Researchers estimate that Mediterranean lifestyle habits improve the body’s well-being
The Mediterranean diet has become increasingly popular. And that’s no wonder, as it offers a wide variety of health benefits, promoting a better quality of life, increased nutrient intake, chronic disease prevention, and even aiding in weight loss. However, while the health benefits of the Mediterranean lifestyle have been studied, little research has been done on these habits outside their region of origin.
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However, this situation was corrected with the publication of a UK Biobank study which showed that the Mediterranean lifestyle is not only able to reduce the risk of all-cause mortality, but can also be easily transferred to other regions of the world, with all the advantages.
“The study demonstrates that it is possible for non-Mediterranean populations to adopt this lifestyle and benefit from it with locally available products and in their own cultural and social context”, underlines Dr. Caroline Reigada, nephrologist.
Data evaluated by the survey
To arrive at the benefits offered by the diet in other regions, the researchers analyzed the Lifestyle of over 110,000 people aged between 40 and 75 living in the UK according to three categories: intake of foods specific to the Mediterranean region, adoption of dietary habits, such as limiting salt consumption, and adherence to healthy practices, such as regularity of naps, physical activity and socialization. Each of these elements has received a score and the higher the score of an individual, the greater the adherence to the Mediterranean way of life.
Benefits of the Mediterranean lifestyle
After 9 years, when the researchers resumed the study to evaluate the health status of the participants, it was possible to observe an inverse relationship between adherence to the Mediterranean lifestyle and the risk of mortality. For example, participants with a higher score had a 29% lower risk of all-cause mortality and a 28% lower risk of cancer mortality than those with a lower score of adherence to the Mediterranean lifestyle.
And even adherence to just one of the categories mentioned above has already managed to lead to a reduction in the risk of mortality. Specifically the category composed of physical activity, rest and social habits was the main factor associated with the reduction of these risks, as well as being related to a more significant reduction in the risk of mortality from cardiovascular disease.
“This shows us that it is not necessary to change the whole lifestyle at once. Changing lifestyle habits gradually, with small steps, already has great benefits for the health of the body, as well as making this process much easier “, emphasizes the expert .
Importance of comprehensive health care
According to Dr Caroline Reigada, in addition to confirming the benefits of this type of lifestyle and showing its applicability in regions outside the Mediterranean, the study serves to reinforce the importance of comprehensive healthcare.
“Being healthy doesn’t just mean being free from disease. Even adopting a healthy lifestyle, as highlighted by the study, is part of this concept of health, since our daily habits have a great impact on the whole organism, not not only helping to prevent and treat diseases and reduce mortality, but also to improve the quality of life as a whole,” explains the doctor.
The expert points out that it is also important for healthcare professionals to be aware of patients’ habits. “Not only patients, but also doctors must be aware of this problem to see the patient globally and help him improve his Lifestyle to help prevent disease and maintain health,” concludes Dr. Caroline Reigada.
By Maria Claudia Amoroso
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
