The Bloomberg Global Health Index is a study that ranks 163 countries based on variables such as life expectancy, environmental factors, and health risks including malnutrition, high blood pressure, and tobacco use. Here are the healthiest countries to visit in 2022.
10. Israel
Israel has a diet rich in vegetables, fish and unsaturated fats, which is clearly worth it. According to a study by The Lancet medical journal, the country has the lowest number of diet-related deaths (high cholesterol, type 2 diabetes, etc.) in the entire world. Even more impressive? Israeli diets actually improve with age, with adults in their 50s and 60s eating the healthiest foods.
9. Norway
As if we needed any more proof that Scandinavia tops in the health department, Norway made its debut on the list thanks to clean air and water, high life expectancies (83 years), and low homicide rates (0.4%, compared to the world average of 3.7). We suspect the country's jaw-dropping landscapes might make life a little better, too.
8. Singapore
It may be better known for its food scene than its workout classes, but Singapore is one of the healthiest countries in Asia. People here seem to balance their love of street vendor food with active lifestyles; in fact, the government gave out Fitbits, and smartwatches, for free to its citizens in 2019.
7. Australia
One look at the beaches and these Instagram instant breakfasts, and it's easy to see why so many Australian citizens are healthy and happy. Locally sourced food isn't a trend, it's a way of life, as is getting outdoors.
6. Sweden
Eating a diet low in carbohydrates and high in the right kind of fats, Swedes rank second among Nordic countries in terms of life expectancy (82 years, closely following Norway's 83 years). According to the Culture Trip site, 50% of Swedes enjoy long daily walks, and nearly 30% of people living in cities regularly cycle to and from work.
5. Switzerland
In addition to having what many call the best health care system in the world, the Swiss also have some of the highest life expectancies (84 years). Other key factors include clean water, low crime rates, and a high work-life balance.
4. Japan
Thanks to a combination of exercise and diet, Japan has the world's oldest population: Scientists say a third of Japan's population is over 65, and Okinawa prefecture reportedly has the world's largest population of centenarians. The Okinawan practice of Hara Hachi bu (eating until you are 80% full) has also been shown to promote longevity and reduce the prevalence of disease.
3. Iceland
Much has been written about the Northern Lights and Nordic cuisine, and it turns out that both helped push Iceland to the top of this list. The country's citizens are active and hobbyists, and a diet largely of fresh seafood and free-range meat helps keep life expectancies in the 80s for both men and women.
2. Italy
Children born in Italy can expect to live into their eighties. Even in the land of pizza and pasta, most citizens lead active lifestyles and stick to diets rich in vegetables and olive oil, leading to better cholesterol and overall well-being.
1. Spain
Spain is officially the healthiest country in the world. Citizens emphasize freshness and locality when it comes to cooking, with diets centered around olive oil, fresh vegetables, lean meats, and red wine. (Spaniards also eat less fast food than other European countries aside from Italy.) When it comes to health, the value of a good nap cannot be discounted either.
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