TRY THE NORDIC WAY

New research is shining a light on the impressive health benefits of a lesser-known but nutritious diet.

For many years, the Mediterranean diet – a way of eating based on the traditional foods of Greece, Italy, Spain and France that focuses on fruits, vegetables, wholegrains, nuts and healthy fats – has long been touted as the star of nutritious eating.

Yet the Scandinavian sister of the Mediterranean diet, the Nordic diet, focuses on berries, vegetables, fish, wholegrains and rapeseed oil, and is now also in the spotlight. According to researchers at the University of Copenhagen, the Nordic diet has been shown to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol.

The scientists pinpointed unsaturated fatty acids from oils in the diet for playing “the most significant role” when it came to positive health effects.

Fancy trying the Nordic diet for yourself? The Nordic Nutrition Recommendations (based on the ingredients of Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland, Iceland and the Faroe Islands) recommends foods such as peas, beans, cabbage, apples, berries, nuts, wholegrains, fish and vegetables oils made from rapeseed, sunflower or flaxseed.

Salmon gravlax is a classic Scandinavian dish that’s rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein and B vitamins. For a recipe that offers a flavourful twist on this classic salmon dish that includes fresh dill and beetroot, visit mindfood.com/gravlax