Unlocking the health secrets of the Japanese water diet: Hydration as a route to longevity
While it potentially sounds like a severely limiting eating regimen, it's essentially an easy-to-implement water-drinking habit that yields multiple positive impacts. Considering that the average life expectancy in Japan is 85 years old, it's worthwhile to consider the water diet that is prevalent in their culture.
3 Feb 2024 | updated: 7 March 2024 09:23
What constitutes the Japanese water diet?
The fundamentals of the Japanese water diet stipulate attentive hydration, starting each morning. Immediately after awakening, you should drink about 620 ml (rounded to the nearest 10 ml) of warm water. Then, wait for around 20-30 minutes before having breakfast or any other drink, such as coffee or tea.
The Japanese water diet suggests drinking water 20-30 minutes before each meal throughout the day. This aids in achieving a sense of fullness, thus preventing overeating. However, according to the Japanese water diet, water should not be consumed during meals. This guidance aims to preserve the proper concentration of stomach acids. After meals, waiting approximately 1.5 hours before drinking more water is recommended.
Further rules of the Japanese water diet dictate having a glass of water 30 minutes before sleeping. It is advised to drink between 1.5 to 3 litres of water throughout the day, depending on individual needs.
How does the Japanese water diet benefit health?
Regular water intake is crucial for the body's proper functioning. Strategically hydrating in small increments throughout the day is essential (the body will not effectively utilise fluids if a large amount is drunk at once). Regularity is the name of the game. Adhering to the Japanese water diet's guidelines results in optimal hydration, which garners many positive effects.
Practising the Japanese water diet greatly enhances the function of the entire digestive system. This is attributed to water's role in accelerating metabolism, promoting digestion, and enabling waste removal. Additionally, the Japanese water diet facilitates better circulation and oxygenation within the body, detoxes the body, and improves concentration and fitness levels. When paired with a balanced, calorically-reduced diet, it accelerates weight loss. Water's effect on the body is also beneficial for skin health. A well-hydrated body produces a radiant complexion, elastic skin, and a well-tended physique.
