13 February 2019

The Mediterranean diet - The Best Diet

As the Mediterranean diet was ranked #1 in the "Best Diets Overall" category by U.S. News & World Report, many would like to try it for their daily meal.

In fact, the Mediterranean diet is a way of eating based on the foods and recipes most often enjoyed in countries along the Mediterranean sea including Italy. And according to the Global Health Index, Italy is home to the healthiest people in the world—a fact that is primarily attributed to diet. The Mediterranean diet is considered the healthiest diet in the world because of its emphasis on fresh, nutritious real foods that are packed with vitamins, minerals, healthy fats (including heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids) and antioxidant compounds that all add up to significant health benefits. 

The Mediterranean diet focuses on plant-based foods like fresh fruits and veggies, whole grains, legumes, nuts and seeds. It replaces butter or margarine with extra virgin olive oil, which is rich in omega-9 fatty acids and uses more herbs and spices and rely less on salt for flavor. 

The Mediterranean diet also incorporates dairy in moderation, including cheese and yogurt— especially Greek yogurt, which is higher in protein and probiotics than most other types of yogurt. 

Moreover, sitting down to enjoy a delicious, healthy meal with friends and family is a big part of the Mediterranean lifestyle and this is a great way to strengthen our relationships which affect our health.

Numerous studies associate the Mediterranean diet with heart health. The research shows that using olive oil may play a significant role in this aspect.

Studies also reported that it may have a more positive impact on weight compared to other types of diets. One of those studies involving 322 individuals demonstrated more weight loss for participants on a calorie-restricted Mediterranean diet than those on calorie-restricted low-fat diets or unrestricted low-carb diets. 

Also at the end of a 2½-year study involving 180 people with metabolic health concerns, significant improvements were noted among participants on a Mediterranean diet. 

Moreover, the cognitive-supporting benefits of essential fatty acids found in fish, a staple protein of the Mediterranean diet, have long been linked to optimal brain health.

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