Committed to living a healthy lifestyle? Then you may want to spend more time in Europe—or adopt their habits, anyway.
According to the 2019 Bloomberg Healthiest Country Index, six of the ten healthiest countries in the world are on the continent. In first place came Spain, which jumped from sixth in 2017. Spain is also, according to the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation, set to have the highest global life expectancy in 2040—showing that the Iberian nation is leading the way in both quality of life and longevity.
What put Spain on top? Life expectancy, yes, but also environmental factors like access to clean water and sanitation, as well as a lack of tobacco use and obesity. Their focus on a Mediterranean diet, which emphasizes local fruits, vegetables, oils, and fish, is also touted as a reason.
Following Spain is Italy—as it turns out, living la dolce vita is good for your mind, body, and soul. The island of Sardinia in Italy, which has almost 10 times more centenarians per capita than the United States, also follows a Mediterranean diet and encourages an active, outdoor lifestyle with its mild climate.
In third place is Iceland. Yes, you guessed it, they also have a fish-heavy diet (another staple is skyr, a cultured dairy product that resembles yogurt). Despite their cold climate, Iceland residents also live a life full of routine physical activities.
Japan came in fourth, the first Asian country to make the list. Rounding out the top ten were: Switzerland, Sweden, Australia, Singapore, Norway, and Israel. The United States ranked 35th.
At the end of the day, it looks like one should do like the Spaniards do. (After all, can’t hurt to have a bit more tapas in your life.)