Overweight and Obesity Rates Soar in Nordic countries and Norway

More than half of the population in the Nordic countries and Norway are now overweight or obese. According to recent data, adults should engage in at least 2.5 to 5 hours of moderate-intensity physical activity each week. While the average Norwegian adult currently achieves 5.6 hours of activity, nearly three in ten individuals fail to meet the minimum recommended level.

(Image: Gorm Kallestad / NTB – Shows people exercising, emphasizing the importance of physical activity.)

Unge voksne leder skjermbruk i Norden

De yngste voksne, mellom 18 og 24 år, bruker mest tid på skjermbruk i fritiden sammenlignet med aldersgruppen 45-65 år. Ifølge nye tall bruker unge voksne i Norge hele 4,9 timer per dag på skjermer, noe som er høyest i Norden.

Kilde: Gorm Kallestad / NTB

the Rise of Cozy Games: Why We’re All Craving Digital Comfort

In a world that frequently enough feels overwhelming, it’s no surprise that a new trend is blossoming in the gaming world: cozy games. These aren’t your adrenaline-pumping, high-stakes adventures. Rather, they offer a digital sanctuary, a space for relaxation, creativity, and gentle engagement. But what exactly is a cozy game, and why are they becoming so popular?

At their core, cozy games prioritize emotional comfort over challenge. Think Animal Crossing, Stardew Valley, Spiritfarer, or Unpacking. They typically feature calming aesthetics – pastel colors,charming characters,and soothing soundtracks. Gameplay often revolves around low-pressure activities like farming, decorating, building relationships, or simply exploring peaceful environments. There’s rarely a “game over” screen, and the focus is on progress and self-expression rather than competition or combat.

The appeal of these games is multifaceted. For many,they offer a much-needed escape from the stresses of daily life. The pandemic undoubtedly played a role in their surge in popularity, as people sought comforting and predictable experiences during a time of uncertainty. But the trend extends beyond that.

Cozy games tap into a desire for simpler pleasures. They allow players to engage in creative pursuits without the pressure of perfection. Want to design the perfect farm layout? Go for it. Want to spend hours fishing without catching anything? That’s perfectly acceptable. This freedom is incredibly liberating, especially for players who may feel intimidated by more demanding genres.

Moreover, cozy games frequently enough emphasize community and connection. Many feature robust social elements, allowing players to visit each other’s worlds, trade items, and collaborate on projects. This sense of belonging can be particularly valuable in an increasingly isolated world.

The rise of cozy games isn’t just a fleeting trend. It represents a shift in what players are looking for in their gaming experiences. It’s a recognition that games can be more than just entertainment; they can be a source of comfort, creativity, and connection. As long as life remains stressful, the demand for these digital havens will likely continue to grow, proving that sometimes, the most rewarding gameplay is simply… cozy.

Norwegians are becoming increasingly sedentary, despite guidelines

A new report reveals that while Norwegians generally meet physical activity recommendations, a significant portion of the population isn’t getting enough exercise, and screen time is on the rise, particularly among young adults.

Norway has long been lauded for its outdoor lifestyle and high levels of physical activity. However, a recent study from the National Institute of Public Health indicates a concerning trend: increasing sedentary behavior and rising screen time.

The world Health Organization (WHO) recommends at least 2.5 to 5 hours of moderate-intensity physical activity per week for adults. Norwegians, on average, manage 5.6 hours, exceeding this guideline.However, the report highlights that three out of ten adults still fail to meet the minimum requirement.

Alongside this, screen time is increasing, especially among the younger generation. Young adults aged 18-24 in Norway spend an average of 4.9 hours per day using screens during their leisure time – the highest in the Nordic region. This raises concerns about the long-term health implications of a more sedentary lifestyle.

The study underscores the importance of continued efforts to promote physical activity and reduce screen time across all age groups to maintain the nation’s health and well-being. While Norway currently fares well compared to many countries,these emerging trends require attention to prevent a decline in public health.

Nordic Nations Face Growing health Concerns: Screen Time and Obesity on the Rise

A new report reveals concerning trends in health and behavior across the Nordic countries, with Norway showing particularly high rates of screen time among young adults. Individuals aged 18-24 in Norway average 4.9 hours of daily screen time – exceeding levels seen in Sweden, Denmark, Finland, and Iceland.

The findings, taken from the Nordic Monitoring report (NORMO 2025) launching Tuesday, paint a picture of a “sedentary and overweight Nordic population” according to Karen Ellemann, Secretary General of the Nordic Council of Ministers. She warns that citizens are spending “far too much time in front of screens” while together consuming “unhealthy and unsustainable food.”

Beyond excessive screen time, the report highlights a significant rise in overweight and obesity rates. Currently, 56% of adults and one in five children across the Nordics fall into these categories. In Norway specifically,52.5% of adults and 16% of children are classified as overweight or obese.

While the report acknowledges some positive developments, these concerning trends underscore the growing need for public health initiatives focused on promoting healthier lifestyles throughout the Nordic region.

Norwegians Spend Nearly 4 Hours a Day on Screens in Their Free Time

On average, Norwegian adults spend 3.7 hours scrolling on screens in their spare time every day. Three out of ten sit with the screen for more than four hours per day, according to a new survey conducted by Kantar for Helsedirektoratet (the Norwegian Directorate of health).

The survey reveals that screen time is particularly high among young adults aged 16-24,where the average daily usage reaches 5.2 hours. This group also shows the highest proportion of individuals exceeding four hours of screen time per day – nearly half.

“We see that many people spend a significant amount of time in front of screens, and this can have consequences for both physical and mental health,” says Helene Backer, senior advisor at the Directorate of Health.

The most common activities during screen time are watching TV and streaming services, followed by social media and browsing the internet.

The Directorate of Health emphasizes the importance of balancing screen time with other activities, such as physical exercise, social interaction, and hobbies. They recommend being mindful of screen usage and setting limits to prioritize well-being.

Photo: emilie Holtet / NTB

Declining Health Trends in Nordic Diets, Norway Shows Relative Strength

Across the Nordic region, a concerning trend is emerging: decreasing consumption of essential foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, coupled with a rise in the intake of sugary foods. Norway is not immune to this shift, but it fares comparatively better than its Nordic neighbors.Norwegians maintain a higher intake of wholemeal bread and fish,while consuming less meat and unhealthy processed foods.

This data highlights a broader public health challenge within the region, signaling a need for increased focus on promoting healthier dietary habits. While Norway demonstrates some resilience in specific areas, the overall direction points towards a less nutritious diet for Nordic populations.

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Nordic Diet Declines: Fruit, Vegetable, and Whole Grain Intake Falls

Nordic residents are consuming less fruit, vegetables, and whole grains, according to a new report. This shift away from the traditionally healthy Nordic diet raises concerns about long-term health outcomes in the region.