The Mediterranean lifestyle is widely recognized as lending itself to a longer, healthier life. But while this concept is supported by many scientific studies but few research has been conducted into its effects beyond the region.
A study carried out by La Universidad Autonoma de Madrid and Harvard’s school of Public Health, which was published recently showed that, it’s possible for non-Mediterranean people to adopt the Mediterranean lifestyle within their own cultural contexts, the lead author of the study, Mercedes Sotos Prieto said.
It’s good news for those who want to improve their health, but don’t necessarily have access to sun, sea, sand and siestas year-round. wherever you are in the world, there are ways to embrace Mediterranean mood, even in rainy England.
One of the easiest ways to improve your lifestyle is to spend time with your friends, family or other communities. Studies show that those who live in areas with higher levels of social cohesion, experience lower rates of mental health issues than those who don’t.
If you’ve been to a Mediterranean country, you will notice that most of the restaurants close in the afternoon to allow those running them to go for a rest. Research has shown that regular napping is connected to larger brain volume, which is in turn connected to a lower risk of dementia and other diseases.
While not all Mediterranean destinations have access to the ocean, those that do certainly obtain the benefit. Brain imaging research has also shown that our proximity to water is connected to release of happy-making hormones, making the ocean- even in the wind and rain- a great destination to boost mental and physical health.
Fresh fruit, vegetable, nuts, seeds, fish and whole grains: the foundations of a good Mediterranean diet, which is considered the best in the world for overall health and wellbeing. Not only it reduces the risk of type 2 diabetes, heart issues, obesity and high blood pressure, but it’s also a really delicious way to eat.
While the sun often shines in Mediterranean countries, in UK it is harder to come by. Due to this, many individuals are deficient in vitamin D, which is also known as sunshine vitamin. Most experts agree that it’s important to expose your skin- whether that’s just your face in winter or limbs in summer.
