In the minds of most people, exercise is considered an important factor for longevity. Those who maintain an exercise regimen benefit from good metabolism, muscle strength, and a lower risk of natural illnesses, often accompanied by a longer life. However, when looking at this broad natural law, there are always exceptions.
One of these special “exceptions” is Japan, where according to global life expectancy statistics released by the Japanese Ministry of Labor, it ranks first in the world with an average life expectancy of 87 for men and 91 for women. This is a surprising fact that many people are aware of. However, when combined with other studies, we can discover a peculiar phenomenon:
Japan, despite leading the world in life expectancy, is also one of the countries with the lowest levels of physical activity, according to information from the medical journal The Lancet. This raises the question of whether the belief that “exercise is the key to a longer life” is complete or not?
First, let us explore the reasons why the Japanese can achieve such an impressive life expectancy. While it is true that exercise plays a crucial role in maintaining health, it is not the only factor. Other aspects of daily life being efficiently implemented also contribute to extended life, and Japan is a living testament to this.
The reasons why the Japanese have a high life expectancy may be related to three main factors:
First Reason: Low-fat diet and focus on clean food
Those who have studied the eating habits of the Japanese often know that Japanese cuisine is generally low in fat, with reduced oil usage, and predominantly consists of products such as soybeans and seafood.
Based on this dietary regime, the prevalence of common fats in Japan is low, reducing the risk of heart disease, while strokes, one of the leading causes of death, diminish the risk of contracting high-risk illnesses and contribute to a higher life expectancy.
In addition, a low-fat and high-fish diet, with a high proportion of unsaturated fatty acids, also benefits maintaining clean blood vessels, reducing the risk of diseases such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and other issues, contributing to increased longevity.
Second Reason: No fat squeezing in the Japanese
It may be unknown to many people that since 2008, the Japanese government has implemented the “National Weight Loss Plan,” with its main content being the restriction of citizens’ weight, especially civil servants, with the goal of keeping waist circumference within the specified limits. Any violation will affect their work.
This policy aims to reduce the risk of diabetes nationwide. This has created a clear difference in weight in Japan, making the country almost free from obesity. Obesity is often a sign leading to metabolic health issues, and Japan’s strict weight standards can help improve overall health and longevity.
Third Reason: Strongly developed healthcare system in Japan
According to data from the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) of the government’s Health Expenditure Database, the proportion of healthcare costs to GDP in Japan ranks first among developed countries.
This indicates that Japan’s healthcare system is strongly developed, and the public’s awareness of disease prevention and treatment is strong. Diseases are often cared for from the early stages, helping to limit the development of late-stage symptoms, contributing to an increased average life expectancy among the Japanese.
In conclusion, the main factors that contribute to the longevity of the Japanese are closely related to their dietary habits and social policies of the government. Although exercise is not the sole factor influencing life expectancy, its importance in maintaining health and longevity cannot be denied.
How does exercise affect life expectancy?
On one hand, exercise has the ability to strengthen the immune system by stimulating metabolism and reducing the risk of contracting infections, cancer, and other serious illnesses, creating favorable conditions for a longer life.
On the other hand, exercise helps us maintain an acceptable weight range, preventing the negative effects of obesity on overall health. The correlation between maintaining a healthy weight and life expectancy has been demonstrated in many studies.
However, it should be noted that while exercise can positively contribute to increased life expectancy, this is only true when done correctly and in accordance with scientific principles. Incorrect exercise habits can also harm the body’s health and even pose risks to life expectancy.
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