Shalom good people.

In my 5am book club we are currently reading Ikigai  the Japanese secret to a long and happy life.

Among many things, of course being on a good diet is one of the secrets.

But most importantly is the portioning of the food and that is where the 80% rule comes in.

I will quote the book below;

“One of the most common sayings in Japan is “Hara hachi bu,” which is repeated before or after eating and means something like “Fill your belly to 80 percent.” Ancient wisdom advises against eating until we are full.”

So of course there is no way to objectively measure 80% but we need to stop eating once we start to feel full or better yet we can just serve in small plates like the Japanese people.

That is how they are able to watch the amount of food that they eat.

Eating to your fullest usually slows the body down. Remember that time you overate and how you felt?

I read somewhere that Over time, overeating may harm brain function and that  several studies tie continual overeating and obesity to mental decline in older adults, compared with those who do not overeat. Also, When you overeat, your body uses some of the calories you consume for energy. The rest are stored as fat hence consuming more calories than you burn which may cause you to become overweight or obese. This increases your risk for cancer and other chronic health problems.

So think twice before you go for that extra plate of food.

And of course before I end this blog, how can I not talk about salads?

I have been on an only salads diet for a while and only eat other foods when I go out or visit family.

And currently I am working on cutting off meat from my diet.

I feel younger, wiser and more energetic from being consistent with my salad diet.

Anyway I urge you to practise the 80% rule if you want to live longer and be happy while at it.

Thank you for passing by my blog.

Leave a comment below and tell me what you think of the 80% rule.

Also below aare another 10rules from ikigai. Enjoy;