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What is it that makes Japanese women and men live longer and healthier than the average human?

Yes, genes do play a major role in determining our health but seeing the recent surge of a number of diseases such as obesity, cholesterol, coronary diseases, etc in the Western part of the world, it can sure be said that eating habits highly influence our health – both negatively and positively.

If you are in search of healthy food options, Japanese food items should be the first of your finds. These items have enabled the Japanese people to live healthfully until the very end of their long lives. The first reason that makes their food healthy is the ingredient selection. White meat and vegetables make up the major chunk of their dishes. Secondly, the dishes are excellent in presentation. A person slows down when eating decorated food. This slow pace convinces the brain that more food is being taken in, speeding up its metabolism. Thirdly, Japanese dishes usually are served in small serving sizes which mean fewer calories.

People around the world enjoy Japanese dishes and desserts. Following are a five Japanese dishes that are both delicious and healthy at the same time.

1. Kinpira (Burdock and Carrot)

Kinpira is one of the dishes that are made in every Japanese home. It primarily consists of burdock and carrots, two vegetables with innumerable health benefits. The two veggies are sautéed with red peppers, roasted sesame seeds and a couple sauces of choice. It is enjoyed mostly in winters. Carrot, being a root vegetable, contains several minerals while burdock is high in fibre.

2. Simmered Tofu in Thick Soup

Tofu is now wide known a substitute for meat for vegans. But it can be enjoyed by anyone who is health conscious. It is made by coagulating soy milk and then pressing its curds into blocks. One popular Tofu recipe is Simmered Tofu in Thick Soup.

The dish is made by simmering tofu in dashi soup with edamame and bit of carrot and onions. Soy sauce, mirin and ginger are added for flavor. It can be served either hot or cold.

3. Salt-Grilled Salmon

This dish contains as low as 90kcal while serving four at a time. It is made up of just two ingredients – salmon and salt. Sprinkle the fish with salt and grill it on each side for three to four minutes. Salmon is high in protein, calcium and minerals and as low in calories as meat can possible have.

4. Seafood Curry and Rice

If you are looking for a dish a little more filling, this curry is for you. Again, seafood is high in protein and low in carbs. It serves around four with approximately 500 calories. The main ingredients are shrimps, scallops and onions along with garlic cloves and curry blocks. Salt, pepper, oil and white wine are added for taste. The curry is served with rice.

5. Tuna Sashimi

Tuna is another sea item that is used in various Japanese dishes because of its taste as well as nutritious properties. The dish primarily contains sliced tuna sprinkled over with avocados, which is high in minerals and fiber and excellent for health. Extra virgin olive oil, lime and onions add further to the health benefits to this dish.

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Andrew has been a Japanese food fan for the last 5 years. After travelling to Japan for years, Andrew is now settled in Australia, where he helps restaurants with sushi and noodle machines.