The Mediterranean diet has been studied for its effect on preventing disease. The diet focuses on eating fruits, nuts, whole grains and vegetables and typically a bit of red wine. Fish, poultry and low consumption of red meat, combined with fatty acids from olives and olive oil provides beneficial monounsaturated fats for cholesterol health. According to MayoClinic.com, most scientific organizations recommend at least some components of a Mediterranean diet for preventing major diseases.
Reduced Mortality
The "Journal of the American College of Cardiology," in March 2011 published study findings that said the Mediterranean diet, combined with an active lifestyle, has multiple health benefits that extend life by preventing metabolic syndrome. Researchers from Harokopio University of Athens analyzed the health benefits of the diet in approximately a half a million subjects that included results from 50 separate studies. The diet was found to reduce the chances of dying from all causes.
Heart Health
The Mediterranean diet promotes heart health. Fruits, vegetables, nuts, fish and poultry and whole grains that are included in the diet help keep cholesterol levels normal because saturated fat is limited. Whole grain breads are consumed with olive oil rather than margarine and butter that contain trans fats and saturated fats. Fruits and vegetables in the Mediterranean diet keep atherosclerosis-promoting LDL cholesterol lower.
Brain Health
Columbia University Medical Center in New York researchers found that the Mediterranean diet could protect the brain from small brain infarcts, or lack of blood flow, that can lead to memory problems with aging. The findings that were published in February 2010 by the "American Academy of Neurology" suggested the diet could protect from Alzheimer's disease. The Mediterranean diet could also extend lives for those living with the disease by preventing progression of Alzheimer's disease.
Less Risk of Depression
The Mediterranean diet promotes mental health, according to research findings from University of Navarra, published in the October 2009 issue of the "Archives of General Psychiatry." Scientists conducting the study suggest healthy oils and omega-3 fatty acids could explain the anti-depressant effect of Mediterranean food. There was a 30-percent reduced risk of depressive symptoms among individuals who ate foods that are part of a Mediterranean diet. The study included 10,094 healthy Spanish participants.
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