The 5 health benefits of the Mediterranean diet

There are many types of diets that you can decide to follow based on specific needs or simply on your personal tastes, although regardless of this the Mediterranean diet worldwide it is recognized as one of the most balanced and healthy eating models to follow.

Here’s how the Mediterranean diet improves health

This diet has its origins in coastal regions of the Mediterranean and involves the consumption of different types of food, in such a way as to allow your body to take in all the nutrients, varying the types of foods consumed. There have been numerous scientific studies that have highlighted the various benefits that can be gained from this style of eating.

• Reduced risk of cardiovascular disease: the Mediterranean diet helps prevent diseases such as heart attacks and strokes. First of all, this is possible thanks to the high intake of monounsaturated fatty acids which are present in extra virgin olive oil and which contribute to improving the lipid profile, reducing the levels of bad cholesterol, called LDL, and instead increasing those of good cholesterol, called HDL;

• Prevention of type 2 diabetes: it seems that the Mediterranean diet, again according to numerous studies, is rich in fibre helps slow down the absorption of carbohydrates and consequently keep blood sugar levels under control. Furthermore, the fact that with this diet you consume different foods rich in antioxidants helps to counteract oxidative stress and inflammation;

• Reduction of the risk of tumors: various anti-tumor properties are associated with fruit, vegetables, legumes and whole grains, given that they contain fibre, vitamins, bioactive compounds and minerals which help to counteract the onset of this problem. Furthermore, in the Mediterranean diet the omega-3s present in fish also make their contribution;

• Improved cognitive function: the Mediterranean diet may also be associated with a lower risk of developing neurodegenerative disorders and at the same time an improvement in cognitive function. This is possible above all thanks to the high intake of antioxidants which protect neurons, counteracting inflammation and oxidative stress, which appear to be determining factors regarding the onset of dementia. Furthermore, with the foods consumed in this diet it is also possible to improve the fluidity of the cell membranes and the correct functioning of the synapses and the transmission of nervous signals;

• Improvement of the quality of life of the elderly: furthermore, all the nutrients previously listed and their properties play a fundamental role in counteracting cellular aging and preserving various functions of the body’s systems. The monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats present in the Mediterranean diet have a protective action on the cardiovascular and metabolic system.

Therefore adopt this diet, associated with one healthy and active lifestylegives the possibility to best preserve one’s health and achieve excellent well-being on a psychophysical level.