Why Are Japanese People Typically Thin?

In Japanese society, there is a notable prevalence of slim figures among the population. It is important to acknowledge that cultural and individual dietary preferences vary across countries, and the definition of a healthy lifestyle may differ as well.

Genetics

One hypothesis often attributed to the Japanese population's slender physique is genetics. However, studies have shown that Japanese individuals possess numerous obesity-related genes.

For instance, the β3AR gene, which makes fat burning difficult, is present in 34% of Japanese people compared to only 8% in Westerners.

Another example is the PPARγ gene, which slows metabolism and is found in 92% of Japanese individuals but only 60% of Westerners. Nevertheless, the individual effects of these genes are said to be insignificant in predicting obesity.

Exercise

Contrary to the assumption that Japanese people are naturally thin due to exercise habits, research indicates that they do not engage in physical activities as fervently as Westerners.

Surveys have revealed that over 60% of Japanese people hold a negative attitude towards exercise.

This suggests that exercise alone may not be the primary factor contributing to their lower obesity rates.

Eating Habits

Japanese eating habits play a significant role in maintaining a slim figure. The following five dietary practices are commonly observed:

Low-fat and low-salt diet: Traditional Japanese meals consist of rice, miso soup, fish, beans, and seasonal vegetables. These dishes are typically low in fat and incorporate the umami flavor derived from ingredients like dashi, reducing the need for excessive salt consumption.

Consumption of fermented foods: Japanese cuisine incorporates various fermented foods such as pickles, miso, soy sauce, sake, and natto. These foods promote gut health by introducing beneficial bacteria (lactic acid bacteria, probiotics, koji, etc.) into the body, enhancing digestion and metabolism.

Integration of KOSO into the daily diet: KOSO, an enzyme-rich drink, has gained popularity among Japanese people. It contains probiotics, prebiotics, and postbiotics that aid in digestion, metabolism, and overall health. R's KOSO, a brand specializing in probiotic drinks, offers a range of options for those interested in incorporating KOSO into their routine.

Emphasis on small portion sizes: Japanese meals often feature various dishes in smaller portions, encouraging slower and more mindful eating. Chopsticks are commonly used, limiting the amount of food consumed per bite. Chewing food thoroughly and eating slowly have been linked to lower body fat percentages.

Walking as a daily habit: Compared to other countries, Japanese people tend to walk more as part of their daily routine. Whether commuting to work or engaging in daily activities, walking is the preferred mode of transportation in Japan's urban areas. The prevalence of safe streets and low crime rates contributes to this culture of walking.

Societal Pressure

Societal expectations, especially those related to body image, can place significant pressure on Japanese individuals.

Perfectionism is deeply ingrained in Japanese culture, driving many to strive for a "perfect" or "perfectly healthy" body.

This pressure is particularly evident among women, with advertisements, social media, and shopping promoting certain beauty standards. Additionally, work-life culture in Japan often includes annual health checks, where height, weight, and sometimes abdominal circumference are measured to assess overall health.

Conclusion

While genetics and exercise habits alone may not fully explain why Japanese people are typically thin, a combination of factors contributes to their lower obesity rates. Japanese eating habits, characterized by a low-fat and low-salt diet, consumption of fermented foods, integration of KOSO into the daily diet, emphasis on small portion sizes, and the cultural norm of walking as a daily habit all play a significant role.

These dietary practices promote a balanced and nutrient-rich intake, while the cultural emphasis on walking contributes to regular physical activity.

Furthermore, societal pressure and cultural norms regarding body image can also influence the lower obesity rates in Japan. The societal expectation of being slim and the pursuit of perfectionism drive individuals to maintain a healthy body weight.

This pressure may create a motivation for people to adopt healthier eating habits and engage in physical activities to meet societal standards.

It is important to note that while these factors contribute to the lower obesity rates in Japan, individual variations and exceptions exist. Not all Japanese people have the same body type, and there is diversity within the population. Additionally, modernization and changes in lifestyle habits may impact obesity rates over time.

Overall, the combination of genetics, dietary practices, cultural norms, and societal pressure contributes to the relatively low obesity rate in Japan.