The Japanese are well known for longevity, but the secrets of their success are not that complicated. Many of their traditions support health preservation. Their cultural attitudes to food and general lifestyle promote high energy levels and keep off excess pounds. Here are the 7 key habits that keep the Japanese going, as pointed out in Naomi Moriyama’s aptly titled book “Japanese Women Don’t Get Old or Fat”.
1. Different diet choices
A traditional home cooked Japanese meal includes fish, steamed rice or noodles low in fat made from ingredients like buckwheat or mung beans, and simmered vegetables. The meal can also be accompanied by a bowl of miso soup. Afterwards, a cup of green tea is enjoyed and the meal is concluded with fresh fruit.
The fish-rich meal promotes the eating of healthy omega 3 fatty acids, while eating sea weed and cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cabbage, sprouts, kale, or bok choy gives one a feeling of fullness and allows for consumption of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. Green tea is well known for protecting the heart and fighting off chronic illnesses. Ending a meal with fruit also stops one from indulging in trans fatty foods like cake or tarts.
