The nutrient intake and health conditions in zen monks

Abstract

In this study, we conducted investigations on zen monks training at monasteries who adopt a diet centered around vegetables in order to investigate their nutrient consumption state and health, and reviewed if their diet can be applied to prevent and minimize lifestyle-related diseases. The following is a report of the obtained results.
1) The nutrient consumption of zen monks was high carbohydrates, high dietary fiber, low fat, and low cholesterol, and this was especially conspicuous in the non-animal food consumption group.
2) Together with the dietary habits whose amount of energy consumption is high, it is suggested that it is effective for preventing and minimizing lifestyle-related diseases.
3) Given that the general blood test values and biochemical test values of the zen monks are excellent, it indicates that continuing a diet low in fats and cholesterol has low risks of causing health problems. Consequently, the diet of the zen monks can serve as a reference to those who need to lower their triglycerides and total cholesterol to standard levels.