With a balance of food types, low overall caloric content, and little reliance on processed items, Japanese food makes for a deliciously healthy diet. While you’re likely familiar with tasty dishes like sushi and tempura, you might not know what makes the Japanese diet so nutritious. Learn more about some of this cuisine’s staples as well as how they can lead to a longer, healthier life.

3 Healthy Tips From the Japanese Diet

1. Choose Fish Over Red Meat

Instead of looking to the fields, the Japanese turn to the sea for the majority of their protein intake. While other meat is high in saturated fat, fish is lean and a source of many healthy compounds such as omega-3 fatty acids, which can lower your blood pressure, reduce the risk of irregular heartbeats, and slow the buildup of plaque in the arteries. Another benefit of eating fish is the wide variety available. Salmon, mackerel, trout, sardines, herring, and tuna are all rich in omega-3 fatty acids and can be incorporated into various kinds of Japanese food including miso soup, teriyaki, and, of course, sushi.

2. Eat Rice

Rice is the foundation of Japanese food. The grain has been grown and harvested in the country for thousands of years and is used to make a variety of food items, including flour, vinegar, and alcohol. High in resistant starch, rice provides a filling and nutritious base for any meal and fuels the body with valuable nutrients that foster healthy bacteria in the digestive system. Beyond filling you up, the grain is also a rich source of folate, which reduces the risk of birth defects.

3. Make Time for Tea

In Japanese culture, tea is a versatile drink that is enjoyed from morning until night. The antioxidants in green and black tea have been tied to lower risks of cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Plus, both tea varieties have been linked to higher bone density, lower cholesterol, and anti-inflammatory effects.

If you’re ready to adopt the Japanese diet in a gourmet style, head to Waioli Grill & Cafe in Honolulu, HI. The restaurant serves a wide variety of Japanese favorites, including a create-your-own twist on the traditional plate lunch that offers a choice of one main dish and soup, plus two sides. Visit the website for a look at their menu of Japanese food, or call (808) 734-5298 to make a reservation.