The Secrets of Norwegian Longevity

The descendants of the Vikings were always known for good health. The average life expectancy in Norway is 81.8 years and is one of the highest in the world. And this is despite the fact that the weather conditions in this country are quite severe. So what is the Northerners’ secret?

The Norwegian diet

• Ocean fish

The nutritionists have been studying national cuisines, trying to find a relationship between diet and health. The Japanese and Mediterranean foods are unanimously considered healthy diets. However, the Norwegian diet is not any worse. This conclusion was reached by the president of the International Association for the the study of obesity, doctor Arne Astrup. Scandinavian food traditionally includes a lot of ocean fish. Cod, herring, and salmon are rich sources of Omega-3, as well as A, D, and E vitamins. This nutrient composition makes fish a real superfood, if eaten regularly, it boosts the immunity, adds to the strength of bones and teeth, makes the skin smooth and dense, and gives hair a shiny look.

• Chicken eggs

Another source of proteins for Scandinavians is chicken eggs. In Norway, eggs are eaten almost daily. Scandinavian countries cannot boast an abundance of local fruits, but Northerners often eat berries, such as huckleberry, fenberry, and cranberry. During a short Scandinavian summer, these berries are turning into a natural vitamin cocktail. Their anti-oxidant qualities help Norwegians stay good looking and active even in their older ages.

• Less sugar

Norwegians eat less sweets and cookies and always start their day with cereals, which are filling and good for digestion.

In addition, as with other Scandinavians, Norwegians choose local seasonal foods and prefer fresh and natural over frozen or pre-packaged ones.This diet helps not only to stay young, but stay slim. The research, conducted in 2013, has demonstrated that sticking to the Norwegian diet can help to lose 4.7 kilograms in one month.

Staying positive

• Holidays and celebrations 

The Scandinavian winter is long and cold. But instead of fretting over grey and short days, Norwegians have learned to love this time of the year. First of all, they don’t miss celebrating any winter holiday, starting from Christmas and ending with St. Valentine’s Day. They prepare for the celebrations in advance, picking gifts, decorating their houses, and throwing parties. And it doesn’t really matter that some of the holidays may look too commercial. A holiday is just an excuse for escape from grim winter days.

• Outdoor sports

Most Scandinavians’ childhood memories include skiing with the family. And every Norwegian keeps ice skates, a snowboard, or sleds somewhere in the closet.

• Winter coziness

Finally, Scandinavians highly appreciate the atmosphere of winter coziness. The Norwegian language even has a special word Koselig, which indicates that they keep Christmas spirit kept all winter long. Each autumn, Scandinavians replenish their reserves of aromatic cinnamon candles, mugs for hot cocoa, warm blankets, and seasonal house decorations. If the weather makes you stay at home, the best thing you can do is to make your residence a place of power, where you love every detail.

Keep stress low and exercise outside as much as you can, and you would make any doctor happy! would make any doctor happy!