The need for exercise has been established. Now, what is ‘eating right’? A study lasting 10 years and included 2,339 people from 11 European countries has shown that a Mediterranean-style diet along with a moderate intake of alcohol is beneficial to health. Older people consuming a Mediterranean diet had a 23 percent reduction in overall deaths during a ten (10) year period.
Furthermore, those following the Mediterranean diet and engaged in physical exercise and consumed moderate amounts of alcohol – mostly wine – and did not smoke, showed a 65 percent reduction in overall deaths. (These reductions were from heart disease, cancer and other causes.)
The Mediterranean diet emphasizes whole grains, fish, nuts, legumes, olive oil, fruits, vegetables and potatoes. It is rich in antioxidants, phytochemicals, fiber and Omega-3 fatty acids. One purpose of the Mediterranean diet is to maintain a stable weight.
Nancy L. Fitness 