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Japan boasts one of the highest life expectancies globally, thanks to their scientific dietary habits. Let's unravel the secrets behind the longevity of the Japanese people.
Meet Professor Mori Masaaki, hailing from the Hokkaido region of Japan and currently residing in Saigon. I'm attending his language class to prepare for an extended business trip overseas. Learning from Professor Masaaki goes beyond language; it's a journey into Japanese cuisine, culture, and traditions.
After our recent class, Professor treated us to a Japanese feast at Sushi Dining AOI. He frequents the place as he's not entirely accustomed to Vietnamese dishes. The chefs at Sushi Dining AOI, being Japanese themselves, prepare dishes that align with his taste preferences.
Exploring Japanese cuisine is a delightful journey, with sushi, sashimi, and savory pancakes like okonomiyaki stealing the spotlight. Every dish during our meal was a treat, except for one that caught Professor Masaaki's fancy and left me intrigued and slightly uneasy: the tuna rice bowl with natto.
The first whiff of natto's slimy texture and distinct aroma almost made me want to turn away immediately. However, as Professor Masaaki explained, this dish holds one of the secrets to the robust longevity of the Japanese people. Behind the unique taste of natto lies a fascinating story.
Since the late Edo period (1603 – 1867), natto has been a staple in Japanese cuisine. Locals have utilized natto as a traditional remedy, effective in preventing flu, food poisoning, eliminating harmful bacteria, ensuring healthy pregnancies, and strengthening bones.
Numerous research studies on natto reveal its high content of vitamin K2, contributing to stronger bones for postmenopausal women and preventing bone fragility. Additionally, vitamin K2 aids in the production of a protein called Osteocalcin, acting as a binding agent with calcium in bones, further enhancing bone strength.
Traditionally, the Japanese have included natto in their breakfast, blending it with raw eggs and soy sauce. The natural sweetness of natto comes from the glutamic acid present in the sticky texture formed during the fermentation of soybeans. The more elastic the stickiness, the more delightful the natto.
Evidence suggests that when studying the longevity of the Japanese, there's a noticeable decrease in deaths due to stroke, cancer, and cardiovascular diseases compared to other countries worldwide.
As per Professor Masaaki, individuals in the Tokyo and Hokkaido regions tend to favor this dish, while those in Osaka or Kobe show less inclination towards it.
It's not just natto; this dish also features tuna. This fish boasts numerous health benefits, including promoting eye health, preventing diabetes, inhibiting cancer, and supporting heart health. Therefore, the tuna natto rice bowl is widely loved and regularly consumed by many.
According to Professor Masaaki, those repelled by the scent of natto won't take a liking to it from the start. However, if someone enjoys it, they're likely to get hooked from the very first taste.
Despite his advanced age, Professor Masaaki remains remarkably robust. He engages in regular walks, sports activities, and even practices martial arts. Perhaps his vibrant health is a result of his healthy and scientific dietary habits.
Personally, I can't bear the smell of this dish, but I tried it nonetheless. It's true that once you dislike it, no amount of effort can make you like it. However, for those who haven't tried it, give it a shot; who knows, you might end up liking it.
Regrettably, I couldn't stomach the tuna natto rice bowl, despite its numerous benefits. Yet, when it comes to other dishes like scrambled eggs, teriyaki chicken, or various sushi with salmon and tuna, I thoroughly enjoy them.
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