Here are 10 countries where people tend to live the longest, along with the key lifestyle factors contributing to their longevity:
- Japan
Average Life Expectancy: 84.6 years
What They’re Doing Right:
Diet: A plant-based diet rich in fish, rice, vegetables, and green tea.
Physical Activity: High levels of daily physical activity, including walking and traditional practices like Tai Chi.
Social Connections: Strong community ties and family support.
Healthcare: Excellent healthcare system with a focus on preventive care.
- Switzerland
Average Life Expectancy: 83.4 years
What They’re Doing Right:
Diet: Balanced diet with a focus on fresh, local produce, and dairy.
Physical Activity: Outdoor activities such as hiking and skiing are popular.
Healthcare: High-quality healthcare with early diagnosis and treatment.
Mental Health: Stress reduction through regular rest and time in nature.
- Singapore
Average Life Expectancy: 83.1 years
What They’re Doing Right:
Diet: A healthy, balanced diet influenced by traditional Asian cuisine, including lots of vegetables and fish.
Healthcare: World-class healthcare system with an emphasis on preventative care.
Physical Activity: Active lifestyle encouraged through public spaces and urban design.
- Spain
Average Life Expectancy: 83.0 years
What They’re Doing Right:
Diet: The Mediterranean diet, rich in olive oil, vegetables, and seafood.
Social Life: Strong emphasis on family and community gatherings.
Relaxation: A slower-paced lifestyle, particularly in the afternoon with siestas and relaxed schedules.
- Australia
Average Life Expectancy: 82.9 years
What They’re Doing Right:
Diet: A balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and lean meats.
Physical Activity: High levels of physical activity, including outdoor sports and beach culture.
Healthcare: Universal healthcare system and strong public health policies.
- Iceland
Average Life Expectancy: 82.9 years
What They’re Doing Right:
Diet: A diet high in fish, lean meats, and dairy.
Physical Activity: Regular outdoor activities and a strong connection to nature.
Social Support: High levels of social support and a well-connected community.
- Italy
Average Life Expectancy: 82.8 years
What They’re Doing Right:
Diet: The Mediterranean diet, with a focus on fresh produce, olive oil, and moderate wine consumption.
Family Focus: A strong sense of family and social cohesion.
Physical Activity: Active lifestyle, especially in rural areas where walking and farming are common.
- Sweden
Average Life Expectancy: 82.8 years
What They’re Doing Right:
Healthcare: High-quality universal healthcare and a strong focus on public health.
Work-Life Balance: Generous parental leave and vacation policies that allow for better work-life balance.
Active Lifestyle: The Swedish emphasis on outdoor activities like cycling, hiking, and skiing.
- France
Average Life Expectancy: 82.5 years
What They’re Doing Right:
Diet: A diet rich in fresh produce, lean meats, and wine in moderation.
Social Connections: Strong emphasis on family and social gatherings.
Healthcare: Excellent healthcare system with a focus on prevention and early intervention.
- Canada
Average Life Expectancy: 82.3 years
What They’re Doing Right:
Healthcare: Universal healthcare system that provides high-quality care to all residents.
Physical Activity: High participation in outdoor sports like skiing, hiking, and cycling.
Diet: A balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and lean protein sources.
Common Themes:
- Diet: Many of these countries have diets rich in whole, fresh foods, with a focus on vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
- Physical Activity: Regular physical activity is a common factor, whether it’s walking, outdoor sports, or daily routines that encourage movement.
- Social Support: Strong family ties and social connections are key to mental health and longevity.
- Healthcare: Access to high-quality, preventive healthcare systems ensures early detection and treatment of health issues.
- Work-Life Balance: A lifestyle that prioritizes rest, relaxation, and time with family and community contributes to lower stress levels and better overall health.
These countries offer important lessons on how lifestyle, diet, and healthcare systems can contribute to a longer, healthier life.