The Mediterranean diet is an endless source of benefits for the body. It’s based on the intake of natural foods like fruits, vegetables, legumes, cereals, olive oil as source of fat, fish, and more moderate amounts of poultry, eggs and dairy. In fact according to Mayo Clinic we summarized the 10 benefits of this diet.
10 Benefits* of the Mediterranean Diet Are:
- Lowers risk of heart disease
- Lowers risk of diabetes
- Helps prevents hypertension
- Helps prevent fatty liver disease
- Contributes to a potentially longer life
- Improves cognitive function
- Reduces risk of cancer
- Reduces intake of preservatives and chemicals
- Increases consumption of antioxidants
- Reduces possibility of developing Parkinsons’ Disease
Following the Mediterranean diet is difficult, especially with today’s on-the-go lifestyle. We barely have time to prepare food, let alone spend the time to eat properly. But now it’s time to go back to basics and practice what works best.
Since it helps to reduce cholesterol levels and triglycerides, the Mediterranean diet prevents obesity and cardiovascular disease. In addition, due to its variety and low caloric content,when we follow this diet, we are less likely to become obese. If we combine the Mediterranean diet with regular exercise, we’ll be in top shape.
The Mediterranean diet is an ally against diabetes.
The Mediterranean diet is an ally against diabetes because it’s rich in complex carbohydrates and olive oil, thus regulating the glucose level in our blood. And remember, it’s also rich in antioxidants due to the amount of vitamins and polyphenols in its foods. Eating these foods will subsequently help prevent the premature aging of cells.
Olive oil has its own advantages. In addition to contributing to our general well-being, they regulate our body as they participate actively in the elimination of waste and toxins.
Even alcohol consumed in the Mediterranean diet is beneficial to the body. Used in moderation, it’s a good ally for preventing cardiovascular disease.
Olive Oil: the Main Ingredient in the Mediterranean Diet
On a final note, olive oil is actually the principal ingredient in Mediterranean cuisine. It contains monounsaturated fats, the consumption of which are good for maintaining a healthy heart. Eating foods rich in saturated fats, on the other hand, contributes to the development of heart disease. Many Mediterranean dishes are cooked with oil instead of butter. Salad dressings include olive oil as one of the main ingredients. And olive oil has a multitude of health benefits. Since Mediterranean diets use it in various ways, following it closely can only benefit the body. In fact, some research studies (WebMD) shown that olive oil and specifically, the Mediterranean diet, may help reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
*The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author, and they do not reflect in any way those of Abasto Media or HMC, Inc.