#Japan #Big Data #FANCL #Shiga #Stress Survey

Understanding Stress Through FANCL's Big Data Survey

FANCL, a well-known health supplement company, has conducted a comprehensive study involving over 33,000 respondents aged 20 to 69. This analysis focuses on the correlations between stress levels, dietary habits, sleep quality, and exercise routines. The insights gathered are expected to help in supporting individuals' overall health, integrating nutrition with lifestyle factors such as sleep and physical activity.

Initiated in 1994, FANCL has continuously aimed to bolster health through its products. The increasing recognition of the importance of sleep and exercise in our daily lives has prompted the company to evolve into a complete health support entity. This shift emphasizes a holistic approach, aiming to address the various dimensions of health to better serve their customers.

The study is part of an ongoing series that wades into the depths of health trends by actively analyzing data collected from urine tests and lifestyle surveys. It's worth noting that a recent report by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare identified stress as a top health risk, with the proportion of people acknowledging it tripling over the last two decades, underscoring the urgency of utilizing this data for effective health strategies.

Key Findings of the Survey

1. Age and Stress Levels: The findings indicated that individuals in their 30s, both men and women, reported the highest levels of stress. Interestingly, 50% of women in their early 30s stated they felt irritable or easily angered.
2. Iron Levels: Women in their early 30s who reported experiencing stress had significantly lower iron levels compared to their counterparts who did not acknowledge feeling stressed.
3. Whole Grain Consumption: There is a notable correlation between high consumption of whole grains and lower levels of perceived stress. Participants who consumed whole grains at least once a week reported less irritability.
4. Added Sugars Impact: Individuals who reported consuming sugary beverages daily were more likely to report higher stress levels, highlighting the negative influence of diet on mental well-being.
5. Obesity Correlations: Obese participants (BMI over 25) reported higher stress levels compared to those within the normal BMI range, emphasizing how physical health can affect mental health.
6. Exercise Habits: Those who engaged in physical activity at least twice a week felt less stressed than those who did not exercise.
7. Sleep Duration: Adequate sleep (six hours or more) correlated with lower stress levels, suggesting the critical role of rest in mental health.

Conclusions and Recommendations

The survey has shed light on various factors contributing to stress, particularly among those in their 30s. The data suggests that to alleviate stress, it is crucial to focus on three main areas: diet, sleep, and exercise. Such an approach aligns well with FANCL’s commitment to enhancing overall well-being.

Expert Insights

Dr. Katsumi Shibata, an honorary professor at Shiga Prefectural University, underscores the importance of balancing iron intake and lifestyle habits as a means to combat stress. He notes that stress response is heavily reliant on cortisol production, which requires sufficient iron levels. Women in their 30s often face dietary challenges that may lead to iron deficiency, making it imperative to be conscious of iron-rich foods and whole-grain consumption.

Future Directions

FANCL aims to become a leader in total health support by continuously utilizing and analyzing over 50,000 responses from their nutritional surveys and urine test data by May 2024. The findings will inform product development and help create impactful health solutions tailored to their customers' needs.

Recommended Recipe for Stress Relief

To alleviate stress, try incorporating a nutrient-rich meal featuring FANCL’s germinated brown rice and iron-rich beef. The following recipe is designed to be simple yet nutritious, combining ingredients that support overall health.

Goya Taco Rice

Ingredients (Serves 2):

• - Germinated brown rice…2 servings
• - Ground beef…180g
• - Tomato ketchup…2 tbsp
• - Worcestershire sauce…1 tbsp
• - Soy sauce…1 tsp
• - Bitter melon (goya)…1/4 piece
• - Tomato…1/2 medium
• - Avocado…1/2
• - Cheese…to taste

Instructions:
1. Dice the tomato and avocado into bite-sized pieces.
2. Slice the goya, salt it, rinse with hot water, and drain.
3. Sauté the ground beef in a pan until browned, then add tomato ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce; cook until no liquid remains.
4. On a plate, layer the rice, cheese, the taco meat, goya, tomato, and avocado to serve.

This recipe not only provides a well-rounded meal but also integrates whole grains and iron-rich ingredients to support stress relief.

Background of the Study

The survey was conducted from January 27, 2020, to May 31, 2024, involving respondents who purchased FANCL’s Personal One supplement initially. The insights gleaned from this extensive data will continue to drive health initiatives and tailored solutions for better life quality across generations.