The 10 Healthiest Countries in the World — And Why the US Isn’t One of Them

 When we think about health, many of us picture gyms, protein shakes, and strict diets. But around the world, some countries manage to stay healthier, live longer, and feel better — not because of trends, but because of lifestyle, culture, and daily habits. In this video, we’re counting down the Top 10 Healthiest Countries in the World — and looking at what they do differently from the United States. If you’re watching from New York or anywhere in the US, this might surprise you… and maybe even inspire you.

Let’s begin.

Number ten on our list is Canada. Canadians benefit from clean air, walkable cities, and a strong healthcare system. But more importantly, there’s a big focus on outdoor life. Hiking, cycling, skiing, and spending time in nature are part of everyday culture. Stress levels tend to be lower, and people value balance — not just work, work, work.

At number nine, we have the Netherlands. This country is famous for bicycles — and that’s not just a stereotype. In many Dutch cities, bikes outnumber cars. People ride to work, to school, to the store… everywhere. Daily movement is built into life, not treated as a workout session. Add in fresh foods and strong social support, and you get a recipe for long-term health.

Number eight is South Korea. The diet here is rich in vegetables, fermented foods, seafood, and low-fat dishes. Meals are often shared, which means smaller portions and slower eating. South Korea also has one of the highest life expectancies in the world, thanks to a mix of diet, healthcare access, and active city living.

Coming in at number seven is Sweden. Scandinavian countries are known for something called “lagom,” meaning “not too much, not too little.” Life is about balance — time with family, time outdoors, and time to rest. People walk a lot, spend weekends in nature, and enjoy simple, healthy meals. Stress management is seen as part of health — not a luxury.

Number six is Norway. Like Sweden, Norwegians are incredibly active. Hiking, skiing, fishing — it’s all normal daily life. Fresh fish, whole grains, and low-processed foods are common. Communities are safe, pollution is low, and people trust their social system. All of this supports both mental and physical well-being.

At number five we have Japan. Japan is one of the few countries where many people live past 90 — and still stay active. Meals are smaller, foods are lighter, and vegetables, rice, and fish dominate the plate. Walking is part of daily life, especially in cities. And elderly people remain socially connected, which plays a huge role in staying mentally sharp and emotionally healthy.

Number four is Switzerland. This country is famous for mountains, fresh air, and a very high quality of life. People walk a lot, eat high-quality natural foods, and live in clean, safe environments. Healthcare is excellent, but more importantly, lifestyle diseases like obesity are far less common than in many Western nations.

At number three, we have Iceland. Even though it’s cold, Icelanders love to be outdoors — swimming in geothermal pools, hiking volcanic landscapes, and staying constantly active. Diets include fresh fish and simple foods. And stress levels are much lower because communities are small and supportive. Happiness and health go hand-in-hand here.

Number two is Singapore. This tiny country has an incredibly efficient healthcare system, strict cleanliness standards, and strong public health policies. People walk a lot, public spaces are safe, and the population is highly health-aware. Education, preventive care, and lifestyle discipline all contribute to one of the highest life expectancies in the world.

And number one — the healthiest country in the world — is Spain. Yes, Spain! And no, it’s not just about sunshine. The Mediterranean diet is rich in olive oil, fresh vegetables, fruits, beans, whole grains, and seafood. Meals are social, not rushed. People walk everywhere. Afternoon rest is normal. And work-life balance is truly valued. Health here is not a task — it’s a lifestyle.

So… why isn’t the United States — or even New York — on this list?

It comes down to a few big factors. First, lifestyle. In many parts of the US, people sit more and move less. Long commutes, desk jobs, and reliance on cars reduce daily physical activity. Second, food culture. Ultra-processed foods, oversized portions, and sugar-heavy diets have become normal. Third, stress. Fast-paced, high-pressure work environments — especially in big cities — take a toll on both mental and physical health. And finally, healthcare access and cost make preventive care harder for many people.

But here’s the good news. Health isn’t only about where you live — it’s also about daily choices. Walking more. Eating fresh foods. Sleeping well. Spending time with family and friends. Reducing stress. Creating balance. The healthiest countries in the world don’t chase perfection — they simply build small, healthy habits into everyday life.

So tell me — which of these countries inspires you the most? And if you’re watching from New York or anywhere else in the world, what small healthy change would you love to start today? Let me know in the comments… and don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more inspiring world content.

Because sometimes, the biggest lesson we learn from other countries… is how to take better care of ourselves.