Bathing in Hot Water, Bathing in Japanese Style Hot Spring and Drinking Green Tea May Contribute to the Good Health Status of Japanese

Abstract

Among lots of lifestyle factors thought to be related to the Japanese health status, bathing in hot water, utilizing onsen (hot spring) facilities, and drinking green tea are very special in Japan. With this study we aimed to determine the contribution of these lifestyle factors to Japanese health condition estimated by self-rated health (SRH), sleep quality and rest, and stress level as the dependent variable. A cross-sectional questionnaire survey was conducted of 5,000 residents in Shizuoka prefecture aged≥20 years in 2011. Using unconditional logistic models, odds ratios (ORs) and their 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated for several factors that were considered to affect SRH. The lifestyle habits of bathing in hot water every day, utilizing onsen facilities often, and drinking green tea a lot showed a strong association with good SRH. Bathing in hot water was also related to lower perceived stress. In conclusion, the promotion of daily bathing in hot water, utilizing onsen facilities often, consuming a lot of green tea examined in this study may help to enhance people’s own perception of their general health. It is possible that these lifestyle habits may contribute to good health status of the Japanese.