officials after the nation faced severe backlash for the increase in mortality rate due to the high consumption of salty food intake. The salt was added to food to preserve it therefore, consuming the same led to citizens losing their life from strokes and high blood pressure.
Once referred to as ‘saltiest residents’, saw a major shift in the mortality rate with the health programme introduced. Lessing the consumption of salt was the first initiative that was adopted, followed by a change in diet, moving to a healthier side. This aided the citizen in minimising health-related concerns, thus decreasing the mortality rate and increasing the expectancy rate.
Healthy Lifestyles Come with a Healthy Diet
Several research revealed that the Japanese are following a special diet which is lowering the risk of health-related problems. The unique diet garnered the attention of the media. The decline in the percentage of cases of cerebrovascular disease and stomach cancer contributed to the expectancy rate. Consumption of a proper diet such as limiting the intake of salt in food pictured a tremendous change in their life.
Swapping red meat proportion with seafood kept the cholesterol and cerebrovascular diseases in check, which is also contributing to maintaining the BMI. The obesity figures are decreased with the addition of seafood like fish and greens in their diet.
‘Hara Hachi Bun Me’, is a popular phrase said in Japanese which means ‘to eat until you are 80% full’.
If you have ever wondered what a Japanese plate (meal) looks like.
The classic plate of Japanese people includes less processed food, concentrating more on its natural form and eating in the right proportion. Steamed rice, soybean, fish seasoned with natural flavour, greens and pickled fruit (less in proportion) with meat and dairy products. The food that they consume is less saturated and little in sugar.
Source: Pexels
Steamed Rice - A staple food with nutrients is a healthy option which is a must to have. It is served with other dishes, pickled veggies and seasoned fish.
Soybean - Classically known as the meat of the field in japan. It is high in nutritional and protein value and is almost included in either of the meals. It is mostly consumed in the form of tofu and miso soup (fermented).
Fish (seafood): High in omega-3 fatty acids, helps you to keep your cholesterol level balanced and lowers the risk of heart ailments such as cardiovascular disease.
Greens - Green leaves are not only consumed in a form of salads but also as a main course and starters. Wasabi is a dish consumed mostly in japan. Sprouts and seasoned salads too. Rich in antioxidants and fibre content helps you to maintain a proper diet and health.
Source: Pexels
Exercise Plays a Major Role
The other contributing factor to longevity is their active lifestyles. Japanese follow strict lifestyles to maintain their health. People actively take part in morning and evening walk sessions. The survey taken by the health centre clearly shows that people who are involved in minimal exercise have a lower risk of other ailments and are healthy.
Youth actively engage in sports activity along with the proper intake of food. The sole purpose of following a strict regime is to keep themselves healthy and fit. Even the kids are encouraged to walk or cycle to school to inculcate the habit.
One of the popular exercises among the Japanese is ‘radio taiso’. Every morning people gather to perform the exercise and it has been practised for 100 years. This tradition is still carried out in all parts of Japan.
Written By: Durrah Ismail Nasir
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