Should You Go Plant-Forward? 7 Awesome Benefits of the Mediterranean Diet
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BY MADELEINE INIGUEZ
The Mediterranean Diet is all about embracing vibrant, plant-based foods—fruits, veggies, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and legumes—while enjoying healthy fats like olive oil and lean proteins. It’s inspired by the healthy, delicious eating habits of countries around the Mediterranean Sea (think Greece, Italy, Spain) and it’s as good for your taste buds as it is for your body!
Here are 7 exciting benefits of going plant-forward with the Mediterranean diet:
Your Heart Will Love It — With all those healthy fats from olive oil, nuts, and seeds, this diet can help lower bad cholesterol and keep your heart in tip-top shape. It’s like a workout for your heart—without breaking a sweat!
Brain Power Boost — Full of antioxidants and healthy fats, the Mediterranean diet can help keep your brain sharp. It might even protect you against memory problems as you age. So, you can stay smart and enjoy your meals!
Easier Weight Control — By focusing on whole foods that fill you up, like veggies, grains, and legumes, you’re naturally cutting out unhealthy fats and processed sugars. The result? It’s easier to stay at a healthy weight, without even thinking about it!
Happy Digestion — With all that fiber from fruits, veggies, and whole grains, your digestive system will thank you! It helps keep things moving and keeps you feeling light and energized.
Fight Inflammation — The Mediterranean diet is packed with foods that help reduce inflammation, like leafy greens, berries, and omega-3-rich fish. Less inflammation means a healthier body overall—plus, you’ll feel better too!
Keep Diabetes at Bay — Thanks to the balance of healthy foods, including whole grains and legumes, your blood sugar levels stay steady. This helps lower your risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Live Longer, Feel Awesome — People who follow the Mediterranean diet live longer and feel better. It’s all about nourishing your body with nutrient-dense foods, staying active, and enjoying meals with friends and family—what could be better than that?
Madeleine Iniguez is associate editor at The Whole Earth Digest, a blog dedicated to healthy smiles, healthy bodies, and healthy living. Email her at hello@drcajee.com.
DID YOU KNOW…? The Mediterranean diet is linked to living longer! People in Mediterranean countries tend to have some of the longest life expectancies, thanks to their healthy food choices and active, fun lifestyles that keep them feeling great.
DID YOU KNOW…? Olive oil isn’t just for cooking—it was actually used by ancient Greek athletes to give them extra energy before big games. They’d even rub it on their bodies, like a secret power boost!
