Scientists have revealed the secret of the longevity of Okinawans

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Inhabitants of Okinawa, the southernmost prefecture of Japan, are known for their long life span and low risk of age-related diseases. Their longevity is believed to be largely due to the local diet.

According to the article, the Okinawan diet is low in calories but nutritious. It is especially rich in phytonutrients in the form of antioxidants and flavonoids, scientists noted. Antioxidants have powerful anti-inflammatory effects and can reduce the risk of many diseases, including heart disease and some cancers.

In fact, studies show that all diets associated with reduced risk of chronic disease are similar to the traditional Okinawan diet. : a large amount of vegetables and fruits and reduced consumption of meat, saturated fat, sugar, salt and fatty dairy products.

“Reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases, some types of cancer, as well as reducing oxidative stress, faster after all, the low level of saturated fat, high amount of antioxidants and low glycemic load of the products contribute to such diets,” the study says.

Scientists concluded that the low-calorie aspect of the Okinawan diet may play a key role in longevity . The study examined archival health data of Okinawans (over 65) spanning six decades for calorie restriction.

The results found that fewer calories correlated with less weight gain with age, a low body mass index (BMI) throughout life, as well as a low risk of mortality from age-related diseases.