7 habits that make Spain the healthiest country in the world

In the Bloomberg’s Global Health Index For 2024, Spain surpassed Italy and became the healthiest country in the world. This Mediterranean country has an average life expectancy of 86 years old. Spain undoubtedly has a strong public healthcare system and access to preventive care, however, lifestyle and diet have equal contribution in the achievement. It isn’t a chase for health trends that makes Spain the healthiest country in the world. Instead, the people of this country live everyday habits in a way that nurtures health naturally. Here are seven reasons why Spain is one of the healthiest countries in the world.

Spanish cuisine revolves around extra virgin olive oil, a cornerstone of the traditional Mediterranean diet. Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats and polyphenols, compounds shown to protect heart health and reduce inflammation.
NIH study-review titled "Olive oil intake and risk of cardiovascular disease and mortality in the PREDIMED Study" is a pivotal piece of research that underscores the health benefits of olive oil consumption within the context of the Mediterranean diet. The study found that participants adhering to the Mediterranean diet supplemented with extra virgin olive oil experienced; a significant reduction in the incidence of major cardiovascular events, decrease in overall mortality rates, and improvement in lipid profiles and other cardiovascular risk factors.

A study published in ScienceDirect noted that slower-paced cultures, such as Spain’s, experience lower perceived stress and better overall wellbeing due to prioritizing social time and rest over constant productivity.
The Spanish rhythm of life is notably slower. Meals are unhurried, social, and often shared. The tradition of the siesta (a short midday rest) and long communal lunches fosters a balanced lifestyle that allows for recovery and reduced stress levels.

It’s not what Spaniards eat, but how they eat it. The tapas culture promotes variety, portion control, and social eating. According to research from the Harvard School of Public Health, eating in a relaxed, social environment encourages mindful consumption and improved metabolic outcomes. So, eating slowly and in company is what helps Spaniards prevent overeating and supports better digestion.

Spain’s climate provides abundant vitamin D, which is essential for bone health, immune function, and mood regulation. Daily exposure to sunlight and outdoor living are deeply embedded in the Spanish way of life.
​Studies have shown that people living in sunnier climates have lower rates of depression and better cardiovascular health due to improved vitamin D synthesis and more opportunities for outdoor physical activity

Connection is a health habit in Spain. From neighborhood gatherings to café meetups, social ties run deep, community is a defining element of Spanish culture. A large Spanish cohort study, called the SUN Project, found that participants with strong social relationships had a significantly lower risk of depression and early mortality.

As per The Lancet, social isolation has been linked to increased mortality risk. In contrast, Spain’s intergenerational living culture keeps older adults emotionally engaged and mentally active.
One of the longest running studies, conducted by Harvard, found that the greatest predictor of longevity is relationships. The finding concluded that participants who had strong and supportive bonds with family and friends, were healthier and more resilient, even in old age.

“Paseo” is a leisurely evening walk through town squares or along coastal promenades. As the sun sets, many Spaniards take a “paseo”. Regular walking is associated with a lot of health benefits. According to the World Health Organization, even a moderate pace walk reduces the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and premature death. The Paseo tradition not only promotes daily physical activity but also strengthens social ties and mental relaxation.

Spain’s health advantage isn’t about discipline or self-optimization, it’s about living in rhythm with life itself. A balanced diet, unhurried meals, time outdoors, and meaningful relationships all create a foundation of wellbeing that no supplement or trend can replace. In Spain, health isn’t a goal, but a way of living life.