Can Mediterranean Foods Increase Your Longevity?

Ever since I have come across the book “A Book of Mediterranean Food” written by Elizabeth David, I have developed an interest in the Mediterranean diet. The book beautifully describes the diets followed by the people of the Mediterranean regions like Greece, Italy, and France.

The Mediterranean dishes are widely gaining popularity for not only their palatability but loads of health benefits too. Many popular restaurants are adapting these cuisines in their menus to offer a richer and fulfilling experience to their guests.

A group of researchers investigated an Italian village, Acciaroli in the Mediterranean region. It was found that one out of every ten residents of those villages is aged above hundred.

This reason for their longevity is none other than the fact that their meal consists of domestic rabbits, chicken, home-grown fruits, vegetables and olive oil.

Loads of Anti-Oxidants

It is a well- known fact that peoples of the Mediterranean region live a longer and healthier. Their climate encourages the growth of fruits and vegetables that are rich in antioxidants. These antioxidants fight free radicals that damage our cells, thus reducing inflammations that are linked to so many chronic diseases such as cancer.

5 Mediterranean Dishes to Improve Your Health

Researchers have found that a Mediterranean diet reduces the chances of cancer and Alzheimer disease. The mystic land has a unique historical and cultural heritage which dates back to the era of Cleopatra and Julius Caesar. In 2017, the place enjoys enough attention due to its unique scenic and architectural beauty, but Mediterranean cuisine is the main center of attraction. Rarely, would you find a culinary journey which gives you a balance of taste and health. The delectable dishes keep multiple diseases at bay. Forget obesity, you would have a better cardio vascular health if you have some of these Mediterranean dishes. Plus, the punch of anti-oxidants and minerals boosts your immune system and stops you from falling ill frequently.

Below are 5 highly nutritious Mediterranean dishes which come with great health benefits:

Mediterranean Shrimp and Pasta: A truly mouthwatering delight which has high fiber content. It is close to 8 grams per serving. This dish will make you feel heavy for a long period of time. This dish also helps you burn 25 percent more calories in a day.

Greek Style Picnic Salad: The recipe is healthier than the average pasta salad. It packs a total of 4 grams of fiber in less than 300 calories. Sun dried tomatos, spinach and chick peas add to the nutritional value of the dish which is a true delight.

Mediterranean Pizza: Mediterranean Pizza is filled with the healthiest of vegetables, perfectly balanced in 150 Calories per slice. The thin crust is easy to digest and does not give you a very heavy feeling after consuming the pizza.

Grilled Vegetables: Grilled vegetables do not need an introduction. When mixed with the choicest of Mediterranean oils, it gives you a superior taste! Best served with grilled meat and fruit salad! It is an ideal accompaniment for a glass of sparkling wine.

Two Bean Greek Salad: The two bean Greek salad is one of the most popular Greek salads which packs a total of 300 calories in a single serve. It is a true delight for the connoisseurs of continental food.

If you are still thinking, then it is time to get up and start acting. Replace your high calorie weekend restaurant menu with a few Mediterranean dishes. It would give you better health outcomes.