The traditional Japanese diet is one of the healthiest in the world, consisting of a balance of vegetables, grains, and proteins. Rice is one of the most important staples, along with other grains such as barley and buckwheat. Fish and seafood are an important source of protein, while soy products like tofu provide essential vitamins and minerals. Fruits and vegetables also play an important role in providing antioxidants, phytochemicals, dietary fiber, carbohydrates, fats, proteins etc. Fermented foods like natto miso shoyu sake soy sauce mirin pickles umeboshi kimchi tsukemono tamari amazake etc are also consumed for their beneficial bacteria. Studies have shown that following this type of dietary pattern reduces risk factors for chronic diseases like obesity diabetes heart disease stroke hypertension certain types of cancers etc.