Embarking on the Sushi Every Day Challenge

My journey with sushi began in a rather unconventional manner, driven by a unique and perhaps obsessive colleague. As a junior partner to the senior partner, we spent a significant amount of our time in close proximity, often sharing our lunches together. My senior was well-known for his dedication to anything he enjoyed, whether it was iced green teas from Starbucks or freshly prepared sushi. He would indulge in up to four or five venti iced green teas daily, a habit that was impressive in its consistency and dedication.

Our office building housed a highly recommended sushi restaurant on the ground floor, which naturally became a focal point of our shared lunches. Although I didn't eat sushi as frequently as my senior, I found myself gravitating towards it when I was in the office and not traveling. Whenever we traveled together, which was quite often, we would indulge in sushi as a regular part of our routine. Over the course of two years, I became a regular sushi eater, consuming it 4 to 6 days per week.

The All-Day Sushi Habit

My senior partner was not the only sushi lover. I too developed a penchant for this Japanese delicacy. While I didn't eat sushi every single day, my consumption was substantial and frequent enough to be noticed. For two years, I indulged in sushi approximately 4 to 6 days per week, even when traveling. This habit became so ingrained that traveling without sushi was almost unthinkable for a time.

The Challenge of Sushi Consistency

Despite the regularity of my sushi intake, maintaining a steady supply proved challenging. The cost of eating sushi every day for an entire year would be prohibitively expensive. My budget and available resources weren't built to sustain such an extravagant diet without prompting a significant financial strain. However, my love for sushi was strong enough to keep me motivated; I hoped to push the limits of my commitment to this beloved dish.

Unseen Risks and Compromises

While I enjoyed sushi on a regular basis, the risks associated with consuming sushi daily were not to be overlooked. Consuming raw fish can pose health risks, especially with the potential for parasites and bacteria. Even the best and safest sushi might carry a small percentage of risk. Given the frequency with which I ate sushi, it was a testament to my good fortune that I didn't experience any health issues. It is comforting to know that there were regular safety precautions and guidelines in place for preparing and handling sushi to minimize these risks.

Navigating Cultural Boundaries

While my story highlights the personal commitment to sushi, it is also worth noting that some native populations have a more consistent and sustainable relationship with sushi. In Japan, where sushi is a traditional and integral part of the diet, individuals can more easily and safely incorporate it into their daily lives. The cultural context and dietary habits in Japan are vastly different from those in the Western world, where sushi is often seen as a delicacy and not a staple food.

Conclusion: A Journey of Commitment and Flexibility

For two years, I dedicated myself to sushi every day, navigating the challenges of maintaining such a dietary habit. While the cost and health risks posed significant barriers, my passion for the dish kept me committed. However, it is clear that a native of Japan would likely find a more balanced and sustainable approach to regular sushi consumption, with a deeper cultural understanding and familiarity with the benefits and risks.