The Mediterranean diet is one of the most comprehensive and healthiest diets out there. It is based on the consumption of natural and traditional foods from countries surrounding the Mediterranean Sea, such as Spain, Italy, Greece, or France. In this article, we'll tell you about the benefits of the Mediterranean diet for health and well-being.

What is the Mediterranean Diet?

The Mediterranean diet is not just a way of eating but also a lifestyle. It involves eating varied and balanced meals, respecting seasonal and local products, cooking simply, and enjoying food in good company.

The foods that characterize the Mediterranean diet are:

• Olive oil, as the main source of healthy fat.
• Fruits and vegetables, providing vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber.
• Whole grains, such as bread, pasta, or rice, providing complex carbohydrates and energy.
• Legumes, like chickpeas, lentils, or peas, rich in plant-based proteins and fiber.
• Nuts, such as almonds, walnuts, or pistachios, containing unsaturated fats, proteins, and minerals.
• Fish, especially oily fish like salmon, tuna, or sardines, containing omega-3 fatty acids and high-quality proteins.
• White meat, such as chicken or turkey, low in fat and high in protein.
• Eggs, a complete source of proteins and other essential nutrients.
• Dairy products, preferably skimmed or semi-skimmed, providing calcium and proteins.
• Herbs and spices, adding flavor to dishes without the need for salt or sugar.
• Red wine, in moderation (one glass per day), which has antioxidant and cardioprotective effects.

Foods that should be consumed less frequently or in small quantities include:

• Red and processed meat, such as pork, beef, or sausage, high in saturated fat and cholesterol.
• Sweets and refined products, like sugar, white flour, or pastries, providing empty calories and promoting overweight and diabetes.
• Sugary drinks, such as sodas or industrial juices, high in sugar and calories.

What are the benefits of the Mediterranean diet for health?

Numerous scientific studies have shown that following the Mediterranean diet has multiple health benefits. Some of them are:

• Prevents obesity and overweight. The Mediterranean diet helps maintain a healthy weight due to its low content of saturated fats and sugars and its high fiber and water content.
• Improves lipid profile and blood pressure. The Mediterranean diet reduces levels of bad cholesterol (LDL) and increases good cholesterol (HDL), preventing the formation of atheroma plaques in the arteries. It also decreases blood pressure, preventing hypertension and its complications.
• Protects the heart and brain. The Mediterranean diet reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases, such as heart attack or stroke, thanks to its anti-inflammatory, antithrombotic, and antioxidant effects. It also improves cognitive function and prevents mental decline associated with aging and diseases like Alzheimer's or Parkinson's.
• Prevents cancer. The Mediterranean diet has an anticancer effect, as it contains substances that inhibit the growth of tumor cells and promote their elimination. Some of the cancers that can be prevented with this diet are breast, prostate, colon, and stomach cancer.
• Regulates blood sugar and prevents diabetes. The Mediterranean diet improves insulin sensitivity and prevents spikes in blood glucose, preventing insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. It also helps better control diabetes in people who already have it.
• Strengthens the immune system and prevents infections. The Mediterranean diet reinforces the body's defenses and makes it more resistant to external aggressions, such as viruses, bacteria, or fungi. It also helps prevent autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, such as arthritis or psoriasis.
• Improves mood and emotional well-being. The Mediterranean diet promotes the production of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, which regulate mood, motivation, and pleasure. It also reduces stress and anxiety, improving quality of life and preventing depression.

At Fancy Restaurant, you'll find the best of the Mediterranean diet

Come for lunch or dinner at Fancy Restaurant, where you can enjoy all the benefits of the Mediterranean diet by indulging in tasty and healthy dishes in a peaceful atmosphere. Check out our menu, you'll find a wide variety of traditional dishes suitable for all tastes.