Monday, January 26, 2009

The Secret to Staying Healthy

By Michael Byrd

Where can we find the fountain of youth? Maybe we can ask the experts since we are sure that they will surely know what we are asking and they can back it up with concrete data.

Okinawa is said to be the place where the healthiest people on earth live. Is there data to prove this? Yes there is. They have the world's largest number of centurions (100 years and older). That is actually three times than that of America. They also have a lower incidence of heart disease, compared to the U.S. When it comes to other health problems, Okinawans also have lower health risks. Cases of colon and ovarian cancer are 50% less, breast and prostate cancer are 80% less and hip fractures are 40% less.

What could be their secret to staying healthy and living longer? It is actually very simple and easy.

Secret #1 is to learn how to maintain a positive outlook on life. Okinawans worry less since they have the belief that if they just leave things as they are everything in life will just turn out well. They prefer to stay calm and live with little stress. When they are at work, they use a steady space and avoid putting too much pressure on themselves. It is believed that this lifestyle makes them healthy and live longer.

Secret #2 is cultivating a strong relationship with people. A favorite activity of Okinawans is going out with their family and friends, to chat, laugh or just offer support. Studies have shown that people are healthier when they live an active social life. They actually have lower risk of getting sick.

Secret #3 is a healthy diet. The traditional diet of Okinawans is both simple and wholesome. Their diet is usually composed of fish that is rich in protein and omega-3 oils, also plant foods that are high in vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients. One thing that is also noticeable in their diet is that they eat a diet with fewer calories, around 500-1000 calories less per day than what an average American or people from other countries take in. This low calorie and healthy diet helps in reducing the risk of health problems that makes a person overweight and makes them live longer lives.

Secret # 4 is exercise. Most of the Okinawans exercise. They either do this by walking or working in their gardens at home or by doing tai chi, a traditional martial art.

Secret # 5 is avoid bad habits. You can only find a few old Okinawans who smoke and drink alcohol.

It is however sad to note that there is no healthy and longer future for the next generation of Okinawans. The younger generations have been influenced badly by eating a more commercial diet and even engaging in cigarette smoking and alcohol drinking. It has also been noted that the younger generation have become more obese.

It would really make sense if the younger generation followed the example that the elder generation has shown. A positive attitude, strong interpersonal relationships, regular exercises, eating a wholesome and light diet, working with less pressure and stress, and free from the bad habits of smoking and alcoholic drinking. Simply put, this is the secret of the Okinawans on living a healthy, happy and longer life.

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