The Mediterranean diet has been praised for decades as one of the healthiest in the world. For centuries, the inhabitants of Italy, Greece, France and other Mediterranean cultures had eaten a diet high in omega-3 fats, vegetables, whole grains, fish, fruits and red wine.
American researchers first began studying the Mediterranean diet in the 1970s, and study after study has shown that strictly following it leads to a myriad of health benefits, including lowered risk of heart disease and many types of cancer. As the research has been piling up for several decades now, there is little doubt that following the so-called Mediterranean diet is one of the healthiest ways to live. More superficially, the diet is also one of the best ways to maintain a healthy weight and youthful appearance.
The British Medical Journal has published a new study which once again highlights the benefits of the Mediterranean diet, this time focusing on it’s anti-aging properties. The conclusions of the research were dramatic: individuals who followed the diet were 9% less likely to die of heart disease and 13% less likely to develop Parkinson’s or Alzheimer’s disease. The study also showed a 6% reduction in the rate of cancer among adherents to the diet, as compared with the public in general.
Overall, the researchers were impressed, noting that the Mediterranean diet is a strong line of defense against many major diseases, as well as conditions associated with aging, such as Alzheimer’s and dementia.
The recent meta-study was conducted by Dr. Francesco Sofi of the University of Florence and Italy. The study examined decades of research, involving more than 1.5 million people, making it the largest dietary study of its kind in history.
Dr. Francesco’s team determined that following the Mediterranean diet and getting regular daily exercise are the most efficient ways of staying healthier longer, and preventing age-related illness. The study was also praised by the Alzheimer’s Society, and scores of anti-aging organizations around the world.
In the United States, the level of obesity and dietary-related illness is that an all-time high. Researchers point out the need for more public education about the Mediterranean diet and encourage doctors to discuss diet more frequently with patients, as it plays such a critical role in maintaining proper health.
The problem in the U. S., according to many experts, is that Americans have become complacent in their eating habits, and more sedentary in their lifestyle. In fact, the increasingly sedentary lifestyle in the US, combined with fast food eating habits has made America the country in the world with highest percentage of obesity — and the highest percentage of obesity related illnesses.
There is little doubt among experts that American attitudes about diet and exercise will have to change in order to reverse the trend toward a fatter and less healthy nation.
Mmmm its good to know that some of my favorite dinners are actually good for me! Thanks for posting this.
Comment by The Skincare Lady — October 2, 2008 @ 1:08 pm