In today’s world, where obesity rates continue to rise, particularly in developed nations, some countries still manage to maintain slim populations. However, being slim isn’t always a sign of good health.
In many of these countries, the low prevalence of obesity is less about conscious health choices and more about poverty, malnutrition, and limited access to adequate food.
According to WorldAtlas, global obesity rates vary greatly by country. This ranking highlights the ten nations with the lowest obesity rates and reveals the sometimes harsh realities behind those numbers.
1. Vietnam – 2.1% Obesity Rate
Vietnam tops the list as the country with the slimmest population. With just 2.1% of its 100 million people classified as obese, the nation benefits from a traditional diet filled with fresh vegetables, fish, and broth-based soups.
Vietnamese cuisine typically avoids processed foods, sugar-laden drinks, and heavy oils all of which contribute to weight gain in other parts of the world.
However, the low obesity rate is also linked to past economic struggles. Though poverty has decreased significantly (from 16.8% in 2010 to around 5% in 2020), undernutrition is still a concern in rural communities.
Fortunately, as Vietnam continues to develop economically, its food culture may help the population remain relatively healthy compared to global standards.
2. Bangladesh – 3.6% Obesity Rate
Coming in second is Bangladesh, where only 3.6% of the population is obese. But this statistic paints a complicated picture. Malnutrition remains a serious problem especially among women and children.
One in five adult women in Bangladesh is underweight, and around 36% of children under five experience stunted growth due to insufficient nutrition during early development.
Bangladesh’s challenges with food access, healthcare, and economic inequality contribute to these numbers.
Although the population may appear slim on paper, the reasons behind it are rooted more in hardship than in healthy living.
3. Timor-Leste (East Timor) – 3.8% Obesity Rate
Timor-Leste, also known as East Timor, has a 3.8% obesity rate and ranks among the poorest nations in the world.
With one of the lowest GDPs per capita, East Timor faces persistent food insecurity and widespread poverty.
Political instability and limited infrastructure make food distribution especially difficult. Many people survive on minimal calories per day, leading to high rates of underweight individuals.
This country’s slim population is largely the result of food scarcity rather than lifestyle choices.
4. India – 3.9% Obesity Rate
Despite its rich culinary traditions, India’s obesity rate stands at only 3.9%. But similar to other nations on this list, that statistic is complicated by malnutrition.
16.3% of Indians suffer from undernourishment, and millions are classified as underweight. The main issue isn’t a lack of food overall but rather poor food distribution and accessibility in rural areas.
Approximately 70% of rural Indian households depend on agriculture, and low crop yields can mean entire communities go hungry.
While obesity is rising in urban areas, especially among the middle and upper classes, rural India still faces the challenge of malnutrition and food insecurity.
5. Cambodia – 3.9% Obesity Rate
Tied with India is Cambodia, where 3.9% of the population is obese. The country has made progress in reducing poverty, but widespread undernutrition remains a concern.
Cambodians often suffer from deficiencies in iodine, zinc, and B vitamins, which are essential for healthy growth and immune function.
Most of the Cambodian diet is plant-based, but insufficient diversity in food sources means the population often lacks key nutrients. While slim figures are common, hidden hunger a form of malnutrition caused by micronutrient deficiency is prevalent.
6. Nepal – 4.1% Obesity Rate
In Nepal, 4.1% of residents are obese, but nearly a third live below the poverty line. The country’s mountainous terrain, limited infrastructure, and political instability make food production and distribution a challenge.
Nepalese people eat simple meals primarily consisting of lentils, rice, and vegetables but this often isn’t enough to meet caloric or nutritional needs.
Low agricultural output and poor storage systems contribute to food insecurity. The slim body types here are less about fitness trends and more about survival.
7. Japan – 4.3% Obesity Rate
Japan is one of only two developed nations on this list, and its slim population (4.3% obesity rate) can actually be attributed to healthy lifestyle choices.
The Japanese diet is based on portion control, vegetables, seafood, and fermented foods like miso and natto.
Meals are typically small and nutrient-dense, and there’s a strong cultural emphasis on maintaining a healthy weight.
Additionally, Japan has excellent public health policies, regular health checkups, and a strong walking culture.
Unlike many other countries on this list, Japan’s slimness is largely a reflection of positive health behaviors and a well-functioning healthcare system.
8. Ethiopia – 4.5% Obesity Rate
Ethiopia’s 4.5% obesity rate is not a sign of health – it reflects widespread poverty and food insecurity.
The country is frequently affected by droughts, which reduce agricultural productivity and result in severe food shortages.
Climate change has worsened these challenges, leading to frequent hunger crises. About 15.8% of Ethiopians are underweight, and malnutrition continues to affect both children and adults.
While efforts are underway to improve farming techniques and food distribution, the current situation remains fragile.
9. South Korea – 4.7% Obesity Rate
The second developed nation on this list, South Korea boasts an obesity rate of 4.7%, thanks to its low-fat, whole-food-based diet.
Korean cuisine focuses on vegetables, fermented foods, soups, and rice, with minimal consumption of processed snacks and sugary drinks.
The country also has a vibrant culture of health and beauty that promotes slim figures. While body image issues can sometimes be extreme, South Korea’s healthy diet and active urban lifestyle do contribute to its low obesity rates.
10. Eritrea – 5% Obesity Rate
Rounding out the list is Eritrea, where 5% of the population is obese. However, this number doesn’t reflect good health.
More than two-thirds of Eritreans live below the poverty line, and food insecurity is a widespread issue.
Years of conflict, drought, and political instability have disrupted agriculture and limited access to humanitarian aid.
Malnutrition is a major public health concern, with many citizens lacking adequate protein, vitamins, and minerals.
Alicia Richards