Food is deeply embedded into their culture and the classic Italian diet encompasses plenty of vegetables, olive oil, pasta, lean meats and fresh fish. This resulted in Italians having lower blood pressure and cholesterol than other developed nations.

Italy consistently ranks as one of the world's healthiest nations primarily due to its Mediterranean diet and active lifestyle. The Italian diet is centered around "real food"—minimally processed vegetables, fruits, legumes, and nuts. Italians are famous for their olive oil obsession; extra virgin olive oil is rich in oleic acid and oleocanthal, which act as natural anti-inflammatories. Research shows that only about 17% of the calories in the Italian diet come from ultra-processed foods, compared to nearly 60% in the United States. Additionally, the Italian lifestyle encourages daily physical activity; the "passeggiata" (leisurely evening stroll) is a cultural staple. Italy also boasts a high-performing universal healthcare system and a strong social fabric that prioritizes family and community connection, which significantly reduces stress and improves mental well-being. Even the "slow food" movement originated in Italy, emphasizing the importance of quality ingredients and communal dining, all of which contribute to the country's high life expectancy and low rates of obesity-related diseases.