Why the Japanese Live Longer than Most

Did you know that the Japanese have the longest lifespan in the world? The average lifespan of the Japanese men is 78, While for the women, it's 85!


Some of the reasons for their longevity are:


1. Eating fish instead of red meat.
     The Japanese like raw fish, as in sashimi, but they also have different ways of cooking fish. Fish is a staple in their diet.


2. Eating lots of soy products.
     The Japanese diet centers around tofu and soy products. These are very rich in protein and provides good cholesterol.


3. Drinking lots of tea.
     The Japanese drinks lots of green tea. The tea 'washes' off unhealthy substances in the body an helps break up oils consumed in fried foods.


4. Eating small portions.
     The Japanese do not binge. Their food and rice servings are relatively small.




Source:
Sci-tech, a Magazine on Science and Technology
Junior III, Volume XXI No. 6
SY 2007 - 2008