BENEFITS OF THE MEDITERRANEAN DIET

A GOOD STRATEGY FOR LIFELONG HEALTH

Nowadays, nutrition plays an important role in both the lifestyles of individuals, as well as, in the medical field. From the prevention of many diseases to diet therapy, the Mediterranean diet is becoming more and more accepted by doctors and patients as a beneficial long-term change in diet. Nutritionists and medical professionals believe that a Mediterranean diet, rich in micro-nutrients, antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and fiber, is extremely beneficial to health and, as several studies have shown, can be a good strategy for lifelong health.

The Mediterranean diet encompasses more than a balanced and varied way of eating. It is also based on the principles of enjoyment of food and life, resulting in tremendous benefits in the overall quality of life. It is not a diet per se but encourages you to eat more of certain health-promoting foods. Furthermore, it doesn’t ban any specific food or ingredient, there is no fixed diet plan, and there is no tedious counting of calories.

The Mediterranean diet includes a simple plant-based cuisine, with the majority of each meal consisting of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, beans and seeds, a small amount of nuts, and a heavy emphasis on extra virgin olive oil. Fats other than olive oil and red meat are rarely consumed. Sugar and processed foods are reserved for special occasions. Consumption of healthy, oily fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids is recommended, while consumption of eggs, cheese, yogurt, and poultry is reduced to smaller amounts.

All of these foods, along with moderate amounts of wine

(an occasional glass of red wine is an acceptable part of the diet), can help you live longer and prevent chronic diseases like cardiovascular disease and diabetes.

The Mediterranean diet goes beyond cooking. It's a healthy lifestyle that includes making time for and enjoying your daily meals. Eating more slowly and enjoying many small portions, as is common practice in the Mediterranean, also fills you up faster. And people who follow the Mediterranean principles report that they tend to be more active.