Okinawa: The Land of Longevity

Exploring the world’s blue zones (or, “longevity hot spots”) provides clues as to why certain people live longer than others. Currently, there are five locations that hold world records.

Okinawa, a small island off the coast of mainland Japan, is a model of good health.

The average life expectancy is 81.2 (the longest in the world), and they have the highest global rate of centenarians, about 35 for every 100,000 people.

A visit to Okinawa shows the elderly are in good shape. Compared to Americans, they have 80 percent fewer heart attacks and half the rate of colon cancer.

So what is it about Okinawa that promotes longevity? Below we’ll explore potential causes.

The Okinawans Have Good Genes

You could say the Okinawans are blessed with good genes. Overall their genetic makeup decreases their risk for inflammatory diseases, a major cause of aging.

However, scientists don’t think it’s that simple. The longest study on Okinawans estimates that at least two-thirds of their longevity is due to lifestyle factors.

Okinawans who have moved to Brazil, for example, live on average 17 years less.

The Okinawans Practice Calorie Restriction

The Okinawans eat about 1,200 calories daily. Inadvertently, they practice calorie restriction, the best longevity method to date.

The local diet is mostly plant-based and consists of seaweed, fish (although in small quantities), fermented soy, purple sweet potatoes, and goya (bitter melon).  The older inhabitants eat about 7 servings of vegetables and fruits a day.

Pork is eaten on special occasions and dairy is rarely consumed. Turmeric is also a part of the diet. It’s mostly consumed in the form of tea. Many studies attest to the health benefits of this beneficial herb.

The Okinawans Live Low Stress, Traditional Lives

The Okinawans have conserved old traditions and live a slow-paced lifestyle. They’ve kept traditional jobs, such as farming and fishing.

They meditate and practice martial arts, tai chi, and dance. Elderly people tend to work and remain active into their 80’s and 90’s.

The Okinawans Have Healthy Habits

The Okinawans drink moderately, rarely smoke, exercise, and have strong social and spiritual ties. Gardening, bicycling, and walking are common island activities.

The Bottom Line

Being the longest living people in the world, the Okinawans can certainly teach us a thing or two about longevity. Why not adopt some of their lifestyle habits?

Who knows, perhaps you’ll live a little longer if you do!