In Japan, life lessons in healthy eating
Summary
Obesity rates in Japan are much lower than in the United States, partly because Japanese people move more during everyday activities and eat simpler, healthier foods. Some Japanese companies, like Tanita Corporation, encourage employees to track their weight and daily steps to stay healthy, and schools provide nutritious meals to teach children good eating habits.Key Facts
- About 40% of adults in the U.S. are obese, while Japan’s obesity rate is about 4%, or one-tenth of the U.S. rate.
- Many Japanese walk a lot daily; in Tokyo, people average at least 10,000 steps per day because fewer own cars.
- Tanita Corporation requires employees to weigh themselves regularly and track their steps; missing weigh-ins can result in being locked out of the building.
- Employees at Tanita report losing weight by eating better and walking every day.
- The traditional Japanese diet includes rice, miso soup, and pickled vegetables, which support gut health due to fermentation.
- The Japanese practice "hara hachi bu," eating until they feel about 80% full to avoid overeating.
- Japanese schools serve free nutritious lunches sourced locally, with a focus on vegetables, and employ full-time nutritionists.
- The school lunch program began after World War II under U.S. occupation and continues today to ensure no child goes hungry.
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