Japan is known to be a culture that values quality in everything that they do. This is true not only in their products, but also in their way of life.
In a Japanese dish, if one pays close attention to the food groups involved in one meal and the manner of its preparation, they follow the concept behind the nutritionist’s food pyramid guide to healthy eating. The Food Pyramid is the visual illustration of a balanced diet. The base of the pyramid is for water, followed by carbohydrates, then vegetables and fruits, on upper level are protein-rich food such as dairy and meat products, and at the top are oils and fats. The triangle shape of a pyramid represents the quantity of servings per food group. The ones at the base mean more serving requirements per day, while the ones at the upper level of the triangle mean portions have to be controlled. In a Japanese sushi, rice is wrapped around smaller shares of meat, vegetables and fruits, consistent to the food pyramid.
Aside from observing proper mix and portion sizing of food groups in their dishes, the serving sizes are also done in bite size portions. The reason behind it is more than making it easier for the Japanese to eat using chopsticks. What the serving encourages is to eat the meal one at the time. Big bites make it difficult for one to chew the food taken in properly, which leads to swallowing large pieces even before they are broken down in to small pieces for easy digestion. Small bites allow the food to roll in ones mouth, grinded by the teeth and more importantly, digested by the enzymes in ones saliva. As early as chewing, digestion starts in the mouth, with food-processing taking place. The constricted size of sushi and sashimi, as well as the use of chopsticks makes sure that this step is not missed.
Aside from observing a balanced diet by following the Food Pyramid guide and proper eating, the Japanese are also conscious about their physical condition. Though known for their automotives and other technological advancements to cut down movement from people, their government is still very keen on ensuring they get their adequate physical activity requirement for the day. In buildings for example, the government does not allow elevators to be installed in constructions that are below five stories. Climbing the stairs over using the lift is encouraged.
Even in their family structure, health is embedded. The role of the wife and mom is to not only to manage the money to keep the household running smoothly. A Japanese wife is expected to also monitor the diet of her family. In their meal preparations, the wife takes note of calories requirement per individual, basing her meal planning on it.
The Japanese have health embedded in their lifestyle, from their dishes to governing laws to family structure. It’s no wonder their race has the longest life expectancy. Hardly can one find an obese Japanese as well, most are fit and in tiptop shape.
Thank you for posting this! It was really helpful to me!
Comment by Ashley — October 8, 2009 @ 7:10 am