10 Reasons Why The Japanese Are The Healthiest In The World

Why Are The Japanese The Healthiest People In The World; Japanese Diet & Food, The Lifestyle & Culture, & What We Experienced Being In Tokyo, Kyoto, & Nagoya

Matcha comes from Japan, a place known for long healthy lives, lots of walking, and a diet that consists of high quality produce & fish. We spent three weeks traveling across Japan to discover what makes the Japanese the healthiest people in the world. If you are traveling to Japan and are able to travel outside of the major cities you'll be able to experience and see a side of Japan that isn't always visible in the major cities.

What we observed on our trip to Japan:

Food & Diet
1. "Hara hachi bun" - The Japanese believe the perfect level of fullness during a meal is "80% full" this way you never over eat or over indulge
2. Diet consists of fresh and unprocessed foods, high in fiber, vitamins, minerals, anti-oxidants with a focus on whole foods, and low in saturated fats
3. Fermented foods like miso, nato (one of our favorites) which benefit your gut health, something that we are all thinking about today
4. The Japanese also consume less red meat and dairy, which some relate to the more positive health outcomes of the people in the country
5. A more mindful eating experience, served in small portions, and flexible restraint, enjoy life but try not to over-indulge

Lifestyle
1. In Japan physical activity is deeply ingrained in the culture; biking and walking as the primary means of transportation
2. Emphasis on physical activity extends to the older communities, allowing the aging population to stay active well into there retirement
3. Meditation and mindfulness exercises are commonly used to reduce stress; these practices allow individuals to focus on the present moment
4. Japanese tea culture is a cultural practice that emphasizes mindfulness and discipline; helping people cultivate a sense of inner peace

The Blue Zones
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blue_zone