EON

A study recently published by the BMJ, the British Medical Journal, shows that following the Mediterranean Diet can lead to a longer healthier life.

The diet is primarily comprised of fresh fruit and vegetables, nuts, olive oil, and legumes.

A moderate amount of alcohol, specifically wine, and only eating small portions of meat are also noted to be contributing factors in the diet. The study also shows that cereals, seafood, and low dairy intake does not appear to increase longevity. Protecting the brain from degeneration, reducing the chance of developing heart disease, and lowering the chances of developing cancer are some positive side-effects of the diet that were found in an earlier research.

23,349 healthy men and women who had not previously been diagnosed with heart disease, cancer, or diabetes were part of this study. They were followed for a period of 8 and 1/2 years, during which time their food intake was monitored to see how closely the Mediterranean diet was adhered to. The study concluded in June of 2008, and in general those who most closely followed the diet were found to have lived longer and were healthier.

So for those who want to live longer, be healthier, or lose weight might be wise to consider the Mediterranean diet as a perfect way to do just that. If it helps, think of it as a lifestyle change not a diet.