The Mediterranean diet is an eating plan based on the diet of cultures in the Mediterranean region. In these areas, people tend to be healthier and live longer than Americans. This caused health experts and the general public to take notice of this healthy diet. The Mediterranean diet is different from many diets because it does not deprive, and it includes large amounts of fat and grains. This diet recommends healthy fats, especially from seafood and olive oil, and whole grains.
Heart Health
One claimed benefit of the Mediterranean diet is that it improves heart health. The Mayo Clinic shows that rates of heart disease are lower in the Mediterranean region than in America, which is believed to be an effect of this diet. One reason listed by Mayo Clinic that this diet is good for the heart is that it is full of healthy vegetables, fruits and whole grains. Mayo Clinic states that these foods are low in fat and can help reduce cholesterol. Another heart-healthy benefit is that the Mediterranean diet uses healthy fats instead of saturated and trans fats. The monounsaturated, polyunsaturated and omega-3 fats used lower "bad" cholesterol, increase "good" cholesterol, and help blood vessels, all factors that improve the health of the heart. This diet includes only small quantities of red meat, which is better for the heart.
Weight Loss
The main healthy component of the Mediterranean diet is that it can be used as an effective diet for weight loss and to cut down on obesity. According to Mayo Clinic, the Mediterranean diet is well-balanced and healthy. It is low in unhealthy fat, high in low-fat vegetables and fruit, and high in whole grains that aid in weight loss. It also promotes chicken and seafood over red meat, and uses small quantities of dairy and sugars. Overall, it is a healthy diet that can aid weight loss and maintenance. This diet is also focused on a healthy way of losing weight slowly over time, instead of being a fad diet. It promotes exercise, a healthy component of any diet.
Diseases
More research is now being conducted on the Mediterranean diet. The Mayo Clinic found research showing there are indications this diet may improve Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, some types of cancer and diabetes. In reference to Alzheimer's disease, a study done at Columbia University found that the Mediterranean diet correlated with a reduced risk for contracting Alzheimer's disease. More research is needed on these claims.
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