Okinawa, the southern island of Japan, has long been renowned as the ‘World’s Longest-Living Region’. With the famous Okinawan diet and a healthy lifestyle, it boasts the highest centenarian ratio globally. The average life expectancy is an impressive 86 for women and 78 for men, sparking curiosity about the Japanese secret to longevity.
1. Seaweed – The Japanese Secret to Longevity
Contrary to common beliefs about expensive supplements, Okinawa’s high life expectancy is largely attributed to a longevity diet, gentle daily exercises, and, most notably, a green and healthy menu. Two staple superfoods in their diet are seaweed and bitter melon, which are familiar, accessible, and nutritionally dense.
Seaweed is one of the best foods for Japanese health due to its abundant vitamins A, C, and E and minerals like calcium, iron, and iodine. Many wonder: What are the benefits of seaweed? The answer is plenty—from boosting immunity to reducing inflammation, fighting oxidation, and enhancing cardiovascular health.
Notably, compounds like fucoxanthin and fucoidan in seaweed have proven effective in lowering blood pressure, slowing aging, and preventing cardiovascular diseases. This is why seaweed is considered one of the heart-healthy vegetables, fitting well into modern dietary trends. Okinawans often incorporate seaweed into their diets by making miso soup, salads, or pairing it with sashimi. With its mild flavor, low calories, and easy preservation, seaweed has become popular in Vietnam, ranging from 20,000 to 50,000 VND per pack.
Consuming seaweed is one of the Japanese secrets to longevity.
2. Bitter Melon – A Bitter Vegetable with Sweet Health Benefits
Bitter melon, the primary ingredient in Goya Chanpuru, a traditional Okinawan dish combined with eggs, tofu, and meat/tuna, may leave you wondering: Is bitter melon good for you? Despite its bitter taste, which may deter some, bitter melon is a scientifically recognized longevity food.
According to research from New York University, bitter melon reduces inflammation, detoxifies the body, improves circulation, and notably helps regulate blood sugar—an essential benefit in preventing and managing diabetes. It is also an ideal choice for longevity diets.
In Vietnam, bitter melon is readily available in local markets and supermarkets, priced reasonably between 15,000 and 30,000 VND per kilogram. Vietnamese cuisine also favors dishes like stuffed bitter melon, bitter melon soup, or stir-fried bitter melon with eggs.
These two simple ingredients, seaweed and bitter melon, epitomize the Japanese secret to longevity, reflecting the Okinawan philosophy of ‘eating for health’. You don’t need extravagant dishes; instead, a balanced and healthy Okinawan diet, coupled with positive lifestyle habits, can lead to a longer and healthier life.
If you seek foods to lower blood pressure, boost immunity, and promote heart health, include these affordable and nutritious vegetables in your daily meals without hesitation.
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