In fact, scientists say the Mediterranean diet does a better job protecting the heart than regular physical activity

Mar 5, 2015 08:34 GMT  ·  By
The Mediterranean diet does a wonderful job protecting the heart, study finds
   The Mediterranean diet does a wonderful job protecting the heart, study finds

Folks who embrace a Mediterranean diet have high chances to enjoy a longer and healthier life than those who stick to hamburgers, pizza and the like, scientists with the American College of Cardiology argue in a new report.

This is because, as shown by the outcome of a recent investigation into the overall health condition of several thousand volunteers in Greece, the Mediterranean diet works wonders when it comes to reducing heart disease risk.

In fact, the American College of Cardiology researchers behind this study claim that, according to their findings, this diet does a better job protecting the heart and keeping diseases of the circulatory system at bay than regular physical exercise does.

How the Mediterranean diet benefits the heart

As part of their investigation into how the Mediterranean diet influences health and, in turn, lifespan, researchers monitored over 2,500 Greek volunteers between the ages of 18 and 89 for about a decade, i.e. since 2001 until 2012.

The focus was on their dietary habits, their lifestyle and their overall health condition throughout the duration of the study. It was discovered that, when compared to guys and gals who enjoyed unhealthy treats, those who adhered to the Mediterranean diet had a 47% lower heart disease risk.

Interestingly enough, the scientists say that even those who only adhered to this diet ever so slightly, meaning that they ate Mediterranean dishes merely every once in a while, had a 3% lower risk of being diagnosed with a potentially life-threatening heart disease.

Apart from being especially beneficial to the health of one's cardiovascular system, it appears that the Mediterranean diet can help manage diabetes and even help tackle hypertension and inflammation in the body. This too prolongs life expectancy.

“Our study shows that the Mediterranean diet is a beneficial intervention for all types of people - in both genders, in all age groups, and in both healthy people and those with health conditions,” said researcher Ekavi Georgousopoulou, as cited by Science Daily.

What's the deal with the Mediterranean diet anyway?

People who eat a Mediterranean diet consume a whole lot of fruits and vegetables, especially fresh ones. Grains, beans, buts and olive oil are included in the Mediterranean diet, as is fish. What's more, the occasional glass of red wine is also part of the menu.

Although not strictly off-limits, meats like dairy, poultry, beef, and pork are consumed in moderation. The same is true about alcoholic beverages other than red wine. Because it essentially promotes a healthy lifestyle, the Mediterranean diet can even help people get rid of unwanted weight.