What is The Mediterranean Diet? And why is so good for you? Here’s everything you need to know!
The Mediterranean diet is based on eating an abundance of plant-based foods including fruit, vegetables, legumes, wholegrains, nuts and seeds plus healthy fats, moderate dairy produce, lean animal protein (fish, eggs and poultry) and limited consumption of red meat. Oh yes, and an occasional glass of red wine, typically with meals.
Its focus on freshly prepared foods and wholegrains is linked with many health benefits and even claims to help you live longer and we’re all for that!
Sacla' was born in 1939, when Secondo and Piera Ercole set up a small business preparing fruit and vegetables in our hometown of Asti in a region up in the north west of Italy called Piedmont. Surrounded by the abundant herbs, vegetables and fruits that give Piedmont its name as 'Italy's garden', Secondo and Piera were determined to share the local bounty with the world. So, you can see, the Mediterranean diet, family and way of life has always been at the heart of everything that we do.
The Mediterranean diet is known for its many health benefits. Here are our top ten:
1. Reduce your risk of heart disease: The Mediterranean diet is associated with a lower risk of heart disease and lower levels of bad cholesterol.
2. Improve your brain health: Studies suggest that following a Mediterranean diet may help improve overall brain health.
3. Lower your risk of certain cancers: The diet's emphasis on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats has been linked to a reduced risk of cancer, including breast and colorectal cancer.
4. Helps to control your weight: The Mediterranean diet focuses on whole, nutrient-dense foods and limits processed foods and added sugars, making it helpful if you’re trying to lose weight.
5. Lower your risk of type 2 diabetes: The diet's emphasis on whole grains, legumes, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats such as extra virgin olive oil can help improve insulin sensitivity which can reduce your risk of Type 2 diabetes.
6. Live longer: Following a Mediterranean diet has been associated with increased life expectancy.
7. Lower inflammation: The diet's high intake of fruits, vegetables, nuts, and fish, along with its low intake of processed foods and refined sugars, can help reduce chronic inflammation in the body.
8. Healthier tummy: The diet's rich fibre content from fruits, vegetables, and whole grains supports a healthy gut microbiome, which is beneficial for overall health.
9. Feel happier: Some studies have shown that following a Mediterranean-style diet is associated with improved mental well-being.
10. You’ll be healthier: The combination of whole, unprocessed foods, healthy fats like olive oil, moderate consumption of lean proteins, and regular physical activity contributes to overall health and well-being.
Remember that a healthy lifestyle is not solely based on diet. It's important to combine a balanced eating plan with regular physical activity and other healthy habits for optimal well-being.