3 Vegetables Japanese People Eat Often to Stay Youthful and Live Long — Always Available at the Market and Surprisingly Cheap

One of the secrets to Japanese longevity and youthful health lies in their habit of eating plenty of vegetables every day.

Japan has long been one of the countries with the highest life expectancy in the world. Besides genetics and a high-quality lifestyle, the Japanese secret to long life mainly comes from their daily habits — especially their diet and the way they use food.

People in the Land of the Rising Sun deeply understand the health benefits of each ingredient and incorporate them into everyday meals. In particular, they tend to combine various nutrient-rich vegetables and eat in moderation.

According to nutrition experts, below are 3 types of vegetables most commonly found in Japanese meals, which are also widely available — and very affordable — in Vietnamese markets.

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1. Seaweed

Seaweed is a staple in Japanese cuisine, featured in many daily dishes. It’s especially popular among residents of Okinawa — known as the “island of longevity,” where many people live past 100. The Japanese believe seaweed helps detoxify the body, support digestion, and strengthen the immune system, keeping the body cool and balanced, especially in summer.

According to research from the U.S. National Library of Medicine (PMC), certain seaweed extracts can regulate aging-related pathways and may even extend lifespan. Dr. Frank Lipman also highlights that seaweed is rich in antioxidants that reduce inflammation and support heart, brain, and gut health — key factors in slowing down aging. Moreover, bioactive compounds in seaweed can enhance SIRT1, a protein linked to longevity and anti-aging.

Japanese women often add seaweed to miso soup or salads to keep their skin smooth and wrinkle-free, thanks to its hydrating and antioxidant properties.

2. Purple Sweet Potatoes

Purple sweet potatoes are commonly mashed or roasted in Japanese cuisine. They’re a key part of the Okinawan diet, known to promote long life, cooling the body while providing steady energy. Rich in fiber, they help control weight and improve digestion.

According to PubMed, purple sweet potato extract may extend lifespan by promoting autophagy (cellular cleanup) and enhancing stress resistance. Healthline notes that they’re high in anthocyanins, powerful antioxidants that protect against heart disease, cancer, and aging. EatingWell adds that these compounds reduce inflammation and guard against age-related conditions thanks to vitamin C and fiber.

The Japanese often roast or mash purple sweet potatoes to eat as a snack or side dish — a simple way to rejuvenate skin and prevent early wrinkles by boosting cell regeneration.

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3. Daikon Radish

Daikon (white radish) is a common ingredient in Japanese cooking, often pickled or sautéed. It’s known for its cooling properties and ability to help the body detoxify. The Japanese include it in soups, stews, and pickles for its health benefits.

According to Healthline, eating daikon can help maintain a healthy weight and protect against heart disease and cancer. Clinikally points out that daikon seed oil has anti-aging effects, helping reduce wrinkles thanks to vitamin C and antioxidants. WebMD also reports that daikon is rich in vitamin C, which fights inflammation and boosts the immune system.

In Japanese meals, daikon is often used to ease bloating and aid digestion — small benefits that, over time, contribute to overall health and longevity.