My Swedish grandparents diet consisted of wild game meat, fish, everything pickled or salted lol, and root vegetables. Their own herbs grown in the backyard. A lot of fermented foods really. Lingonberry jam. Some strong cheeses. My grandpa is 94 and grandma is 86. They seemed to keep a lot of things from Swedish culture in terms of food, but of course they are in America so it's hard to fully replicate and they sort of adopted some different foods. I mean when they were kids they used to get off of school to go hunt moose haha. If you're sick have a little swedish glogg. Basically my grandparents taught me a lot of what this guy is talking about. Nature is a healer. Get out in nature, stay active, eat well, and we all love the winter. And caffeine. Lots of caffeine.
What about: if you live in Italy/France/Greece etc you eat mediterranean. If you live in Scandinavia you eat foods that are available there. If you live in Japan you eat fermented food. If you live in europe, you eat whats growing and living there. Yeah potatoes, yummie. Just eat fresh foods and no processed foods where ever you live. And you will be fine.
true. if you live in Frozen Russia you eat horse meat, etc. all people's were healthy enough before refened white flour/corn/wheat and sugar and chocolate and seed oils = junk foods came into their lives.
I've lived in Sweden for 6 years now, in the Stockholm area. Most of the Swedish population does live in one of the urban, and more southern regions (Stockholm, which is still considered 'south' by the northerners, is still more north than Malmo or Gothenburg). This idea of Swedes foraging for Nordic berries, eating sourdough rye based on starter from many generations in the family previous, eating game and lot's of herring, might be true for less than 10%, but it's a highly romanticized fantasy for everyone else. The Swedish food groups here are dairy (cows milk), wheat (white for the most part), more dairy, more wheat, red meat (mostly beef and pork), and potatoes. I'm only mildly joking about this. Swedes agree when I say this. Yes, you can buy salad greens at the markets, but most Swedes don't embrace a wide variety of vegetables. Moreover the majority of fruit and vegetables are imported (aside from apples, potatoes, some other root vegetables and salad greens), so their nutritional value is considerably less than fruit and veg you would find elsewhere in Europe. And that herring? Well, many Swedes do like the pickled herring found in jars, but it's generational or for the holidays. I don't know where that herring comes from because the Baltic Sea is so polluted (primarily by the Swedish dairy industry, followed by Russian and Polish industrial pollution) that doctors advise you don't eat Baltic caught fish more than once or twice a year. It is possible to get reindeer in some supermarkets 'in the South', but it's usually in the frozen section with only 1 or 2 options. What is true is that nature is very accessible every where in Sweden, and many people use public transportation - so it is a very active nation that embraces physical activity. OH - and we can't forget Lördagsgodis - which is 'candy Saturday'. Every supermarket has a wall (a giant wall) of pick and mix candy. Families go shopping for candy on Friday or Saturday, and then indulge on Saturday. It got so bad that dental associations got involved. But great air quality. The Swedes love the outdoors and the portions of food aren't as large as American portions.Saunas are popular too, and all of those things do contribute to health. There is also more social equality than in many countries, and there is an emphasis on work/life balance. These are also healthy factors. However the levels of loneliness are extremely high, alcoholism is a problem (liquor stores are still run by the government to try to keep the problem in check). No country is perfect.
Spot on! Where I live in Sweden, the average shopping basket is filled more with chips, cheese doodles, frozen pizza, Coke, cheap wieners, white bread, and those pick and mix candies than anything. It's really heart-breaking to see the young kids and teens becoming more and more obese.
A huge reason not mentioned is the social welfare and lack of corruption in these countries. Not many people fall through the cracks and there's a strong focus on cheap preventative healthcare. Also there's probably an arguemnt for the high level of governance and lack of corruption leading to a more calm, stress free life
Best diet is to eat seasonal and in moderation. Stop trying to optimize things and focus on enjoying life day to day. Your body will tell you what it needs, if you feel like eating pasta or steak , eat it !!!! but dont over do it. 😎😎😎
The increase in BMI in Sweden since 1980 can be quantified using available data from studies conducted by health organizations, though specific annual data is sometimes limited. However, general trends can be identified based on national health surveys. Average BMI in Sweden (1980-2020): 1980s: The average BMI for Swedish adults in the early 1980s was around 23.0-23.5, which falls within the normal weight category. Obesity rates were relatively low, with only about 5-6% of the population classified as obese. 1990s: By the mid-1990s, the average BMI had risen to around 24.0-24.5, with more individuals moving into the overweight category. Obesity rates increased to around 10-12%. 2000s: In the 2000s, the average BMI continued to rise, reaching around 25.0 by the end of the decade. Overweight and obesity had become more prevalent, with obesity rates approaching 14-15%. 2010s: By 2010, the average BMI in Sweden was approximately 25.1-25.3, firmly placing the population in the overweight category. Obesity rates were now around 16-17%. 2020s: In recent years (2020s), the average BMI has stabilized at around 25.3, with obesity rates slightly increasing to around 18% of the adult population. BMI and Obesity Rates (% of the Population): 1980s: Average BMI: 23.0-23.5 | Obesity: 5-6% 1990s: Average BMI: 24.0-24.5 | Obesity: 10-12% 2000s: Average BMI: 25.0 | Obesity: 14-15% 2010s: Average BMI: 25.1-25.3 | Obesity: 16-17% 2020s: Average BMI: 25.3 | Obesity: 18% What happened? 1. Dietary Changes: Increased Consumption of Processed Foods: Over the decades, there has been a marked increase in the consumption of processed foods high in sugar, fats, and salt. Ready-made meals, fast foods, and snacks have become more common, replacing traditional Swedish diets that were lower in processed ingredients. Higher Caloric Intake: Foods with high caloric density, such as sugary beverages, snacks, and high-fat meals, have become more accessible. These have contributed to an increase in daily calorie consumption, leading to weight gain over time. Shift from Traditional Diets: Historically, the Swedish diet was rich in whole grains, fish, and fresh vegetables, but globalization and changing food habits have introduced more Westernized diets, higher in refined sugars and saturated fats. 2. Sedentary Lifestyles: Decreased Physical Activity: As Sweden has become more urbanized, physical activity levels have decreased. Jobs have become more desk-oriented, and more time is spent in sedentary activities like watching TV, using computers, or sitting in cars. This has led to an imbalance between calorie intake and calorie expenditure. Increased Screen Time: The rise of smartphones, computers, and entertainment technology has led to increased screen time, reducing overall physical activity in both adults and children. 3. Urbanization and Technological Advances: Urban Living: As more Swedes moved into cities, lifestyles became more sedentary. People in urban areas are more likely to drive or use public transport, reducing opportunities for daily exercise such as walking or cycling. Convenience Culture: Technological advancements, including widespread car use, food delivery services, and automation, have made life more convenient but also more sedentary. People are walking and moving less in their day-to-day lives. 4. Socioeconomic Factors: Income and Food Accessibility: Processed and convenience foods, which are often cheaper and more readily available, are consumed more frequently, especially in lower-income households. This has contributed to weight gain across different socioeconomic groups. Health Inequality: While Sweden has a strong healthcare system, socioeconomic disparities still exist, and lower-income groups tend to have higher rates of obesity, partly due to differences in diet and access to health education. 5. Cultural Shifts: Changing Meal Patterns: There has been a shift away from structured, home-cooked meals to more frequent snacking and eating out. Fast food and takeout have become more common, increasing overall calorie intake. Portion Sizes: As in many Western countries, portion sizes in Sweden have gradually increased over time, leading to higher calorie consumption per meal.
there is a great factor in these countries that are totally related to longevity that is mental health in general. In these countries usually people live better, they do not have the amount of stress, excess labor time, have more time to enjoy life and other stuff. You can't take that from the equation, it is not just their diet. Not only that, the access to these things, the dificulty to have a diet like that in a country that have only trash available is another problem. This kind of approach makes it think there is nothing wrong in America and most western civilization
Writing from northern Norway, you'r guest did not make any mention about all the exercise all the snow (the wet snow is really heavy) we all have to shuffle away outside our houses & car-ports 3 to 4 days every week, early morning before we can walk or drive to work and AGAIN when when we arrive home at dinnertime. This is every winter December to late March..
He is giving you another healthy option of eating. It all comes down to the common denominator of no processed garbage. Whatever flavors and styles you like is up to you.
As a Dane living in Spain, here are a couple of traditional points. Fermented dairy in the north is very acid, compared to the south. In the north they use yougurt(like) products, cow based, in the south kefir (and where I live goatmilk due to the lack of soil). The Danes rush outside in February, when the first sunshine comes. In Spain they hide more, as the sun is hotter. But both places do definitely prioritise being outside. (Light aware is a good expression❤) Both places (used to) are proud of the quality agricultural products. (Denmark fighting the EU, when they feel they generalise and degrade the quality of eggs etc. There is also a point, I think, with the soil in Southern Scandinavia. It's packed with minerals. You don't have to dig deep to find sea shells and leftovers from the ice age. The nutrients are in their fruit, vegs, nuts and wild berries. In Spain the natural plants are different, but a bit up in the mountains, you can still find nuts and wild berries, but generally these products are now grown in greenhouses. Things are unfortunately changing.
It's no different than hardening off a plant. You either are, or you ain't. Plenty people talk about the method, but don't want to get of the sofa and implement it.
**Key Insights from Mediterranean vs. Scandinavian Diets: Longevity, Lifestyle, and Cultural Practices** 1. Dietary Similarities and Differences: - Both regions are known for longevity and good biomarkers. - High consumption of polyphenols and antioxidants, but from different sources: - Mediterranean: olive oil, wines, grapes - Scandinavia: wild berries - Fermented foods are common in both regions, but with regional variations. - Both consume lean meats and fish, with an emphasis on smaller fish species. 2. Lifestyle Factors: - Walking is prevalent in both regions, contributing to caloric deficits and improved digestion. - Scandinavian lifestyle incorporates more solitude and quiet time in nature. - Balance between community and solitude in both cultures may contribute to lower stress levels. 3. Sunlight and Seasonal Adaptations: - Scandinavians are more light-conscious due to extreme seasonal variations in daylight. - They prioritize outdoor time during limited daylight hours in winter. - Use of bright light lamps, saunas, and red light therapy to compensate for lack of natural light. 4. Cold Exposure and Exercise: - Scandinavian lifestyle naturally incorporates cold exposure, potentially benefiting immunity. - Nordic skiing remains popular, providing full-body exercise and cardiovascular benefits. - Combination of cold exposure and exercise may enhance overall health benefits. 5. Physical Characteristics and Fitness: - Scandinavians may have higher V02 max scores, particularly among cross-country skiers. - Nordic people tend to be more muscular and slightly higher in body fat compared to Mediterranean populations. 6. Resilience and Cultural Factors: - Scandinavian cultures, particularly Finnish, demonstrate high levels of resilience. - Harsh climate and historical factors have contributed to this resilience. - Military service and outdoor survival skills are still emphasized in some Scandinavian countries. 7. Macronutrient Profile: - Scandinavian diet is higher in fats and proteins compared to the Mediterranean diet. - Carbohydrates often come from tubers, berries, oats, and rye bread. - High consumption of butter and other animal fats. 8. Gut Health and Microbiome: - Both diets potentially contribute to good gut health through fermented foods and fiber intake. - Scandinavian diet may naturally include more resistant starch (e.g., cooled potatoes). - The specific impact on microbiome diversity is still unclear and debated among experts. 9. Seed Oils and Traditional Fats: - Historically, both regions used more traditional fats (butter, tallow) rather than processed seed oils. - Modern industrialization has increased the use of seed oils, though perhaps less than in the US. 10. Sauna Culture: - Finnish saunas are significantly hotter (180-212°F) compared to what's common in the US. - Sauna use in Finland involves conscious heat therapy with alternating hot and cold exposure. Conclusion: Both the Mediterranean and Scandinavian approaches to diet and lifestyle offer valuable insights into longevity and health. While they share some common elements like high polyphenol intake, emphasis on whole foods, and active lifestyles, they also have unique characteristics shaped by their respective environments and cultural histories. The Scandinavian approach seems to place more emphasis on resilience, cold adaptation, and intense physical activities, while the Mediterranean lifestyle may offer more consistent exposure to sunlight and a slightly different nutritional profile. Both cultures demonstrate the importance of connecting with nature, maintaining social bonds, and adapting to local environmental conditions for optimal health. As research continues, these traditional lifestyles may offer more clues to enhancing longevity and well-being in modern contexts.
bullshit, stop spreading it we know who vikings were in DNA in late periods others started copying their ways but it doesn't change origin and originators in Philippines gay is like occupation, every entertainment show in TV has their monopoly
It’s a series of things. But, it begins in the practices of the farmers themselves. Then, it’s a matter of how healthy the environment the food comes from is. Then, it’s how intelligent/smart the food regulations are. And, finally, it’s a matter of genetics, bacterial health, and viral health in the ecosystem that is your body. EVERYTHING matters.
The Nordic myth again. To most people, only these seem to exist, beneath of course Germany, although the best place to live is the Alpine arc. Statistics show that life expectancy is now highest for men in Switzerland, except in the very small, even richer Monaco and Andorra. Life span is something, more important is an active life. Not only in Switzerland, but also in other central western European countries, Austria, Slovenia, southern Germany all summer and winter sports are possible, except those which need the sea. I like very much swimming in outdoor pools, which is possible here from May till September. In winter, I go for cross-country skiing not only in the Alps, but also in the middle ranges Jura and Black Forest. Southern Europe is just a few hours away, important to get exposure to sunshine in winter. We can combine easily traditional Swiss with Italian and of course French food. And the fruits from Spain are cheap. Needless to say that those who do sports are among the fittest, not the least because mountains are hard to walk or cycle up.
No matter the diet and from which country as long as you don't eat refined sugar, processed food, fat/red meat in EXCESS like extreme keto diet that is good in short term but become fatal in long term, fast food, sodas, no drugs, no smoking, no excess alcohol and you'll be fine. Home cooking as much as possible is key and use olive oil daily instead of butter. People now get elderly cancers and diseases in their 30s and 40s because of this drastic diet changes since the early 2000s. The majority of people eat crap like instant food, fast food, Starbucks (refined sugar syrop), soda energy drinks etc etc. If people could focus on cooking and doing daily exercises instead of gaming or cellphoning for hours we would reduce significantly the mortality at a young age including diseases, obesity and cancers. The mediterranean diet have been proven since the 50s with SEVERAL human studies how effective it is on our health. Of course there's other diets around the world like Japan that are as good for health but there was no long term studies done like the mediterranean one. The American diet is the worst and it is the one that has influenced a lot of countries all over the globe like India, Mexico, England, France they all get fatter because of the American fast food franchises.
Imagine having your Great Ancestors Microbiome >>> then you nuked it with antibiotics. In my 40yrs of life, I've had several antibiotics. I can only imagine my prehistoric ancestor's microbiome now all been nuked.
I’m just at the beginning of this video, but already I’m surprised by the omissions: rye bread, crisp bread, even rolled rye as a cooked cereal. Only one brief mention of sourdough! As someone of half German ancestry, I believe that breads and crackers made of all rye have special benefits. You mention fermented milk with no mention of skyr!!!!!! That is weird! Skyr is widely available at least in the Chicago area. And you mention multiple types of wild berries without listing them! Lingonberries (despite the high sugar amount to make them palatable) are clearly special. I would really like to know what other berries are an important part of the Scandinavian diet. I hate cold weather and have no desire to partake of cold outdoor sports. But I am really interested in the food, because that is something I can do! An ethnic dinner at one of my churches years ago involved roast leg of pork (not smoked) and a delicious herring-veal salad (the ladies refused to share the recipe!) that didn’t taste fishy were the memorable parts of the meal. I’m not even listening to all of this because your inadequate treatment of diet leaves me cold.
Norwegian farmed salmon isnt as good as one can think. Theres been some questions regarding how the farming is handled. The feed that empties the seas of smaller fish, then theres the lice that affect the fish and the anti live chemicals used, then theres the issue with the waste that pollutes the waters etc. France used to have some pretty harsh guidlines regarding norwegian salmon consumption in children and pregnant women.. Fished natural salmon is so much better.
If we look at Nordic people before and now I think we can say the opposite compared to southern European people, they didnt do as well in war before and even today in sports they are generally underperforming in top sports, I personally think its mostly because of getting less sun/vitamine D since history, we see africans also performing exceptionally. When it comes to longevity they also dont perform that well, having simular longevity while having a lot more financial means so I would personally never see the Nordic diet as something to aim for nevertheless im sure they have some good habbits too that can be used just like most regions.
Actually, there is no Scandinavian country in the top 10 of countries with highest life expectancy. but that's ok, let make up some data and make an interesting video for the suckers. Although Norway, Sweden , the Netherlands do have higher life expectancies than most countries. We should be discussing the diets of Hong Kong, Japan and South Korea.
My family used to live for generations in North Poland and Lithuania. We share similar lifestyle and diets with Scandinavians. Lots of wild berries from the forest, raw honey, tons of mushrooms, sauerkraut, herrings in 10 styles, cod, narural fats: butter, lard. Reasonable amount of meat, almost everyday, but not too often, bc a bit expensive. Much less meat 50 years earlier. Meat with all fat, organ meats very popular. Tons of eggs from village. Fermented full fat dairy - everyday. Even today dairy alley in Polish store is the biggest one. Some lake fish in season. Rye bread, everyday, great quality. Warm veggie soup cooked on bones - everyday a must. Lots of potatoes (this is more central Europe origin, PL, Germany, Czechs). Lots of veggies - much more than Scandinavians, it comes from Italian connection through our Queen in middle ages. Anyway, lots of natural unprocessed or fermented foods. Most of families doing sausages themselves, fermenting cabbage, berries or mushrooms at home for the winter. Very natural lifestyle totally driven by seasons. Lots of local fruits in season - apples everyday, cherries, pears. Sun dried mushrooms in the winter for vit. D. Black tea daily instead of water, that's what my grandpas were drinking all day. Cooked dry fruit drinks for minerals. Fermented cambucha style drinks too. Plus walking 5 km everyday average
Im from sweden living in norway and i must say pepole eat cod or salmom and makrill , thats the smalest ones . And no ski is not king of winter sports , and only finns use sauna everyday , and day light min 6-9 hours in oslo , its only far in the north of northen countries that have darknes all winter , first video im not agreeing with the guest , bout still always interesting videos
you can't compare Scandinavians on Scandinavian diet with other people on Scandinavian diet 😂 you simply can't copy a system and expect completely different people will do the same on it... just look at Republic of South Africa..
