Curious about the fittest countries in the world? This list dives into the top 15 nations that excel in health and fitness, based on various factors like life expectancy, obesity rates, and physical activity levels. Let’s explore what makes these countries stand out.
15. Italy
Italy has a life expectancy of 82.9 years, with 17.8% of adults being obese. Despite a high rate of smoking deaths at 15.3%, Italians benefit from a diet rich in vegetables, olive oil, and fish. Their active lifestyle, especially in rural areas, contributes to their overall fitness.
14. Canada
In Canada, the life expectancy is 82.7 years. However, 26.7% of adults are obese. Canadians have lower smoking-related deaths at 9.9%. The country’s vast outdoor spaces encourage activities like hiking and skiing, promoting a healthy lifestyle.
13. Austria
Austria enjoys a life expectancy of 81.6 years and has an obesity rate of 15.7%. Austrians engage in activities like skiing and hiking in the Alps. The low air pollution and clean environment contribute to their health.
12. Eritrea
Eritrea has a life expectancy of 66.5 years and an obesity rate of 4.9%. The country’s low alcohol consumption and active lifestyle help keep its population fit. The clean air also plays a role in maintaining respiratory health.
11. Burundi
Burundi’s life expectancy is 61.7 years, with only 5.28% of adults being obese. Their traditional diet, rich in plant-based foods, and low alcohol consumption support their fitness. Despite challenges, they maintain a healthy population.
10. South Korea
South Korea has a life expectancy of 83.7 years and an obesity rate of 7.2%. Their diet includes a lot of vegetables, fish, and fermented foods. South Koreans also have low smoking-related deaths, thanks to strict tobacco regulations.
9. Peru
Peru’s life expectancy is 72.4 years, with 28.1% of adults being obese. The country’s rich biodiversity encourages outdoor activities. Peruvians benefit from a diet high in grains, fruits, and vegetables.
8. Sweden
Sweden enjoys a life expectancy of 83 years, with 15.5% of adults being obese. Swedes have a low rate of diabetes at 5%. Their active lifestyle, including walking, cycling, and outdoor sports, keeps them fit.
7. Finland
Finland’s life expectancy is 82 years, and 21.9% of adults are obese. Their activities like hiking and cross-country skiing, along with a diet rich in whole grains and fish, contribute to their fitness. Finland also has low air pollution levels.
6. Norway
Norway’s life expectancy is 83.2 years, with 19.5% of adults being obese. Norwegians enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and skiing. Their diet is rich in fish and whole grains, promoting a healthy lifestyle.
5. France
France has a life expectancy of 82.5 years, with 10% of adults being obese. The French diet, known for its variety and moderation, helps maintain their health. Low smoking and respiratory disease rates also contribute to their fitness.
4. Switzerland
Switzerland enjoys a life expectancy of 84 years and has an obesity rate of 12.4%. The Swiss Alps encourage activities like hiking and skiing. A balanced diet and high-quality healthcare contribute to their overall fitness.
3. Singapore
Singapore’s life expectancy is 82.8 years, with 13.8% of adults being obese. Strict regulations on smoking and a culture of regular exercise help maintain their fitness. Singaporeans also have one of the lowest alcohol consumption rates.
2. Japan
Japan has the highest life expectancy at 84.8 years and an obesity rate of 5.63%. The Japanese diet, rich in fish, vegetables, and rice, and their active lifestyle contribute to their health. Low alcohol consumption and smoking rates also help.
1. Iceland
Iceland’s life expectancy is 82.7 years, with 21.7% of adults being obese. The clean air, active lifestyle, and diet rich in fish and dairy products contribute to their fitness. Icelanders benefit from a low rate of air pollution deaths.
Methodology
We looked at a study by Magical Nepal that analyzed global health data, considering 11 factors like life expectancy, obesity rates, smoking, and alcohol consumption. Each country received a score based on these factors, and the results were ranked accordingly.
Katy Willis is a writer, master herbalist, master gardener, and certified canine nutritionist who has been writing since 2002. She’s finds joy in learning new and interesting things, and finds history, science, and nature endlessly fascinating.
