Accuracy of the centenarian numbers in Okinawa and the role of the Okinawan diet on longevity: responses to Le Bourg about the article "Exploring the impact of climate on human longevity"

Abstract

This response letter addresses two points raised by le Bourg when discussing our previous paper entitled "Exploring the impact of climate on human longevity". First, the arguments explaining the accuracy of the numbers of centenarian in Okinawa are developed, and second the composition and healthfulness of the traditional Okinawan diet are described as well as the changes in dietary pattern and their impact on longevity.

Keywords: Agricultural production; Centenarians; Climate; Japan; Okinawan diet; Socioeconomic factors.