Spain has risen to the top (it ranked sixth in the last Index), narrowly beating Italy to become the World’s healthiest country. Australia ranked at number seven.
To create the ranking, Bloomberg take into account several factors, including: life expectancy, tobacco use, access to clean water and sanitation and obesity rates. United Nations data show that Spain has the highest life expectancy at birth among all the countries ranked, with its 2040 forecast at almost 86 years.
Could Spain’s eating habits be behind their long lifespan?
The Mediterranean Diet, enjoyed in Spain, Italy and Greece is considered one of the healthiest diets in the world. The diet, which is low in added sugar and high in healthy fats, has been shown in numerous studies to promote heart health, aid weight loss and lower diabetes risk.
The Mediterranean lifestyle also involves regular physical activity, siestas, taking time over meals and sharing them with other people and enjoying life.
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Want to try the Mediterranean Diet? Here’s some of what’s on the menu:
Vegetables: tomatoes, onions, green salads, cucumbers, Brussels sprouts, carrots, corn, potatoes
Fruits: melons, peaches, figs, strawberries, pears, grapes, apples, bananas
Dairy: Greek yoghurt, cheese, yoghurt
Healthy fats: extra virgin olive oil, avocados, olives
Wholegrains: oats, brown rice, wholegrain bread and pasta
Legumes: chickpeas, beans, peas
Eating fish and seafood is recommended at least twice a week.
