13 Healthy Facts about The Mediterranean Diet

First published 2nd March 2020 Robin James

Find us on Facebook Follow us on Twitter

It’s long been touted as one of the healthiest parts of the world, but why? Well, the secret lies in the local, highly acclaimed Mediterranean diet, so isn’t it about time you took a closer look at exactly why it’s so special? Here’s all the facts you need to know to get started…

1. It’s a diet that could reduce aches and pains.

Regular followers of the Mediterranean diet report less chronic pain than any other diet.

2. It could also help to reduce inflammation.

The fresh fish, nuts, and beans that are staple parts of the diet have proven anti-inflammatory properties.

3. You could do wonders for your heart!

People who follow a Mediterranean diet are 47% less likely to develop heart disease.

4. It’s a big support to women, too.

A study of 5,000 women spanning nearly 25 years found that the diet halves your risk of uterine cancer.

5. Olive oil not only tastes good, it’s a healthy addition.

If you dress your food with olive oil you can reduce the risk of breast cancer by 68%.

6. It’s not a tricky diet to follow.

The U.S. public voted it the easiest healthy diet to follow.

7. Double the good stuff!

Mediterranean diet fans will tell you to leave the 5 fruit and veg a day and aim for 7-10 instead!

8. It’s great brain food, too.

The oils in nuts and olives will nourish your brain and help you maintain focus for longer.

9. It’s been around for a long time.

The diet started to be widely publicised in the 1950s by Ancel Keys who had noticed low levels of heart disease in the region.

10. Processed bits and pieces are no-nos.

Whole grains and avoiding processed foods are some of the key building blocks for the Mediterranean diet.

11. It’s a diet widely influenced by many cultures.

20 countries border the Mediterranean with each one adding its own tasty creations to the mix.

12. It might even help lower blood sugar.

The diet has been linked with low rates of type 2 diabetes.

13. Want to do your bit for the planet?

Mediterranean food has a lower carbon footprint than many primarily meat-based diets.
Only 10% of local crop varieties are still grown today, largely as a result of the move towards the mass marketing of the diet all around the world.