JapanExperts point out that seaweed, algae and bitter melon can activate genes related to longevity, which is the secret to long life of Okinawans.
At the end of February, the World Health Organization (WHO) predicted there would be about 35 million new cancer cases by 2050, a 77% increase from the estimated 20 million cases in 2022. This increases the burden of cancer. Global mail is increasing rapidly. Besides screening and preventive treatment, according to Sanjay Gupta, associate professor of neurosurgery at Emory University School of Medicine, daily diet is also important to prevent this disease.
During a visit to the “Blue Zone” of Okinawa, where the world’s largest number of people live over 100 years old, he identified methods to support the rejuvenation process and stimulate the “body’s longevity gene”.
“Hidden in our DNA is a gene called FOXO3. It can delay the aging process, but needs to be activated with the right foods,” he said.
Previous scientific reports also found that the Okinawan diet helps reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and inflammation.
According to Gupta, there are three foods that people eat regularly that can activate genes to prolong life, as follows:
Bitter melon
According to Dr. Gupta, bitter melon has been used by Okinawans for centuries as food as well as a natural remedy to treat type 2 diabetes. Bitter melon contains a phytonutrient called polypeptide-P, which has the ability to treat type 2 diabetes. ability to reduce blood sugar levels. Another compound is charantin, which increases glucose metabolism in the body.
Besides Japan, Ayurveda (traditional Hindu medicine) and traditional Chinese medicine have long used bitter melon for its detoxifying and blood-purifying effects. The bitter taste of melon has the effect of clearing heat and cooling the body, especially good for the liver, gallbladder, treating kidney stones and reducing water retention. The purifying properties of this fruit positively affect the skin, reducing acne, eczema and psoriasis
Seaweed
In Japan, seaweed is an important part of the diet. Seaweed contains a lot of fiber, omega-3 fats, vitamins A, C, E and B. In addition, seaweed has large amounts of minerals such as magnesium, potassium, zinc,…
More and more scientific research shows that the ingredients and compounds in seaweed have health benefits. Research on rats shows that adding seaweed to their diets improves blood cholesterol levels, even when they are on a high-fat and high-cholesterol diet.
Other analysis indicates that seaweed has weight loss and blood pressure lowering effects. High fiber content helps prevent colon cancer, type 2 diabetes, obesity and cardiovascular disease. Other compounds provide strong antioxidant support.
Algae
In addition to seaweed, other forms of algae are also an important part of the Okinawan diet, and can activate genes that prolong life. Green algae contain various bioactive components, such as phycocyanin, carotenoids, fiber and plant sterols, which help reduce total intestinal cholesterol and hepatic lipogenic gene expression.
Blue-green algae also reduce inflammation by inhibiting the activity of a specific gene, thereby reducing inflammatory cytokine production. This plant inhibits lipid peroxidation, prevents free radical formation and fights oxidative stress.
A study published in 2021 in the US National Library of Health showed that taking 1-8 grams of spirulina per day can help regulate systolic and diastolic blood pressure, especially for people with high blood pressure levels. .
Although more research is needed, some evidence suggests that consuming algae may protect against cancer. Animal studies show that algae can reduce tumor size in many different types of cancer.