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Japan
Longevity declines as famed healthy Okinawa islanders adopt western lifestyles

Mis en ligne le 07/06/2006

Famed for their longevity, the elderly Okinawans might be the last to follow traditional diets and lifestyles. Their traditional fare, rich in seafood and local vegetables protects them for heart and age-related diseases. Unfortunately younger generations are adopting western lifestyles which greatly decrease their life expectancy. Okinawan male life expectancy dropped from 1st to 26th place during the last 2000 census. Health conditions are deteriorating due to fast foods and stressful lifestyles.

Western fare and fast foods are shortening the life expectancy of vigorous Okinawans. These islanders are famed for their astounding longevity and healthy diets. According to Dr. Makoto Suzuki, Okinawan male life expectancy used to be number one in Japan. In the last 2000 census it had fallen to 26th place. Dr. Makoto expects it to decline even further in the future. Nevertheless statistics show a 15% rise of Japan centenarians. In 2004, 25,000 Japanese men and women celebrated their 100th birthday. 84% of citizens aged 100+ are women.
But the gap is growing between the lifestyles of older and younger Okinawans. The diet and lifestyle of seniors is famed for encouraging high levels of longevity. Locals ate a fairly traditional fare of fish, local vegetables and soy products. High amounts of seafood, rich in omega-3 fatty acids and vegetables high in anti-oxidants protect the body from heart disease and clogged arteries.
The islanders also prefer to eat only until they are 80% full. The habit of calorie restriction protects them from producing free radicals and developing age-related disorders. The natural beauty and the slow paced life on Okinawa and especially on the neighbouring Amami islands protect its inhabitants from pollution, toxins and the stress associated with urban life. Unfortunately younger islanders are adopting western lifestyles and diets. The impact on their health has yet to be fully measured.

(The Japan Times, 05/02/06 : "A long life on the island")

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