日本人长寿是有缘由的，其中一个缘由是他们常常吃豆类食品。
There are many reasons why Japanese people live longer than the rest of us. One reason might be soybean products like tofu, natto and miso. Scientists from the National Institute of Health and Nutrition in Tokyo conducted a study into the health benefits of soybeans and their products. They found that people who regularly ate tofu, natto and miso were 10 per cent less likely to die from common killers1 than people who ate no soybean products. Researchers said eating soybean-based food lowered the risk of death from heart attacks, stroke and other cardiovascular problems. They said: A higher intake2 of fermented3 soy products was associated with a lower risk of mortality.
Soybeans and fermented（发酵的） soybean products are superfoods. They are rich in protein, fibre and unsaturated（不饱和的） fats. They are also a source of potassium and other minerals. Soy fibre can help to lower cholesterol4 and boost weight loss. Soy is an important part of the cuisine5 of East Asia, especially in Japan. People in Asia have eaten soy since ancient times. The most common types of soy products are tofu , natto , miso and soy sauce. Some scientists say miso is high in salt. The researchers said salt in miso does not put people at risk of high blood pressure. Soybean products are becoming more popular around the world.
