Exotic eating = better health
Thursday 04 June 2009
We’re always being bombarded with reports that British life – from our Western diets to the miserable weather – is damaging our health. There’s some truth behind the reporting, too, with cases of physical ailments such as high cholesterol and obesity skyrocketing, and conditions such as anxiety and seasonal affective disorder also on the rise.
If you fancy improving your health the continental way, we’ve sought out some of the healthiest nations in the world, and shared their health-heightening tips – great if you need to drop a few pounds, improve your mental outlook or just feel a bit better.
Italy
Italian woman have a tendency to look amazing for their age, which could be down to the fact that their lifestyles are far more relaxed, and far less based around the ‘9 to 5’ that gets to a lot of us Brits. Their secret could be the sleep they have, with many businesses and shops shutting between the hours of 1 and 4 so citizens can workers alike can get some much-needed shut-eye. As well as the improvement in mental clarity, this can also stop people from snacking, as the body releases less ghrelin (the hormone that makes you crave carbohydrates) when it has had enough sleep.
Denmark
Women in Denmark have lower rates of depression, which is credited to a less materialistic lifestyle. People in Denmark are more likely to spend money on experiences rather than material objects, so the next time you find yourself reaching for the plastic in Topshop, consider going to a concert, exhibition or city break – it could offer you some fulfilment that lasts longer than a shopping session.
Iceland
Fish seems to be the key to good health for Icelandic women, who report a lower rate of depression, despite the fact that Iceland has very little sunlight at certain times of the year. The average Icelander eats a massive 225lbs of fish every year, which is definitely more than we can say! We Brits are surrounded by water, so it’s baffling why fish isn’t more popular (and we don’t mean the kind you serve with chips). Opt for some fresh white fish instead of chicken in some of your regular meals, or have a portion of tuna in your baguette.
Switzerland
The rate of obesity is much lower in Switzerland, despite it being the land of cheese and chocolate! The reasons for this are down to the fact that many women walk for most of their errands, rather than rely on public transport or a car. Try walking to and from the shops the next time you have a moderate haul (the bags can be your hand weights!). Depending on your calorie overload, a mile-long walk can burn up to 100 calories.
Japan
Japanese women live longer than any other nation’s population, and nutritionists say that this is down to their ridiculously healthy diets. Soya products are particularly popular in Japan, with most people tucking into miso soups, edamame beans, tofu and soy milk on a daily basis. An easy way to add soya to your diet is to try sweetened soya milk on cereal in the morning (it tends to separate in hot drinks though, meaning it’s not suited for your daily cuppa!) Green tea has been a staple drink in Japan for years, and is becoming increasingly popular in the West, thanks to its high antioxidant level (green tea is black tea that has been left to ferment, boosting its nutritional qualities).
South Korea
Women in South Korea eat a lot of garlic in their diet, which might not be best if you’re a social butterfly (you won’t be for much longer!), but the health benefits more than outweigh the breath-related side effects. Garlic contains an enzyme called allicin, which has been proven to reduce cholesterol levels, as it stops fats that circulate in the blood from sticking to artery walls. Kimchi, a popular Korean dish, is made from raw garlic and pickled vegetables, including cabbage, which contains high quantities of immune-boosting Vitamin C. If you can’t stomach it, try making your own coleslaw with light mayonnaise to get a good dose of cabbage, or add some raw garlic to a stir-fry (it won’t taste as strong if it’s been cooked lightly).
France
There has been a lot of speculation as to whether red wine is beneficial or detrimental to your health, but the odds are mostly stacked in its favour. People who drink a moderate amount of red wine (that means a few glasses a week, not a few bottles!) have a 40% less chance of developing heart disease. If that wasn’t enough, a glass of high-quality wine is packed with antioxidants. Look for one that’s dark in colour – you won’t get as much benefit out of red wine you can see through.
Greece
The Mediterranean diet is responsible for the lack. The diet is rich in olive oil, which is used in cooking as opposed to sunflower oil or butter, and is very high in fruit and vegetables. It’s not without its indulgences; it’s just that they stick to high-calcium varieties of cheese such as halloumi, mozzarella and feta, meaning the health benefits are still there. The basis of Mediterranean eating is down to the fact that very little mass-produced food is used, with staples such as bread commonly being made from scratch.
By Amy Bangs