Healthy stories of Japan and government support under the Principles of Lifestyle Medicine

Abstract

Japan is one of the countries with the highest life expectancy in the world, with an average of 81.09 years for men and 87.14 years for women. This achievement is largely attributed to health-promoting lifestyles combined with consistent and strategic public health policies. This article reviews the core principles of lifestyle medicine, which comprise six key pillars: nutrition, physical activity, sleep, stress management, avoidance of tobacco and alcohol, and social relationships. These principles are illustrated through Japanese philosophies and practices, such as Hara Hachibu, which encourages eating until 80% full; Washoku, a traditional dietary culture emphasizing healthy and balanced ingredients; and Ikigai, a life philosophy that promotes harmony and well-being of both body and mind. The Japanese government plays a crucial role in integrating lifestyle medicine into national health policy through initiatives such as the “Health Japan 21” campaign and the Ningen Dock comprehensive health check-up system, which focuses on early disease detection and the prevention of complications. In addition, regulatory measures to reduce smoking and alcohol consumption are implemented through taxation, public smoking bans, and smoking cessation counseling services. Thailand may adapt these strategies to address the rising burden of non-communicable diseases and to prepare for an aging society. This adaptation includes developing public health policies that integrate lifestyle medicine into the Thai context, promoting healthy behaviors, improving access to preventive health screenings, and establishing community-based support systems to ensure long-term population health sustainability.