Japanese people are known for their healthy-looking skin, fast metabolism and long-life expectancy. This healthy combination traced back to their diet, as you have heard, we are what we eat. You eat healthy, then, you achieved that healthy lifestyle.

For the longest time, Japanese food is ranked as one of the healthiest cuisines in the world, hardly any oil, preservatives and low in fat content, Japanese food often contains healthy carbs, vegetables and high source of protein such as raw fish.

For this reason, Japan is ranked as the no.1 long-living nation for the past 20 years. This title is impressive, because even their elderlies maintain a healthy lifestyle with amazing home cook meals. Today, we deliver you a list of 14 healthiest food you can find in Japan. Please remember to take care of your health!

 

 

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1. Konnyaku

 

 

Konnyaku contains zero calories, it has a rubbery texture and is somewhat tasteless. It is an ingredient that appear often in Japanese dishes. Konnyaku is great if you are seeking to lose weight and maintain your calories, as it is high in fibre called glucomannan, which aid in weight loss. This ingredient is used as the main carb source in meals like stir-fried, a whole block is usually not more than 20 calories which is why is it very filling.

 

 

 

2. Tofu

 

 

Japanese tofu can be easily purchased at local convenient stores, it is very low in calories and is often used to cook variety of meals, especially, in placement for meat. It increases basal metabolism and resolve constipation issue. Such tofu is packed with nutrients such as isoflavones, proteins and minerals. It can be seen in Japanese soup and stir-fried dishes.

 

 

 

3. Edamame

 

 

Edamame is processed into variety of food such as soy protein, tofu, soybean oil, soy sauce, miso, natto and tempura. It is a popular ingredient in Japanese meals and is often eaten as whole besides other dishes. Traditionally, they are prepared by steaming method with a light dust of salt, it holds high nutrients like protein, vitamin B1 and potassium.

 

 

 

4. Maguro Sashimi (Bluefin Tuna)

 

 

Maguro Sashimi contains plenty of nutrients to help restore your energy level as well as maintain your basal metabolic level. The food is high in protein and is often eaten raw with Japanese soy sauce. If you are concerned about calories, a slice of maguro sashimi contains about 30-40 calories, you will feel quite full after a few pieces!

 

 

 

5. Wakame

 

 

Wakame is a type of seaweed rich in fibre, not only it is beneficial for your health, it is also effective at improving skin complexion and restore the skin barrier. It improves intestinal environments and promotes blood flow and increases metabolism rate. The seaweed contains plenty of vitamins and minerals while keeping your calories low.

 

 

 

6. Harusame

 

 

Harusame are thin and semi-transparent noodles that are made from potato starch, it is rich in dietary fibre and have high calories which keeps you full for longer. It is light and have a great texture that can be utilised in dishes like soup and stir-fried.

 

 

 

7. Mozoku

 

 

Mozoku is a popular seaweed from Okinawa that is high in minerals, fucoidan and alginic acid. It has little calories and barely any fat, making it a great ingredient if you are concerned about your caloric intake. It has great effect on improving intestinal environment and blood circulation due to its high fibre content.

 

 

 

8. Kinako

 

 

Kinako is made by carefully roasting soybeans into powder. It is highly nutritious, packed with minerals and proteins. It can be mixed with yogurt and other ingredients before eating to reduce blood sugar levels and reduce constipation. In addition, it also has great effect on preventing the accumulation of fat and making fat less sticky in your digestive system.

 

 

 

9. Natto

 

 

Natto is a popular breakfast eaten with rice and omelette in Japan. It is known for its unique consistency and texture; however, you should not be deterred by its appearance, as natto is quite delicious when eaten with rice. Its flavour is commonly described as a distinctive nutty flavour, when combined with the slimy texture, it works surprisingly well. It is high in fibre which helps promote blood circulation and digestive problem.

 

 

 

10. Hijiki

 

 

Hijiki has a sweet, clean, mineral smell, it is full of iron, magnesium, potassium and calcium. Hijiki is designed to promote savory and sweet flavour, it must be rehydrated before being added into a meal, preparing hijiki seaweed does not take more than 15 minutes. Therefore, it is quite convenient as an essential household ingredient to cook Japanese dishes.

 

 

 

11. Hot Pot

 

 

Hot pot is one of the best meals for staying warm in wintertime. It is a traditional Chinese cooking method that has been adapted to cater towards different Asian cuisine. Japanese hotpot uses the method of simmering pot of soup stock, often shared by the family, it has all kinds of ingredient, including meat, fish, vegetables and noodles. It is a healthy method of cooking as hot pot is oil-free and doesn’t reduce the nutritionist value when it is being cooked.

 

 

 

12. Soba

 

 

Soba is known for having high source of magnesium, which is what the body require to function. Soba noodles are a great option if you’re counting fat grams as they are very low in fat content, especially, soba noodles that are made with buckwheat flour, it is extremely high in nutrient and contain healthy carbs. When eaten alone, they are virtually fat-free. To keep the fat count low, you can eat them in a light broth with a hint of fresh herbs. 

 

 

 

13. Oden

 

 

Oden is often enjoyed during winter in Japan, it can be found in the local convenient stores around town. It is a very simple stew made by simmering fish cakes, fried tofu and vegetables in a kelp-based stock for a few hours. It has become a feature of winter in Japan, as it is a type of hot pot cuisine. The individual components in a pot of oden are all very distinct, and the best part is to choose your favourite ingredients piece by piece.