Countries that eat a traditional Asian diet have lower rates of many illnesses that plague the Western world such as diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, cancer, and obesity. The Asian diet is plant-based. Most calories come from grains, vegetables, and fruit. The benefits of a diet rich in fruits and vegetables are well documented. Full of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, the Asian diet is very healthful.
Antioxidants are a category of vitamins and minerals that help to prevent damage to the body caused by substances called free radicals. Free radicals are the by-products of molecular functions in the body and environmental toxins ingested such as tobacco smoke and radiation. Antioxidants are believed to reduce the negative impact of these free radicals and reduce the risk of certain forms of cancer and heart disease.
Fruits and vegetables also provide fiber. Many studies have shown that adequate amounts of fiber in the diet may reduce the risk of several forms of cancer including colon cancer, the third most prevalent cancer among both men and women in the United States.
The Asian diet limits fat in general and almost completely eliminates saturated fat. A diet high in saturated fat has been shown to cause chronic illnesses such as coronary artery disease, obesity, and cancer. Many researchers believe this is the primary reason such diets are so healthy.
