Mediterranean Diet Lowers Risk of Heart Attack and Stroke

The Mediterranean diet continues to rank as the best diet for several years now by multiple doctors and health experts. One of the many benefits of the Mediterranean diet is the lowering of risk for heart attack and stroke. In this post, we’ll dive into what the Mediterranean diet is, the science that backs up this diet for heart health and stroke prevention, and how to begin a Mediterranean-style of eating

What is the Mediterranean Diet?

The Mediterranean diet is not necessarily a “diet” per se, but a style or way of eating foods that were traditionally eaten along the southern (Mediterranean) stretches of countries such as Spain, Italy, and Greece. The focus of the Mediterranean diet is on eating fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, lean proteins such as fish, and low saturated fats. Drinking red wine in moderation is an added bonus for those who enjoy a glass of vino.

Does the Mediterranean Diet Help Lower Risk of Heart Attack and Stroke?

Yes, the Mediterranean diet is supported in many studies as well by the American Heart Association as meeting the guidelines for a heart-healthy diet. The Mediterranean Diet is also touted as helping to reduce one’s risk for a stroke by reducing risk factors for other chronic health conditions such as obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. U.S. News ranked the Mediterranean diet as the number one best diet for diabetes, the best heart-healthy diet, and the best plant-based diet as well as the easiest diet to follow- which is great news!

Foods to Eat on the Mediterranean Diet

The goal in developing healthier eating habits is always to actually eat healthier food and the great news is that along with being one of the best diets for great health, it’s also one of the easiest to follow. The Mediterranean Diet is more about adopting a style of eating plant-based foods, whole grains, and lean proteins as well as low saturated fats. Eating foods using simple, cooking methods, rather than frying in vegetable oil. Think real food+ simplicity= greater health.

Foods to Eat More of

• Fish, seafood, tuna
• Healthy Fats- avocados, extra virgin olive oil, avocado oil
• Fruits
• Vegetables
• Nuts & Seeds
• Legumes, lentils, beans, peas
• Herbs & Spices– such as garlic, basil, rosemary, mint, oregano

Foods to Eat in Moderation

• Red wine
• Dairy such as yogurt, cheese, and eggs
• Poultry- chicken, duck, turkey

Foods to Eat Rarely

• Red Meats

Foods to Avoid

• Processed foods, including processed meats- often foods made in factories
• Refined grains- white flour foods
• Refined oils- soybean, canola
• Fast food
• Processed sweets, foods with added sugars, including diet sodas
• Butter and vegetable oils

You may be interested in: The 5 Best Healthy Recipe Apps, 15 Foods to Lower High Cholesterol, 10 Foods to Lower Blood Pressure

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