Things Indians can learn from Japanese to increase their average life expectancy

Japanese have a higher average life expectancy than Indians because of their eating and other habits (Picture Credit: Pexels)

It's always fascinating to study cultural and lifestyle habits of different countries. To draw inspiration to live well and a healthy life, most of us look at Japan and its people. The proof of their healthy habits lies in the fact that the average life expectancy of Japanese is about 84.8 years. Can you guess what's the average life expectancy of Indians? Well, it is about 70.4 years!

The healthcare system in India is becoming robust by the year. So, it's definitely not because of poor services that Indians are lagging behind. So, what is it? Let's find out.

Water-based cooking
In India, we look fried food, don't we? Whether it is our potato wedges or everyone's favourite samosa, we love food items that are fried in oil. However, in Japan, people there prefer water-based cooking which involves steaming, simmering and poaching. The result? Retention of important nutrients like vitamins B and C.

Since oil used for frying food is used less or not at all, the food becomes more easy to digest, light and low in calories. This explains why it is good for gut and heart health.

Balanced diet rich in nutrients
More and more Indians are moving away from fresh, home-cooked meals to packaged and processed food. However, in Japan, people are conscious about their health choices and have continued to include fresh vegetables, fermented food, fish, among other things. The food they eat doesn't include heavy oil and is rich in nutrients too.

Food rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids
Japanese also like to eat food items in their diet that are rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids. Wondering how does it help? Well, it helps reduce inflammation and at the same time protect heart health too. Foods like miso and pickled vegetables help boost healthy gut microbiome that helps aid digestion and overall well-being.

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Portion control
Most Japanese abide by the rule of eating till 80% of their stomach is full. This principle is called hara hachi bu. How does it help? Well, even Ayurveda also says the same thing. One must not eat to fill their stomachs to the tee. In fact, one must eat till 70% of their capacity is full and leave the rest of space for water and air. Japanese benefit from doing so as it encourages mindful eating in them and helps them achieve their weight management goals.

Japanese walk and cycle a lot
Physical exercise is a way of life for most Japanese people. They walk a lot and cycle too. This habit of theirs help maintain their muscle, joints, bone and heart health, thereby increasing their longevity. On the other hand, the culture in India doesn't really support people walking on streets. In fact, most Indians are leading sedentary lives, caught up in their desk jobs.

Light and early dinner
Japanese like to have a light dinner and they like to have it early. Early dinner helps with proper digestion and before one hits the bed, the food gets digested. This helps one sleep better and maintain one's weight too. However, in India, most people have their dinners at a late hour, slowing their digestion process. This also explains why their sleep cycle is not very good.

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FAQs on Japanese average life expectancy:

1. What is the average life expectancy in Japan? As of recent data, Japan’s average life expectancy is around 84–85 years, one of the highest in the world.

3. Do Japanese women live longer than men?
Yes, Japanese women typically outlive men by about 5–6 years on average.

4. How has life expectancy in Japan changed over time?
It has steadily increased due to advances in medicine, hygiene, and living standards.

5. What can other countries learn from Japan’s longevity?
Emphasizing healthy eating, regular activity, and community connection can promote longer, healthier lives.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.