Dreaming of reaching age 100? The keys to a long, joyful existence might be found in Japan, which holds the world's highest average life expectancy at 83.84 years and counts roughly 2 million citizens over 90.
Surprisingly, six of the top ten oldest individuals globally are Japanese, including Nabi Tajima from Kagoshima, who at 117 is the last surviving person born in the 1800s! What explains such remarkable longevity among the Japanese? Which practices do they follow that make a difference? In this segment, John heads to Tottori Prefecture near Mount Daisen, where his acquaintance Tomiko-san shares insights on achieving a long life—she is 106 and still active on her farm! Her secret? Tofu. She began making tofu in the 1950s after doctors advised residents to lower high blood pressure. She prepared homemade tofu for her family, and this diet, combined with positive routines like staying occupied and laboring diligently, has fortified both her mind and body. Even now, she walks and composes tanka poetry. I also consult my 97-year-old Japanese neighbor, Mr. Seiichi, about his secret, and hear from a Shinto priest regarding his views and personal journey with a very long and contented life in Japan.
It's tough to pinpoint exactly why Japan boasts the globe's highest average life expectancy, but these factors might contribute:
★ Green Tea ★ Lower fat consumption ★ Seafood ★ Fermented foods ★ Bathing traditions / Hot springs & Onsen ★ Smaller meal sizes ★ Education about personal accountability ★ National safety / minimal crime ★ Reverence for older adults (It's even a national holiday!) ★ Genetics
by ONLY in JAPAN
