Since the 1960’s, the medical community has looked to the Mediterranean diet as the linchpin to good health. Along with enjoying the gorgeous weather that is located near the Mediterranean Sea, the people who live in Greece understand how to eat.
What is the Mediterranean Diet?
The Mediterranean diet, which focuses on fruits and vegetables, healthy fats, nuts, fish, and beans, is touted as one of the best in the world. By lowering red meat intake and raising the amount of vegetables, healthy fats, seeds and nuts, partaking in the Mediterranean diet will lead you to a healthier lifestyle.
What are the health benefits for those who follow the Mediterranean diet?
- Lowers cholesterol
- Improves cardiovascular disease
- Helps with rheumatoid arthritis
- Improves weight loss attempts
- Wards off cognitive problems
What impact does the Mediterranean Diet have on cognitive health?
A recent study out of Chicago found that the Mediterranean diet had a more profound effect on people’s cognitive acuity than originally thought. Scientists now believe that the health benefits of a Mediterranean diet include faster metabolism, stronger bones, increased strength, and even cognitive benefits.
Puja Agarwal, PhD, a nutritional epidemiologist, said “The more we can incorporate green leafy vegetables, other vegetables, berries, olive oil, and fish into our diets, the better it is for our aging brains and bodies. Other studies show that red and processed meat, fried food and low whole grains intake are associated with higher inflammation and faster cognitive decline in older ages.”
In order for people to make room for the healthy foods like fish and vegetables, they need to be willing to get rid of the processed foods that are laden with sugar. And now there is an even more important reason to do so. With this report about cognitive decline being caused by red meat, as well as fried and processed foods, people can change the way their brains work in the future just by eating more leafy greens.
