Being healthy is not just the absence of illness. It is about having good well-being physically, emotionally, and mentally. By reviewing the healthiest countries in the world, we get an insight into what a healthy population is.
In our current society, living a healthy life can be difficult due to a lot of environmental factors such as processed food, air pollution, flame retardants, and many more. But regardless of all these, there are still some countries that have managed to top the charts when it comes to being healthy.
Travellers can experience so many health benefits by visiting these countries, from great healthcare systems to cultural practices that support wellness. Read on to find out the ten healthiest countries in the world that you should visit.
10. The Netherlands – promotion of public health initiatives
The Netherlands is ranked one of the wealthiest countries in the world for prioritizing its health education, disease prevention, and raising awareness for the importance of regular medical screening.
The country has a strong stance against processed food, with most of its diet consisting of fresh vegetables, seasonal harvests, dairy, and lean meat, which contributes to the country’s better nutrition.
9. Switzerland – Universal healthcare system
Next on our list of healthiest countries in the world is Switzerland. Known for its universal healthcare system and high-quality medical services. Switzerland also has a global health index of 93.12, a remarkable feat for any nation.
Switzerland is a stunning country with beautiful landscapes that promote outdoor recreation and exercise, which contribute to the overall health and well-being of the population.
8. Sweden – initiatives on preventive care
The Swedish government has emphasized the importance of preventive care by providing its citizens with screening and vaccination centres, health education centres, and recreational facilities.
The country is known for its clean environment, affordable childcare, generous parental leaves and social welfare programs that help maintain its reputation as one of the healthiest countries in the world.
7. Iceland – an active lifestyle and healthy diet
Icelanders are known for their active lifestyle, thanks to the country’s topography. People from Iceland are very good at hiking, swimming, kayaking, and rock climbing.
Having an active lifestyle is not just a hobby for the people of Iceland but also a way to boost their health. It is no wonder that Icelanders grow up to be very big and strong compared to the average population in the world.
6. Norway – top-notch healthcare system
Coming at number six on our list of the healthiest countries in the world is Norway. Yes, the Nordic countries are very passionate about their health and well-being.
Norway is a country known for its comprehensive and universal healthcare system that’s made available to all its citizens. The government makes it easy for anyone to access healthcare regardless of their social/economic status.
5. Israel – advanced medical technologies
Israel’s commitment to advanced medical technologies puts it very close to the top of the list. The country boosts a prosperous biomedical industry, edge-cutting treatments, pharmaceuticals and medical devices.
4. Taiwan – environmental quality
The Taiwan government has spent millions of dollars to make sure the environment’s quality is good for its citizens. They also place fines and punishment on those who do anything to destroy the environment, from loitering to deforestation.
Taiwan also invests in health education, public healthcare, environmental policies and innovation to make sure it makes the country a paradise on earth for those who visit.
3. South Korea – healthy diet
With a life expectancy of 83 years and a global health index of 94.26, South Korea is one of the healthiest countries in the world. South Koreans are known for prioritising natural beauty, well-being, and healing.
The South Korean national dish is known to reduce the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. This dish is called Hansik, which is rich in vegetables, seafood, fermented food, processed food, and very little red meat.
2. Japan – lowest obesity rates
A good percentage of Japanese food is naturally rich in soy, vegetables, fish, seaweed, green tea, and fruits. They’re also low in added sugar, fat, and animal protein, making Japan one of the healthiest cuisines in the world.
Japan is also known for its active lifestyle. Many people engage in hiking, cycling, group exercises, and martial arts, which are not restricted to adults but open to people of all ages.
1. Singapore – healthy lifestyle programmes
Singapore provides a variety of healthy lifestyle programmes with only 14% of the population being smokers and the government supports a wide range of interventions for disadvantaged citizens.
The country is also home to world-class medical services and highly trained professionals. It is also a hotspot for advanced medical procedures such as cardiology, oncology, and organ transplants.
We advise you to add one or two of these countries to your bucket list, experience a healthy lifestyle, listen to the locals, and take back some tips on how to stay healthy, happy, and strong. Good luck!
READ MORE: The happiest countries in the world 2024
