Traditional Mediterranean diets are among the healthiest in the world. Citing multiple recent studies, the American Heart Association notes that the 16 countries bordering the Mediterranean sea have relatively low rates of several common diseases and conditions. Traditional Mediterranean diets differ from a conventional American diet because they contain large quantities of fruits, vegetables and monounsaturated fat with little or no red meat. Physicians and nutritionists may recommend a Mediterranean diet as a complementary, holistic treatment for several diseases and conditions.
Cancer Prevention and Treatment
According to Mayo Clinic, the Mediterranean diet may help to prevent several forms of cancer. Practitioners may recommend a Mediterranean diet for people who are at risk of developing cancer because of smoking or family history. Mediterranean diets are similar to macrobiotic diets commonly prescribed for patients undergoing cancer treatment.
High Cholesterol
The Mayo Clinic notes that Mediterranean diets can prevent the buildup of LDL (bad) cholesterol. This, in turn, may help to reduce the incidence of other forms of heart disease. Omega-3 fats found in the Mediterranean diet can also reduce triglyceride levels.
Blood Vessel Health
In addition to supporting normal triglyceride levels, the National Institutes of Health note that these omega-3 monounsaturated essential fatty acids can prevent hypertension and hardening of the arteries.
Obesity
Mediterranean cultures have lower rates of obesity than North America, so some health care providers recommend a Mediterranean diet for weight loss; however, the American Heart Association notes that the Mediterranean diet is high in fat and may actually contribute to obesity in some cases.
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