6 healthy habits from around the world

You must have noticed how there is a specific health or lifestyle trait associated with every country of the world. People who travel extensively come across these quite easily and often pick them up, modifying their own habits for the better. There’s a reason why people hailing from East Asian countries tend to look younger for a lot longer, there is a secret behind the raw glow that most Europeans have on their faces and also why some people have better, more efficient immunity systems than the rest. As compiled from The Huffington Post, here are some of the top healthiest habits from around the world that you too can incorporate into your daily lives:

Plant-based proteins



Indians know it best: there are places to look for protein other than meat and poultry, and perhaps the richest form of the nutrient is plant-based. Indian cuisine offers a wide range of delicious lentil, bean and legume recipes. Apart from the fact that the meal becomes a lot cheaper than that prepared from meat, it is rich in minerals that maintain blood sugar and also keep heart-related diseases at bay.

Lukewarm water



Some tourists find it rather perplexing, but the Chinese firmly believe that drinking warm water or water at room temperature is the best way to go. There are a number of theories for this– the most popular one being that cold water consumed with meals solidifies fats, making the individual prone to coronary heart diseases. It is also common in the Mandarin culture to drink hot tea with meals for the same reason.

Friendly fatty acids



The Japanese consume more fish than any other nationality in the world. It is also no secret that they look younger for longer, have excellent skin, and great immune systems. This is because fish like salmon, mackerel and tuna — common features of popular dishes in authentic Japanese cuisine — are rich in Omega 3 fatty acids. This unsaturated form of healthy fat lowers risks of all-cause mortality. It prevents cancer development, mental illnesses, inflammation, cognitive aging and a number of developmental disabilities.

Vegetables and herbs



Mediterranean countries place a great deal of focus on the consumption of vegetables and herbs. Don’t be surprised if your hosts in Greece, Turkey, Morocco or Cyprus serve you greens as a main course. The women from this particular part of the world are known for their exceptional beauty and the flawless texture of their skin. The best way to get into the habit is by maintaining a small vegetable garden at home and growing herbs, tomatoes, cilantro, spinach and zucchini yourself. Whip up a salata with meals every day!

Walk more



Another thing you should definitely pick up next time you’re on a European vacation is that Europeans habitually walk a lot more than people from other parts of the globe. Most don’t even own personal vehicles and make it a point to stroll their way to grocery stores, shops, laundries or simply to enjoy a sunny day out. This keeps them active, safe from the risks of a sedentary lifestyle and healthier, even in old age.

Mustard and natural spices



A striking feature of Ethiopian cuisine is the extensive use of mustard. It is more than just a condiment for your hot dog — the natural spice is rich in phytonutrients than can help prevent cancer. Apart from having high nutritional value, it adds a lovely flavour to meals and also cuts down the amount of salt you’ll need to season your dishes. 

Tehmina Khan

Published in The Express Tribune, August 2^nd, 2016.

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