Obesity rates vary significantly across the globe, with some countries maintaining remarkably low levels of obesity due to dietary habits, lifestyle, and cultural factors. According to WorldAtlas, these are the 10 thinnest countries based on the percentage of their population classified as obese.
1. Viet Nam (2.1%)
Viet Nam has the lowest obesity rate in the world, with only 2.1% of its population classified as obese. The traditional diet rich in vegetables, lean meats, and seafood, along with an active lifestyle, contributes to this low rate.
2. Bangladesh (3.6%)
Bangladesh follows closely behind, with just 3.6% of its population being obese. A diet low in processed foods and high in fiber-rich grains and vegetables plays a key role in maintaining a lean population.
3. Timor-Leste (3.8%)
The small Southeast Asian nation of Timor-Leste has an obesity rate of only 3.8%. Limited access to processed food and a reliance on fresh, locally sourced ingredients contribute to this low rate.
4. India (3.9%)
India’s obesity rate stands at 3.9%, with traditional diets based on vegetables, legumes, and whole grains helping to keep obesity levels low, despite urban areas seeing an increase in processed food consumption.
5. Cambodia (3.9%)
Like other Southeast Asian countries, Cambodia maintains a low obesity rate of 3.9% due to its nutrient-rich, low-calorie traditional cuisine and active rural lifestyles.
6. Nepal (4.1%)
With an obesity rate of 4.1%, Nepalese diets emphasize whole grains, vegetables, and minimal processed foods, helping to keep obesity levels among the lowest in the world.
7. Japan (4.3%)
Japan’s portion control, seafood-rich diet, and emphasis on fresh ingredients have contributed to its remarkably low obesity rate of 4.3%, despite being a highly developed country.
8. Ethiopia (4.5%)
Ethiopia’s traditional diet, high in fiber and low in processed foods, helps maintain an obesity rate of just 4.5%. Economic factors and food accessibility also play a role.
9. South Korea (4.7%)
South Korea's diet, rich in fermented foods, seafood, and vegetables, helps keep obesity at only 4.7%. The nation also promotes an active lifestyle and portion control.
10. Eritrea (5%)
Eritrea rounds out the list with an obesity rate of 5%, with factors such as a high-vegetable diet and lower consumption of processed foods keeping the population lean.
Conclusion
Many of the world’s thinnest countries share common dietary and lifestyle factors, including traditional, plant-based diets, fresh food consumption, and active daily routines. While modernization is gradually increasing obesity rates in some regions, these nations continue to stand out for their low obesity levels and overall health-conscious lifestyles.
