The Mediterranean diet has taken the top spot as the “best overall diet” ranking by US News & World Report’s most recent 2024 rankings. Check out some of its benefits
According to US News and World Report’s most recent 2024 rankings, the Mediterranean diet has triumphed for seven years running, taking the top spot as the “best overall diet.” The Mediterranean diet is a dietary pattern inspired by the traditional eating habits of people in countries such as Greece, Italy, and Spain. It involves plant-based elements like whole grains, beans, nuts, and unsaturated fats from extra-virgin olive oil. Seafood is one of the most common meals included in the Mediterranean diet. It is one of the healthiest diets due to its association with various health benefits. Let’s dive into the nutritional benefits and health advantages that we can obtain by pursuing this incredible diet.
Benefits Of Mediterranean Diet
- Reduced Cardiovascular Risk- Following the Mediterranean diet lowers your intake of refined sugars, breads, and processed foods. The diet includes the consumption of seafood and healthy oils that play a significant role in reducing the risk of heart disease.
- Reduce Women’s Risk of Stroke- The Mediterranean diet has been associated with a reduced risk of stroke in women. This dietary pattern combines several components that support women’s health, particularly concerning preventing strokes, and is modelled after the traditional diets of Mediterranean nations.
- Prevent Cognitive Decline and Alzheimer’s Disease- The Mediterranean diet is rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, olive oil, beans, and fish. This diet may slow cognitive decline and reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s due to its abundance of nutrition.
- Help in Weight Loss– The Mediterranean diet can help you lose weight because it involves eating a lot of plant-based foods and avoiding processed foods. It includes items that help you feel full for a longer time, and encourage making lasting changes to your lifestyle. This diet doesn’t require you to restrict yourself or constantly think about what you can’t eat.
- Improves Mood- Following the Mediterranean diet can help improve general well-being and lessen symptoms of depression over time. It also claims to reduce cortisol response to acute stress.
It’s crucial to remember that everyone reacts differently to different food patterns and that a variety of factors, such as genetics and lifestyle choices, can affect the overall benefits. Furthermore, the Mediterranean diet is a flexible and pleasurable way of eating rather than a rigid set of guidelines.