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TOKYO : The Japanese enjoy the longest life span in the world, with a large number passing the 100-year mark and breaking records for longevity.
Scenic surroundings, clean air and abundant crops form an idyllic setting for a peaceful and long life in Amami in Kagoshima Prefecture.
Summer temperatures here rarely exceed 30 degrees Celsius, while winters are mild enough for residents to go without stoves at home.
Amami Islands lie between Kyushu and Okinawa in southern Japan.
This part of Japan is known for a special sort of people - they are known for their longevity.
In fact, density-wise, this group of islands is home to the highest ratio of centenarians in Japan - nearly 120 of them, all happy and ready to share their secrets of longevity.
Yuki Migita is a local celebrity as she is the oldest member of the community.
The 109-year-old said, "I'm very careful about what I eat. I don't have strong likes and dislikes, but I make sure I only eat what my stomach can comfortably hold. I try not to have snacks between meals."
Many islanders still practise a dietary philosophy known as "hara hachi bu" - eight out of 10 parts.
That simply means eating until you are 80 percent full, and not stuffing yourself.
Seafood is plentiful on the Amamis.
The islanders are said to eat an average of 97.1 grammes of seafood daily, higher than the national average of 92 grammes.
Some studies suggest that omega-3 fatty acids in seafood protect against a host of ailments including heart disease, inflammation, stroke, and even mental decline.
Amami residents told Channel NewsAsia they also consume a lot of seaweed - mostly dipped in vinegar. And seaweed is known to be rich in minerals.
Ashitaba and handama are both strongly-coloured leafy greens, and they are said to contain many vitamins and potent compounds called phytonutrients.
Green tea - known to contain antioxidants which may have a protective effect against cancer - is a beverage that Amami islanders enjoy daily.
Kokuto shochu is popular with the islanders who say the drink is rich in vitamins and minerals.
The relative isolation of the Amami islands has enabled many residents to retain a traditional diet and lifestyle.
There are few toxins, minimal pollution, and not much of the stress associated with urban living.
With many elderly residents still adhering to exemplary diets, it is likely that the Amamis will keep producing record breakers for some time to come. - CNA/ms
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