Okinawa

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Okinawa (ō-kē-nä-wä)

Okinawa (Japanese: 沖縄県, Okinawa-ken) is a prefecture located in the southernmost part of Japan. It is known for its unique culture, history, and significant role in medical research, particularly in the field of gerontology.

Etymology

The term "Okinawa" is derived from "Oki," meaning "offshore," and "nawa," meaning "rope" in Japanese. This is believed to refer to the long, thin stretch of islands that make up the Okinawa Prefecture.

Medical Significance

Okinawa is renowned for its high concentration of centenarians, making it a focal point for studies on longevity and aging. The term "Okinawa diet" has been coined to describe the traditional dietary habits of Okinawans, which is believed to contribute to their exceptional lifespan.

Okinawa Diet

The Okinawa diet is characterized by low calorie intake, high consumption of vegetables, legumes, and soy products, and moderate consumption of fish. It is low in fat and sugar, but high in fiber, antioxidants, and essential nutrients. This diet is associated with lower rates of heart disease, cancer, and Alzheimer's disease.

Related Terms

  • Blue Zone: Regions of the world where people live much longer than average. Okinawa is one of the five original Blue Zones.
  • Okinawa Centenarian Study: An ongoing population-based study of centenarians and other selected elderly in Okinawa, Japan.
  • Ryukyu Islands: The chain of islands that includes Okinawa.
  • Karate: A martial art that originated in Okinawa.

External links

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