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Mortality statistics show that Japan has the highest average life expectancy. This was confirmed in a comparison between G7 countries, with Japan still having the lowest life expectancy in the 1960s. A country’s mortality rate depends on many factors. Above all, this includes the outbreak rate of fatal diseases.
With the decline in mortality from cerebrovascular disease and ever-decreasing rates of ischemic heart disease and cancer, the life expectancy of the Japanese population increased. But how did this development come about? In this article we explore the background to this question European Journal of Clinical Nutrition were illuminated.
Japan is convincing when it comes to risk factors
Men and women in the G7 countries were examined for cigarette consumption, high blood pressure, obesity and average body mass index. The results show that Japanese men and women are significantly less likely to be obese and have lower body mass indexes compared to other G7 countries.
When it comes to high blood pressure, both genders are in the middle, while cigarette consumption shows large differences both between genders and between countries. Japanese men have the highest cigarette consumption and Japanese women have the lowest cigarette consumption in comparison. This could also be the reason why the average life expectancy in Japan is 81 years for men and 87 years for women.
Japanese diet in international comparison
Improving nutritional status is a relevant factor for Japan’s high life expectancy. It was recognized that mortality from infectious diseases was significantly reduced when individuals maintained a good diet. A faster recovery should also be possible. Compared to other countries, the diet in Japan is characterized by a lower consumption of meat, milk and milk products, sugar, but also fruit and potatoes. Low consumption of red meat and sugar, as well as a diet rich in fish, plant foods like rice and soybeans, and unsweetened green tea, have been shown to contribute to lower mortality rates. These eating habits are also said to be able to prevent obesity.
Overview of the most important foods
Meat, fish & milk
Meat and dairy products contain saturated fat, which has been linked to an increased risk of ischemic heart disease. Interestingly, consumption of saturated fatty acids leads to a lower risk of cerebrovascular disease. In comparison, fish and seafood contain polyunsaturated fatty acids called omega-3 fatty acids, which reduce the risk of ischemic heart disease. The relatively low mortality from ischemic heart disease but high mortality from cerebrovascular disease in Japan may be explained by their consumption of animal products.
soybeans
The relatively high soy consumption could also be responsible for the low mortality. Soybeans contain isoflavones, which have anti-cancer and heart-protective properties. Isoflavone consumption at the levels consumed in Asia is believed to be responsible for a lower risk of breast and prostate cancer and cardiovascular disease. Plant-based protein, such as soy, may also be linked to increased longevity. Swapping 3% of energy from plant protein for red meat protein could help reduce the risk of all-cause and cardiovascular mortalities.
Sugar & Green Tea
Obesity can be reduced by low intake of sugar and potatoes, but also high consumption of unsweetened green tea, which reduces obesity-related diseases. There is evidence that high consumption of green tea could reduce all-cause and cardiovascular mortality.
Dietary diversity
Dietary diversity is also a significant factor in health and longevity. Consuming different foods is therefore seen as beneficial. A study has shown that dietary diversity and adherence to the Japanese nutritional guide “Spinning Top” influence overall mortality.
Ake are great steps toward improving health outcomes across the globe.
World-today-news.com: Today, we have with us Dr. Kenta Takagi, a renowned nutritionist and health expert from Japan, and Dr. Alexis Martinez, a leading cardiologist from the United States. Thank you both for joining us today. Our topic of conversation is about the secrets behind Japan’s high average life expectancy and what we can learn from their diet and lifestyle habits. Let’s start with you, Dr. Takagi, could you please share some insights into how Japan managed to achieve the lowest mortality rate among the G7 countries and what factors contribute to this remarkable statistic?
Dr. Kenta Takagi: Thank you for inviting me, world-today-news.com. Japan’s achievement in lowering mortality rates can be attributed to various factors, including our healthy diet and lifestyle habits. Our diet, rich in fish, plant-based foods, and unsweetened green tea, has been shown to reduce ischemic heart disease and cerebrovascular disease mortality. These illnesses are responsible for the majority of deaths globally. Additionally, lower consumption of red meat, milk, and sugar also contributes to our reduced mortality rates. Exercise and social connectedness are also integral aspects of Japanese culture that aid in promoting overall well-being.
world-today-news.com: That’s fascinating. Dr. Martinez, as a cardiologist from the US, what are your thoughts on Japan’s dietary habits and its impact on mortality rates? Do you believe these dietary practices can be adapted in other countries to improve health outcomes?
Dr. Alexis Martinez: Absolutely! The Japanese diet is indeed an excellent model for promoting heart health and longevity. It focuses on whole, nutrient-dense foods like fish, vegetables, and fruits, which are high in antioxidants and polyunsaturated fats that protect against cardiovascular disease. Although we may not all be able to adopt a completely Japanese diet, incorporating some of these healthy habits into our daily lives can make a significant difference. Reducing red meat consumption, increasing intake of fish and plant-based protein, and moderating sugar int
