When it comes to geographic regions known for healthy habits, the Nordic countries — Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden — aren’t as well-known as say, the Mediterranean. But the eating patterns of the people who live in these regions have a lot of scientifically backed health benefits. Unlike the typical Western diet, Nordic diets tend to include plant-based foods, go heavy on seafood, and be sustainable. So it isn’t surprising that the diet based on these healthy eating patterns was ranked No. 10 in best diets overall this year in U.S. News & World Report, where it earned high marks for its tasty, healthy foods and its environmental friendliness. It also tied for the No. 5 spot in best diets for healthy eating. “The Nordic diet really is a lifestyle because it’s about more than just what you eat. It’s also about how you eat, how you shop, how you’re mindful of the environment and how you reduce your waste,” says Samantha Cassetty, RD, a registered dietitian based in New York City and the coauthor of Sugar Shock.
The Nordic diet (sometimes called the Scandinavian diet) is a way of eating that is based on the traditional dietary habits of people living in Nordic countries — Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden. The Nordic diet prioritizes whole foods over processed ones, is largely plant-based, and emphasizes eating locally, seasonally, and sustainably. Nutritional guidelines in these countries recommend low-fat dairy products and fish, and advise limiting processed and red meat, added sugar, salt, and alcohol, according to information published in Nutrients. [ 1 ]
