Are you looking for tips on Japanese diet to lose weight? Well, I got you covered. Read further to know some secrets of Japanese health tips to lose weight!
When you go to Japan, you will realize that women in Japan have a body that is so much different from us. The doors in Japan are shorter in height, hallways are narrower, and the height of women is also shorter than most women of the west.
What are some Japanese health tips to lose weight?
Some Japanese health tips to lose weight are following the Japanese diet and including more of raw vegetables and sea food in your meals and reduce red meat. Do not drink water in between your meals. Drink green tea that is good for losing weight. Restore your health and fitness by including light exercises in your workout, avoid heavy training. Have warm bath and maintain your body temperature according to the environmental climate.
All of these factors can make you quite self-conscious about your body, especially if you are going through a weight loss phase.
Most of us have tried numerous diets and weight loss tips to get back in shape and size but to no avail. When I first went to Japan and saw the perfect bodies of Japanese women, I wondered whether there was a secret formula that was adopted by them.
I had been trying for years to get in shape, and in Japan, there seemed to be quite a lot of information about healthy eating and exercising.
You will also notice that finding clothes that fit you can be quite a task in Japan since they follow the “one-size-fits-all” formula with these Japanese weight loss tips.
Let’s move on to some Japanese health tips to lose weight!
Simple Japanese Diet To Lose Weight Fast
The Japanese diet is a traditional eating pattern in Japan characterized by balanced meals, portion control, and fresh ingredients. It includes staple foods like rice and noodles, fish and seafood, a variety of vegetables, fermented foods, soy-based products, and seaweed. Processed and sugary foods are limited, while portion control and mindful eating are emphasized.
The Japanese diet is known for its health benefits and is associated with weight management and a lower risk of chronic diseases.
Japanese Diet Breakfast Meal Plan
Option 1:
- Steamed white rice (⅓ cup)
- Grilled salmon fillet (3 oz)
- Steamed broccoli
- Miso soup (made with tofu and seaweed)
- Sliced fresh fruit
Option 2:
- Japanese-style omelet (made with egg, diced vegetables, and a small amount of soy sauce)
- Mixed greens salad with a sesame dressing
- Green tea
- Related: Best Japanese Weight Loss Drinks
- Related: Best Japanese Green Tea for Weight Loss
Japanese Diet Lunch Meal Plan
Option 1:
- Soba noodles (1 small bundle) with thinly sliced grilled chicken breast and stir-fried vegetables (such as bell peppers, carrots, and snow peas)
- Cucumber and seaweed salad
- Edamame (steamed soybeans)
- Water or unsweetened green tea
Option 2:
- Bento box with sushi rolls (made with brown rice, fish, and vegetables)
- Miso soup
- Pickled vegetables
- Watermelon slices
Afternoon Snack
Option 1:
- Mixed berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries)
- Greek yogurt
- Roasted almonds
Option 2:
- Seaweed snacks
- Carrot sticks with hummus
Japanese Diet Dinner Meal Plan
Option 1:
- Grilled chicken teriyaki with a homemade sauce (moderate portion size)
- Stir-fried mixed vegetables (such as broccoli, snap peas, and mushrooms)
- Steamed brown rice
- Clear vegetable soup (made with dashi broth and vegetables)
Option 2:
- Tofu and vegetable stir-fry (using a minimal amount of oil and low-sodium soy sauce)
- Quinoa
- Miso soup with tofu and green onions
- Steamed bok choy
Evening Snack:
Option 1:
- Sliced melon (such as cantaloupe or honeydew)
- Roasted seaweed snacks
Option 2:
- Matcha green tea smoothie (made with matcha powder, unsweetened almond milk, spinach, and a small amount of honey)
Japanese Health Tips To Lose Weight
- Emphasis on Fresh and Seasonal Foods
One thing that is often ignored but is of utmost importance is to keep your body temperature adjusted to the climate. This is the best Japanese health tips to lose weight I’ve gotten.
When I first came to Japan, I realized that it is important to keep your body warm. I couldn’t understand why this piece of advice was given to me at that time as in the west, I was never told anything like that.
We spend a lot of time in the west by just calculating the nutritional density of food items, but we tend to ignore the process which goes into making those food items. The way food is prepared can affect our circulation.
In western countries, you will find that people try to lose weight by eating raw foods, salads, and juices simply because of their nutritional content. However, in Japan, these food items are not very popular and are not commonly eaten.
Japanese cook most of their foods and when cooking, they make use of ginger or miso which are known to be extremely helpful for digestion and circulation. They also make sure to include a lot of seasonal vegetables. Doing this helps our bodies acclimatize to our climate. Japanese health tips to lose weight will always include raw and seasonal veggies.
Raw foods, although, extremely dense in terms of nutrition, can be very hard for our bodies to digest. These raw foods are also considered to be cooling to the body.
You also need to see that you have strong circulation and warmth, which are both extremely important for body balance.
If you want to go on a raw food diet, it is advisable to do that during the summer months since your bodies need to cool off in the heat. Hence, This is one Japanese health tips to lose weight that really works.
Balanced and Varied Meals
- Staple Foods:
The foundation of a Japanese meal is typically a serving of rice or noodles. These staple foods provide energy in the form of complex carbohydrates and are consumed in moderation. Choosing whole grain options like brown rice or buckwheat noodles adds more fiber and nutrients to the meal.
- Vegetables:
Vegetables are highly valued in the Japanese diet for their nutritional content and contribution to overall health. A variety of vegetables, both cooked and raw, are included in meals.
Popular choices include leafy greens like spinach and kale, root vegetables like daikon radish and sweet potatoes, and seasonal vegetables such as bamboo shoots and lotus root.
These vegetables are low in calories, high in fiber, and packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
- Seafood and Fish:
Seafood and fish are integral components of the Japanese diet, providing lean protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential minerals.
Fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines are rich in heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, which have been linked to various health benefits, including weight management.
Seafood options like shrimp, scallops, and squid are also popular. These protein sources are often grilled, steamed, or lightly seasoned to preserve their natural flavors.
- Fermented Soy Products:
Fermented soy products are widely consumed in Japan due to their health benefits and umami flavors. Tofu, miso, and soy sauce are common examples.
Tofu, made from soybean curd, is a versatile ingredient that can be used in soups, stir-fries, and salads. Miso, a fermented soybean paste, is used to make flavorful broths for soups and stews.
These fermented soy products provide plant-based protein, probiotics, and other essential nutrients.
- Seaweed:
Seaweed is a nutrient-dense ingredient frequently used in Japanese cuisine. It is low in calories and high in minerals like iodine, calcium, and iron.
Seaweed varieties such as nori (used for sushi), wakame (in salads and miso soup), and kombu (for making broths) add unique flavors and textures to meals while boosting their nutritional value.
- Pickled Vegetables:
Pickled vegetables, known as tsukemono, are a common accompaniment to Japanese meals. They provide a tangy and refreshing taste and aid in digestion. Popular pickled vegetables include cucumbers, radishes, cabbage, and ginger.
The pickling process enhances their shelf life while adding probiotics and beneficial enzymes.
- Balanced Protein Choices
While seafood and fish are emphasized, the Japanese diet also includes small portions of meat and poultry.
Chicken, pork, and beef are consumed in moderation, often sliced thinly and used as a garnish or flavoring agent rather than the main focus of the meal. This approach helps to control calorie intake while still providing essential nutrients.
Portion Control and Mindful Eating
Portion control is a crucial aspect of the Japanese diet. Japanese meals are served in smaller portions compared to Western diets, allowing individuals to enjoy a variety of flavors without overeating. Additionally, the practice of mindful eating is deeply ingrained in Japanese culture. Eating slowly, savoring each bite, and paying attention to physical cues of hunger and fullness are all part of this mindful eating approach.
- Portion Control
Portion control is a key component of the Japanese diet. Traditional Japanese meals are served in smaller portions compared to Western diets, which helps in managing calorie intake.
The focus is on quality rather than quantity. By consuming smaller portions, individuals can enjoy a variety of flavors without overeating or feeling deprived.
- Bento Boxes
Bento boxes, traditional Japanese lunch boxes, are a practical example of portion control. These boxes are divided into compartments, each containing a different food item.
The compartments help in maintaining portion sizes and ensure a balanced meal. Bento boxes often include a small serving of rice or noodles, protein (such as fish or tofu), vegetables, and pickled items. This practice encourages mindful eating and prevents overconsumption.
- Mindful Eating
Mindful eating is a practice deeply ingrained in Japanese culture. It involves paying attention to the sensory experiences of eating, such as the smell, taste, texture, and appearance of food.
By practicing mindfulness while eating, individuals can develop a stronger connection with their food, enhance their enjoyment of meals, and recognize their body's hunger and fullness cues.
- Eating Slowly
In Japanese culture, eating slowly is considered important for digestion and overall health. Taking the time to chew food thoroughly and savor each bite allows for better digestion and promotes a feeling of satiety. By eating slowly, individuals are more likely to recognize when they are full, preventing overeating.
- Enjoying the Visual Appeal:
The Japanese diet places a strong emphasis on the presentation and visual appeal of food.
Care is taken to arrange the meal in an aesthetically pleasing manner. This practice not only enhances the dining experience but also encourages mindful eating.
By appreciating the visual beauty of the food, individuals are more likely to eat slowly and be fully present in the moment.
- Engaging the Senses:
The Japanese diet engages multiple senses during mealtime. The inclusion of various flavors, textures, and aromas in a single meal stimulates the senses and adds to the enjoyment of eating. This sensory experience helps to satisfy cravings and prevents the need for large portions to feel satisfied.
- Paying Attention to Satiation:
The Japanese diet emphasizes the importance of stopping eating when satiated rather than when feeling completely full.
This practice allows individuals to maintain a comfortable level of fullness without overindulging. By paying close attention to the body's signals of hunger and fullness, individuals can develop a better relationship with food and maintain a healthier weight.
Consumption of Fermented Foods
Fermented foods like miso, natto, and pickled vegetables are staples in the Japanese diet. These foods are probiotic powerhouses, promoting a healthy gut microbiome. A balanced gut flora contributes to efficient digestion and improved nutrient absorption, which can positively impact weight management.
Minimal Processed and Sugary Foods
The traditional Japanese diet minimizes the consumption of processed and sugary foods. These foods are often high in added sugars, unhealthy fats, and empty calories. By avoiding or reducing the intake of such foods, individuals following the Japanese diet can better control their calorie intake and maintain a healthier weight.
- Whole and Unprocessed Foods
The Japanese diet prioritizes whole, unprocessed foods over heavily processed ones. Processed foods often contain added sugars, unhealthy fats, and artificial additives, while lacking essential nutrients.
By focusing on whole foods like fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, individuals following the Japanese diet consume a more nutrient-dense and satisfying diet.
- Limited Added Sugar
The Japanese diet is generally low in added sugars. Sugary beverages, processed snacks, and desserts are not commonly consumed in traditional Japanese cuisine. Instead, natural sweetness is derived from fresh fruits, which are eaten in moderation.
By reducing the intake of added sugars, individuals can lower calorie consumption and decrease the risk of weight gain and related health issues.
- Healthy Snack Choices
When it comes to snacks, the Japanese diet encourages healthier alternatives. Instead of reaching for sugary and calorie-dense options, the focus is on snacks that provide nutritional value.
Common choices include fresh fruits, roasted nuts, seaweed snacks, edamame (steamed soybeans), and small portions of traditional sweets made from natural ingredients like red bean paste or mochi (glutinous rice cake).
- Homemade Meals
Preparing meals at home using fresh ingredients is a central component of the Japanese diet. This approach allows individuals to have greater control over the ingredients used and the cooking methods employed.
By avoiding pre-packaged meals, takeout foods, and fast food, individuals can reduce their intake of processed foods and excessive added sugars.
- Light Seasoning
Japanese cuisine tends to use lighter seasonings, such as soy sauce, miso, and vinegar, to enhance the flavors of dishes.
These seasonings add depth without excessive amounts of added salt or sugar. By relying on these natural flavor enhancers, individuals can reduce their consumption of high-sodium and high-sugar condiments commonly found in processed foods.
- Drinking Water and Green Tea
Water is the primary beverage choice in the Japanese diet. It is calorie-free, hydrating, and aids in digestion. Green tea, a popular beverage in Japan, is also consumed regularly.
Green tea is rich in antioxidants and offers various health benefits, including boosting metabolism and aiding in fat oxidation. By choosing water and green tea over sugary beverages, individuals can reduce calorie intake and promote hydration.
- Mindful Food Selection
In line with mindful eating practices, the Japanese diet encourages individuals to be mindful of the food choices they make.
This involves reading food labels, being aware of the ingredients and nutritional information of packaged foods, and making conscious decisions to prioritize whole, unprocessed options. By being selective in food choices, individuals can avoid processed foods that are often high in added sugars.
Drink Green Tea
Green tea is one of the best drinks to have while you're on your weight loss journey. I really owe a big one to my friend for suggesting this tip as its one of the best Japanese health tips to lose weight. Green tea is packed with antioxidants that fights with various diseases like cancer, heart diseases and also promote weight loss.
It is great for getting rid of the belly fat we often think is impossible to lose. Also, drinking plain water as the first thing in the morning helps a lot and many Japanese women follow it. It cleanses the digestive system and results in happy and healthy skin.
Body Care Is Essential for Body Balance
In Japanese culture, it is quite common to take a bath instead of a shower as is done in western countries. This is one of the Japanese health tips to lose weight that will astonish you so read thoroughly.
While this may look quite out of the place when talking of weight loss, it has a huge role to play in your weight loss journey. Yes, taking a bath can really help you lose weight.
It is quite common in Japan for women to indulge in what is known as a “half-bath” technique for weight loss.
This is a technique where you fill the tub to just under your chest level. And then you have to soak yourself in the water for about 20 minutes and stay between 38-42 degrees. This is also called japanese water therapy for weight loss.
Taking a bath can help you burn as many calories as you burn when you take a half-hour walk. And that’s not all. Soaking in water for 20 minutes can also reduce blood sugar levels, lower inflammation, and improve the quality of your sleep.
All of these together help you to lose weight and improve body balance which is why it is one of the top Japanese health tips to lose weight.
While the Japanese recommend the temperature of the water to be between 38-42 degrees, you will be able to reap the benefits of taking a bath if you keep the temperature of the water to at least 37 degrees.
Good Quantity of Sea Food and Less Red Meat
Japanese diet is rich in sea food especially fish as its their staple. Fish is a great source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids and other essential nutrients that reduces excess fat and promotes weight loss. It also improves cardiovascular and brain health.
Consuming more of sea food also prevent ageing and brings a glow on the face. I've been eating fish after I started my weight loss journey and the results are literally out there to prove that its one the best Japanese health to loose weight.
Consuming less red meat is a good idea if you're planning to lose weight as it contains a great amount of saturated fats. It can also increase cardiovascular risk and result in weight gain. After I reduced the consumption of red meat, it was so easy for me to shed weight.
Light Exercise is Better than Heavy Exercise to Slim Down
I was really surprised when my weighing scale showed that I had lost weight. It was surprising because I had not been exercising a lot when in Japan. According to Japanese health tips to lose weight, it is advised to keep it slow and cool.
When I was there, I was not hitting the gym every day for my regular high-intensity, sweat-inducing exercises. Instead, my exercise was limited to constantly walking around to complete all my errands.
It was very difficult for me to understand how this could lower my weight since most of us believe that we can only lose weight by exercising hard. But I found out that it was not true.
How? Doing less in terms of exercise can affect the kind of energy your body chooses to use. The physical stress that your body goes through can really cause a huge impact.
When you indulge in extremely intense workouts, your body will use up all the energy from your last meal. But that’s not all.
Once you have finished working out intensely, your body will be so tired, it would want to replenish all that lost energy. So, after a heavy workout, you tend to feel very hungry and also crave more sugar after a calming workout.
But if you indulge in simple walking, stretching, and yoga, you will really see a huge difference and will be able to see a leaner body. Japanese weight loss exercise with a towel is also very effective.
It is a common notion that is believed by many that in order to lose weight, you have to put in a lot of effort and indulge in extreme workouts. However, reducing stress by doing calming exercises can reap more benefits.
Calming exercises use your body’s fat as fuel instead of using your last meal. This means you get more results without putting in a lot of effort. This is one of the effective Japanese health tips to lose weight.
Do not Drink Water or Other Beverages During Meals
Drinking water in between your meals will hamper your digestion. This is because water neutralises the ph level of the stomach acid and it becomes hard to break down the food. Japanese people avoid drinking water for the same reason.
Consider drinking soup if you're feel your food is too dry. Don't opt for anything with caffeine like coffee or tea because that will result in dehydration. Honestly, this is one of the top Japanese health tips to lose weight as it is extremely effective.
How are Japanese women so slim?
When I was on my weight loss journey, I was told to avoid certain food items. However, in Japan, I was surprised to see that women were eating all those things and yet they managed to stay slim.
The Japanese women indulged in delicacies like noodles, rice, and cakes. They know how to eat all those things without having to face the consequences.
You will also notice that there aren’t any Japanese women who would power walk in spandex with a bottle under their arm. They walk around the city a lot and indulge in yoga to maintain their slim figure.
They also do not hit the gym for high-intensity training or anything else the way women in the west do. But, they do follow the Japanese weight loss tips quite religiously.
Seeing all of this made me wonder if there indeed was secret information that the Japanese had guarded for years. There really must be something about weight loss and healthy eating that these Japanese women knew but I was ignorant of.
At that time, I did not know what their secret was, but I was keen on finding out. And I did. I knew Japanese women ate a variety of foods, did not exercise much, and yet were not concerned about gaining those extra pounds.
How do Japanese get rid of belly fat?
Long-breath diet by Ryosuke can help you get rid of your belly fat quickly. It involves standing in a specific position, taking in 3-second breaths and exhaling for 7 seconds in a strong manner.
What is the secret of the Japanese healthy diet?
Japanese diet is balanced and small, it consists of omega-rich fish, rice, whole grains, tofu, soy, miso, seaweed and vegetables as their staple food.
All these food items are rich in vitamins and minerals that reduce the risk of chronic illnesses. These food items are low in saturated fats and sugars that do not promote weight gain.
What do Japanese people eat to lose weight?
To lose weight, Japanese people typically focus on a balanced diet consisting of whole, unprocessed foods. They incorporate plenty of vegetables, lean proteins like fish and tofu, and consume moderate portions of rice or noodles. They limit the intake of sugary and processed foods and emphasize mindful eating and portion control. Traditional Japanese practices like using smaller plates, savoring each bite, and drinking green tea are also common. Regular physical activity and a generally active lifestyle contribute to weight management.
Can Japanese diet make you lose weight?
Yes, the Japanese diet can support weight loss. It emphasizes whole, unprocessed foods, portion control, and mindful eating. By consuming nutrient-dense meals, limiting processed and sugary foods, and practicing portion control, individuals can create a calorie deficit and promote weight loss while maintaining a balanced and healthy diet.
How do Japanese eat so much and stay thin?
There are several factors that contribute to the relatively low obesity rates in Japan despite consuming larger quantities of food. The Japanese diet is typically nutrient-dense and focuses on whole, unprocessed foods. Additionally, portion control, mindful eating, an active lifestyle, and cultural practices play a role in weight management.
Try Out the Japanese Health Tips to Lose Weight!
There is so much health information available, but the way we interpret this information and make use of it can make all the difference in the world.
The Japanese really seem to have figured out weight loss perfectly. And if you too want to adopt their power of eating everything and yet staying slim, I suggest you start by taking down all these notes.
Add seasonal vegetables into your diet, enjoy hot baths, and pick exercises that let you lower down your stress level. Follow all of this and you will be surprised to see the wonderful results.
Hope these Japanese health tips to lose weight helped you and wish you all the best for your weight loss journey!
