Morten Lyhne Petersen
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What’s the secret to a long life?
Around the globe, several countries have achieved impressively high life expectancies through unique combinations of healthy diets, active lifestyles, and strong social bonds.
These nations benefit not only from excellent healthcare systems but also from cultural and environmental factors that promote overall well-being.
In this article, we take a closer look at the 15 countries with the highest life expectancy.
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From island communities with pristine nature to modern cities with advanced healthcare, the list showcases an inspiring variety of ways to live longer and healthier lives.
15. Guernsey
Life Expectancy: 83.27 years
Guernsey, a small island in the English Channel, offers a tranquil lifestyle with low crime rates and a robust healthcare system.
The combination of fresh sea air and nutritious, locally sourced food contributes to the population’s longevity.
14. Malta
Life Expectancy: 83.30 years
This Mediterranean island is known for its close-knit communities and a diet rich in fish, olive oil, and fresh vegetables.
Malta’s mild climate and strong healthcare infrastructure also play key roles in its residents’ impressive life expectancy.
13. Norway
Life Expectancy: 83.31 years
In Norway, a high-quality welfare system, clean natural surroundings, and a culture of outdoor activity help maintain a healthy population.
The country’s focus on equality and mental health also contributes to its citizens’ long lives.
12. France
Life Expectancy: 83.33 years
The French enjoy long lives thanks to their Mediterranean-inspired diet, moderate wine consumption, and emphasis on social interaction.
An advanced healthcare system further enhances their quality of life.
11. Réunion
Life Expectancy: 83.55 years
Réunion, a French island in the Indian Ocean, is renowned for its tropical environment and laid-back lifestyle.
Traditional, nutrient-rich dishes and access to high-quality healthcare foster a long life for its residents.
10. Spain
Life Expectancy: 83.67 years
Famous for its Mediterranean diet and active way of life, Spain also benefits from strong family ties and a warm climate.
These factors combine to give Spaniards one of the world’s highest life expectancies.
9. Italy
Life Expectancy: 83.72 years
Italians enjoy longevity thanks to a diet rich in fresh vegetables, olive oil, and whole grains.
A cultural focus on work-life balance promotes both physical and mental well-being.
8. Singapore
Life Expectancy: 83.74 years
Singapore excels in combining cutting-edge healthcare with an emphasis on prevention.
Clean urban planning and health-conscious living help its residents achieve remarkable longevity.
7. Australia
Life Expectancy: 83.92 years
Australia’s outdoor-centric culture, nutritious diet, and access to high-quality healthcare are key to its long life expectancy.
Low stress levels also contribute to the well-being of Australians.
6. Switzerland
Life Expectancy: 83.95 years
Switzerland boasts one of the world’s best healthcare systems and an abundance of fresh, locally sourced foods.
The stunning natural environment encourages regular physical activity among its citizens.
5. Andorra
Life Expectancy: 84.04 years
This small mountainous country between Spain and France offers clean air, a peaceful society, and an active lifestyle.
The combination of local cuisine and quality healthcare ensures Andorrans enjoy long lives.
4. French Polynesia
Life Expectancy: 84.07 years
The tropical islands of French Polynesia provide a relaxed lifestyle and a diet centered on fresh, seafood-based dishes.
Warm temperatures and strong social bonds contribute to the well-being of the population.
3. South Korea
Life Expectancy: 84.33 years
South Korea’s diet, rich in vegetables, fermented foods like kimchi, and seafood, along with access to modern healthcare, ensures a high life expectancy for its citizens.
2. Japan
Life Expectancy: 84.71 years
Japan is globally renowned for its high life expectancy, which is attributed to a balanced diet, regular exercise, and a strong culture of social cohesion.
Okinawa, in particular, is famous for its large population of centenarians.
1. Hong Kong
Life Expectancy: 85.51 years
Topping the list is Hong Kong, where an efficient healthcare system, healthy diet, and active lifestyle allow residents to live longer than anywhere else in the world.
