A new study confirms that the so-called Mediterranean type diet really is healthier.

Mediterranean diet reduces the risk of cancer, heart disease and Alzheimers.

Adhering to a Mediterranean type diet significantly reduces the risk of major chronic conditions, such as cancer, heart disease, Alzheimers and Parkinson’s disease and increases overall life expectancy, a new study has shown.

Scientists at the University of Florence analysed the results of 12 previous studies, involving over 1.5 million people, and scored participants on how closely they had adhered to a Mediterranean diet. Their health was monitored for up to 18 years. Those who most rigidly stuck to a diet rich in fresh fruit, vegetables, fish, nuts, whole grains and cereals, olive oil and moderate amounts of red wine showed a :
  • 9% reduction in overall mortality
  • 9% reduction in death from heart disease
  • 6% reduction in death from all cancers
  • 13% reduction in Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s disease


The diet was also described by the researchers as being beneficial for people with health conditions such as raised blood pressure and being overweight.

A non-Mediterranean diet was one based on red and processed meats and dairy products.

Writing in the online version of the British Medical Journal, the scientists said: 'These results seem to be clinically relevant in terms of public health, particularly for reducing the risk of premature death in the general population.'


This content was created on Fri 12 September 2008

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