Ejercicio 1 - Opción B - 2 · Inglés PAU Aragón Ordinaria 2021

Why people in Okinawa live longer than almost anyone on Earth

South of mainland Japan lies Okinawa, a group of islands known as the “land of the immortals” because residents here have among the longest life spans. Okinawans have also been found to have low rates of heart disease, stroke, cancer and diabetes. As researchers try to understand the reasons for the unusually long and healthy lives of these island residents, they have become convinced that their diet is a key component.

The traditional local diet was highlighted by scientists as a diet that works well for human health and for reducing the environmental impact of our food choices. Overall, their diet is a low-calorie, high-carbohydrate — mainly due to the sweet potatoes — moderate-protein and nutrient-rich diet, with sparse amounts of meat, refined grains, sugar and dairy. One study found that the ratio of protein to carbohydrates in the Okinawan diet (1:10) is nearly identical to the ratios in diets found to optimize life span.

In contrast, the typical U.S. diet lacks dietary fiber and a number of other nutrients. It also contains too much saturated fat and salt. While many Okinawans practice what is called hara hachi bu, which means eat until you are 80 percent full, many Americans consume a high number of calories. This kind of diet increases the risk of obesity.

Another factor in explaining the long lives of the Okinawan population is well-being and purpose. A social role and sense of belonging are seen as important as people get older. Certainly people who have stronger networks and who feel they have a role appear to suffer less from age-related diseases.

OPTION B

2. Answer the following questions according to the information given in the text. Use your own words. (2 points)

a)

According to scientists, what are the two benefits of the traditional Okinawan diet?

b)

In addition to the diet, are there other reasons why people in Okinawa live longer?