Okinawa, nestled among picturesque landscapes with azure blue seas, is famed for the notable longevity of its inhabitants. Decades of research by longevity expert Dan Buettner delve into the secrets behind the islanders’ ability to routinely surpass the average lifespan.
It was during a 2005 conversation with Kamada Nakazato, a centenarian of 102-years-old, that she disclosed her secret to a long and flourishing life. She shared: “Eat your vegetables, have a positive outlook, be kind to people, and smile.”
Kamada’s advice isn’t unique amongst Okinawans, many of whom follow a predominantly plant-based diet. Dan elaborates in his book ‘The Blue Zones Secrets for Living Longer’, where he notes: “Older Okinawans have eaten a plant-based diet most of their lives. Their meals of stir fried vegetables, sweet potatoes, and tofu are high in nutrients and low in calories. Goya, or bitter melon, with its antioxidants and compounds that lower blood sugar, is of particular interest.”
As Dan discloses, Beni Imo, a type of sweet potato indigenous to Okinawa, stands out as a dietary staple amongst the island’s elders. Touted as “one of the healthiest foods on the planet”, Dan argues that it brims with nutritional value, offering vitamin C, fibre, carotenoids, flavonoids, and slow-releasing carbohydrates.
Reflecting on her path to a long life, Kamada revealed that being selfless played a significant role in her longevity. She reminisced: “I used to be very beautiful.
“I had hair that came down to my waist. It took me a long time to realize that beauty is within. It comes from not worrying so much about your own problems. Sometimes you can best take care of yourself by taking care of others.”
Beyond her four essential tips for an extended lifespan, Dan Buettner observed an interesting trait in many Okinawan homes during his visits: a notable absence of furniture.
He suggests this could contribute to longevity, noting: “This absence of furniture hazards accounts for fewer injuries and death among the elderly on the island, which is also the result of their high intake of sun-induced vitamin D, relatively low intake of medications, good balance, and high lower body strength. In contrast, falls are the leading cause of death among older Americans.”
