When I hear Japanese diet, immediately sushi pops into my head - but raw fish isn't the only component to a "Japanese diet." Did you know that the Japanese are known to be one the healthiest people in the world. They have the lowest obesity rate on earth! AND also have lower rates of heart disease, osteoporosis, breast and prostate cancer than us in the United States. So than what is the so-called "Japanese diet?"

Here are some foods that are included in the Japanese diet:

Rice: The Japanese diet consists of a huge amount of rice, up to six amount more than an average American. Rice is served with every meal including breakfast. Rice tends to fill up your stomach more, leaving you to not munch on your favorite chips or Ben & Jerry’s ice cream. Brown rice is more heavily consumed due to the fact that it is healthier than white rice.

Vegetables: Simmering vegetables are one of the Japanese favorite meals. Usually there are four or five different vegetables served in one meal. You can simmer vegetables in season broth, or lightly steam them. Either way will give you the right amount of nutrients for the day. Some vegetables include cabbage, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, Chinese cabbage, cauliflower, kale, watercress, radishes, parsnips, and turnips and mushrooms.

Fish: Salmon, tuna, sardines, herring are among some of Japanese picks for their fish. Fish is usually eaten fresh but also consumer in a salted or dried and pickled form, or even raw. There are generally two fish courses that are served at each meal; one cold fish and one hot. Fish broth is also a fundamental component of the Japanese diet.

Soy: Soy beans are used a lot when preparing dishes, and Japanese sauces and marinades are based on soy sauce. Broths flavor food is used instead of heavy sauces which eliminates a lot of calorie intake. One of these famous sauces is called Dashi, which is sold in many gourmet stores or you can eat it yourself.

Ending your meal: As surprising as it may be, Japanese don’t like sugary desserts. Instead they enjoy pounded rice (also called mochi) covered with sweet bean paste. If they do, however, enjoy a sweet dessert, it is a very small portion.

Beverages: All meals in Japan are served with green tea. Black tea coffee and milk are also common.

Fruits: (such as fugi apples and tangerines) and noodles are also essential in the Japanese diet. It’s not like you have to cook Japanese style to enjoy it.

Tricks to eating the Japanese way are by using smaller plates and eating with your eyes. The smaller the plate the smaller the portion, and by using your eyes you are able to enjoy the looks of your food. Also as we know, eating slowly will also help give your brain time to realize it's full and for you to savor the flavor. The Japanese claim that you should only eat until your're about 80% full.

I don't eat sushi, but I'm in for the rest!