Japanese Bento Box (Photo : Twitter )
The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported that today the global average lifespan is increasing, and most people around the world will live into their sixties. Japan had the longest life expectancies, followed by East Asia and the Mediterranean. WHO researchers tracked longevity starting at 60 years old, as it is mostly based on how healthy a senior citizen's lifestyle and environment are during old age.
Japan's life expectancy starting at age 60 was an average 86 years old. Social scientists believe this is due to factors such as healthy diets, active lifestyles, and supportive families, according to CNN.
Over one-quarter of Japan's population is now at least 65 years old. In addition, Okinawa Island has a greater ratio of centenarians than any other global region.
John Beard is WHO's director of Aging and Life-course. He shared that Japan's traditional diet features fresh fish and vegetables, with low levels of meat and "bad" fat.
Another key issue is the regular physical exercise of many Japanese, who often continue to exercise outdoors as elderly people. In addition, the excellent healthcare system focuses on key factors such as blood pressure.
Ranked second in terms of the healthiest countries were several countries in the Mediterranean and East Asia regions. They also included countries with strong economies and good healthcare.
Europe now has more older people than younger people. Over half of the continent's population will live to 85 years old.
That is especially true in Southern Europe, whose Mediterranean diet traditionally includes olive oil, fresh vegetables, and a daily glass of wine. It is also easier to exercise in the warm climate than in Northern Europe.
Israel also has a life expectancy of 85 starting at 60 years old. Experts believe this is greatly due to a diet that includes omega-3-rich soybean and corn oil.
The WHO researchers also reported that social relationships help to boost countries' life expectancies. Having a good balance between family and work life can result in better health.
Another recent longevity study found that happiness does not result in a longer lifespan. It discovered no difference in death rates among happy and unhappy people, according to Time.
Here is the secret to long life based on one study:
