- There may be additional mental health advantages to the Mediterranean diet, according to recent research.
- The goal of the Mediterranean diet is balance; it promotes balanced portion levels of each.
- It is estimated that 25% of Australians will suffer from anxiety at some point in their lives.
There may be additional mental health advantages to the Mediterranean diet, according to recent research from the University of South Australia. Hailed as the holy grail of healthy eating, the diet consists of fresh fruit and vegetables, whole grains and seeds, nuts, legumes, and olive oil.
It provides a varied cuisine that satisfies nutritional requirements without losing taste or enjoyment. The goal of the Mediterranean diet is balance; instead of eliminating or overloading any one nutrient, it promotes balanced portion levels of each.
Mediterranean diet
The goal of the study was to address the growing global mental health epidemic that affects many individuals, including Australians. Approximately 301 million individuals worldwide suffer from anxiety, making it the most prevalent mental health issue.
It is estimated that 25% of Australians will suffer from anxiety at some point in their lives. The Mediterranean diet is recommended to lower the risk of chronic illnesses and healthfully promote aging.
The research team examined the relationship between food and stress and anxiety in 294 adult Australians over 60. Regardless of age, gender, BMI, or sleep habits, they concluded that there was a beneficial relationship between the participants’ mental health and the Mediterranean diet.
Fruit, nuts, legumes, and a modest intake of sugar-sweetened beverages (less than 250 milliliters per day) were among the diet components that participants felt improved their mental health.
Whether they were older, female, had a higher BMI, had more sleep or exercise, or any combination of these factors, older adults who followed a Mediterranean diet experienced less stress and anxiety. This implies that people can significantly reduce their stress and anxiety levels by making a relatively simple lifestyle adjustment.
