According to the World Bank, the average life expectancy in Japan is 82.6 years, almost 14 years longer than the world average of 68.9 years, and almost five years longer than the United States figure. This long life expectancy comes despite the fact that nearly half of adult Japanese males smoke; while there is no single explanation, many credit the Japanese diet.
Soybeans
According to the National Soybean Research Laboratory at the University of Illinois, soybeans contain all three of the macro-nutrients required for complete nutrition: They pack protein, carbohydrates, and fat, and are high in iron, calcium, and folic acid. Soybeans are commonly eaten hot, after having been steamed, for snacks, and are sold on the street in many parts of Japan, from carts and kiosks. Cold soybeans also make a healthy snack, and, though it is less common, can be eaten raw as well.
Dried Seaweed
Seaweed has been consumed in many cultures for centuries; the Japanese eat more seaweed, particularly in dried form, than any other country in the world. Often called nori or laver, 10 grams of raw or plain dried seaweed has only four calories, and no saturated fat, cholesterol, or trans fats. Seaweed is also very high in vitamin A, calcium, vitamin C, and iron. Dried or dry-roasted seaweeds are free of added oil and salt, and thus healthier than those that have been roasted, which are much higher in calories.
Dried Cod
Dried cod is a very healthy snack, and is commonly sold in Japanese markets worldwide. Dried cod is high in omega-3 fatty acids, niacin, vitamin B6, magnesium, potassium, and protein --- all while being fairly low in calories and saturated fat. Dried, salted cod, however, is much less healthy, as a single serving may contain a whole day's worth of sodium for someone on an average (2,000 calorie per day) diet.
Wasabi-Coated Green Peas
Wasabi-coated green peas are a Japanese snack available worldwide. They are extremely low in calories and saturated fat, and contain high amounts of protein, fiber and iron. While wasabi-coated green peas are relatively healthy, stick to brands that are not loaded with MSG, added sodium, and hydrogenated oils. Heavy processing leaves such peas with little more nutritional value than potato chips or other salty snack foods.
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