Mediterranean Diet

The term ‘Mediterranean Diet’ refers to dietary patterns that characterized certain Mediterranean regions early sixties, such as Crete, parts of the Greek mainland and

Southern Italy. Historically, these dietary patterns characterized by an abundant consumption of plant foods (vegetables, fruit, bread, pasta, legumes and nuts), olive oil as the primary source of fat and moderate quantities of fish, poultry, meat, dairy products, eggs and wine. The Mediterranean diet is low in saturated fatty acids and contains a high content of monounsaturated fatty acids, mainly from olive oil.

Mediterranean diet improves physical and mental well-being to advance quality of life

Researchers designed their study to examine the effect of the Mediterranean diet on 11,000 university students over a period of four years. Dietary intake of the participants was recorded at the beginning of the study, and self-perceived quality of life was measured after the four year monitoring period. In order to determine whether the Mediterranean diet was followed, consumption of vegetables, pulses, fruit, nuts, cereals and fish was rated positively. Consumption of excess meat, dairy products and alcohol was negatively valued, as they do not adhere to Mediterranean dietary standards.

The study team determined that those who align closely with the Mediterranean diet score higher on the quality of life questionnaire in terms of physical and mental well-being. Dr. Henriquez-Sanchez concluded “the Mediterranean diet is an important factor associated with better quality of life and can be considered as a healthy food model.” The Mediterranean diet prescribes three basic elements: lean protein sources (fish, lean meat and eggs, preferably organically raised and harvested), fruit and vegetables and unprocessed monounsaturated fats such as olive oil. Furthermore, it must include a daily intake of 1.5 to 2 liters of fresh water.

A wealth of scientific research over the past several years has shown that the Mediterranean diet and lifestyle provides significant benefits for conditions ranging from arthritis, allergies and asthma to Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes and cardiovascular health. Health-minded individuals fully comprehend that vibrant health is realized by avoiding sugar, sweets, cakes, pastries, hydrogenated fats and sweetened beverages. The Mediterranean diet constitutes an important tool to maintain health and attain optimal quality of life.

Mediterranean Diet Extends Lifespan by Twenty Percent

About the author:
John Phillip is a Health Researcher and Author who writes regularly on the cutting edge use of diet, lifestyle modifications and targeted supplementation to enhance and improve the quality and length of life. John is the author of ‘Your Healthy Weight Loss Plan’, a comprehensive EBook explaining how to use Diet, Exercise, Mind and Targeted Supplementation to achieve your weight loss goal. Visit My Optimal Health Resource to continue reading the latest health news updates, and to download your Free 48 page copy of ‘Your Healthy Weight Loss Plan’.