NORMO 2025 Report: Icelanders Heaviest in Nordic Region with 70% Overweight or Obese

Iceland Leads Nordic Region in Overweight and Obesity Rates

A recently published NORMO 2025 report indicates that Icelanders are the heaviest residents among the Nordic countries. The comprehensive study, which monitors diet, activity levels, and lifestyle habits across Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Sweden, and Norway, found that an alarming 70% of Icelandic adults are classified as either overweight or obese. This figure stands significantly above the Nordic average of 56%.

The report, released on December 2, 2025, underscores a growing public health challenge in the island nation. In comparison, other Nordic countries like Denmark and Sweden reported lower rates, with 47% and 51% of adults being overweight or obese, respectively.

Lifestyle Habits Under Scrutiny

The NORMO 2025 findings delve into various lifestyle factors contributing to Iceland's high rates. While Icelanders maintain one of the highest fish intakes in the region, their consumption of fruit, vegetables, and whole grains is notably low. Conversely, the report highlights a high intake of sugary foods, with Icelanders consuming such items approximately eight times a week, the highest frequency among Nordic populations.

Energy drink consumption is also a significant concern, particularly among younger Icelanders, who average nearly five servings per week—more than double the Nordic average. This trend has been linked to potential issues such as sleep disruption, concentration problems, and poorer mental health.

Physical activity levels also present a stark contrast. Icelanders recorded the least time spent walking or cycling, averaging just 1.9 hours per week, compared to Sweden's five hours. Furthermore, one in three Icelandic children does not meet recommended activity levels, and 26% of children are overweight or obese, with more recent data suggesting 7.5% are obese, a rise from 5% over the past two decades.

Calls for Public Health Action

In response to these findings, the NORMO 2025 report advocates for stronger public health measures. These recommendations include limiting unhealthy food marketing, increasing access to physical activity opportunities, and revising food pricing structures to promote healthier choices.

Echoing these concerns, an Icelandic Health Task Force, established in 2021, concluded its mandate in February 2024 with a comprehensive strategy for public health improvement through 2034. The strategy emphasizes focusing on citizens aged 40 and younger, enhancing healthcare providers' understanding of obesity, and actively working to reduce fat stigma and discrimination within healthcare and society. The task force also stressed the importance of increasing access to treatment options for individuals with obesity.