The Mediterranean diet is essentially inspired by the diet of Southern European countries and is believed to have plenty of benefits. The main emphasis of this diet is on olive oil, poultry, fish, plant foods, fresh fruits, grains, nuts, and beans. The healthful habits and the common food types of countries like Portugal, Italy, Greece, and Southern France have influenced the Mediterranean diet extensively. If you follow this diet regularly and properly, you can fight against certain heart diseases, cancers, and diabetes as well. The multiple health benefits of a Mediterranean diet are discussed below.
It helps to maintain a healthy heart
A Mediterranean diet involves eating more of fiber and cutting down on red meat. This can help you maintain healthy cholesterol levels and also reduce the risk of high blood pressure. Some studies have also proved that consuming a Mediterranean diet can help you reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. If you follow the Mediterranean diet, you will be asked to drink red wine instead of hard liquor, which in turn can prevent heart diseases and stroke. Many people feel that this is one of the most important health benefits of a Mediterranean diet.
It helps in reducing the risk of cancer
The Mediterranean food staples help to decrease the levels of inflammatory markers that are associated with cancerous tumor growths. Since cancer is spreading at a great pace all over the world, it is advised to follow the Mediterranean diet to reduce the risk of the same.
Helps in weight loss
One of the chief health benefits of a Mediterranean diet is that it helps you manage your weight. This diet encourages the intake of nutritious foods like healthy fats, veggies, whole grains, and fresh fruits. It also limits the intake of processed ingredients and added sugar. You end up having less of refined bread, red meat, and hard liquor. So, naturally, you get to lose excess weight and maintain a healthy body.
Protects against type 2 diabetes
A Mediterranean diet can also protect against type 2 diabetes. As you end up consuming more whole grains than refined food items, sugar is released slowly in your blood. This diet helps to improve the body’s ability to use insulin, thereby controlling blood sugar in the body. This diet is also linked to lower levels of blood sugar and hemoglobin A1C.
All in all, the Mediterranean diet not only helps to ensure weight loss, but also enhances heart health, promotes better blood sugar control, and reduces inflammation. Also, the foods included in this diet are satisfying and healthy. If you make a switch from your regular diet to this diet, you can live a healthier and longer life. Mental alertness, better memory, and enhanced problem-solving abilities are the other health benefits of the Mediterranean diet. This is because you get to consume balanced amounts of complex carbohydrates, lean proteins, essential vitamins and minerals, and healthy fats through this diet.
