What exactly is the Mediterranean diet? When thinking of what Mediterranean people eat things that come to mind are gyros, pasta, pizza and hummus. But the Mediterranean diet is actually 
quite the opposite. This diet is rich in oils, fresh caught fish and vibrant vegetables. Mediterranean’s eat mostly fruits and vegetables, seafood fresh from the sea, nuts and healthy fats. Not the typical food you get when you order “Mediterranean” take out.
I don’t know about you, but I’ve seen first hand the benefits of the Mediterranean diet. I traveled to Greece last summer and was in awe of the way that people look. Their slender figures, shiny hair and glowing skin is eye catching. Clearly, this way of eating and living is healthy for your outside as well as your inside. Today we’re sharing 5 benefits of following a Mediterranean Diet.
It’s heart healthy
Olive oil is the key here. Studies have shown that eating foods cooked in high quality olive oil can significantly lower ones blood pressure. Also foods rich in omega-3’s have been found to increase inflammation which prevents arteries from clogging and helps to reduce the risk of strokes.
Lowers your risk of cancer
The Mediterranean diet avoids processed foods and refined sugar. Majority of the food they eat is locally sourced and void of all of the junk that’s found in our food here in America. This plays a major factor in reducing your cancer risk. But these diets are also rich in fruits and vegetables, which means they’re rich in fiber. We all know that diets high in fiber can cut your risk of certain cancers, particularly colon cancer.
Shampoo commercial shine
Do you want locks that shine like those in hair commercials? Eat your healthy fats! Again, this goes back to all of that olive oil. It helps to hydrate your hair from within. Giving it lasting shine!
Clear, glowing skin
Again, olive oil! This stuff is so powerful! It has the same effect on your skin as it does on your hair. Many Mediterranean women even use olive oil on their face as a moisturizer! But another, even more important benefit for your skin, is protection from ultraviolet rays. The sun is always blazing on the island of Ibiza. And even though these people have olive toned skin it doesn’t mean they’re exempt from burning from the suns rays. But the foods they eat helps to protect them from burns, as well as Melanoma. Omega 3’s found in fish build up the skins elasticity. Also leafy greens are rich in antioxidants that slow cell growth, thus making it difficult for cancer to thrive.
Little around the middle
A Mediterranean diet helps to keep your waistline tight. Once again this goes back to diets high in healthy fats, lean proteins and vegetables. When you eat foods that are nutrient dense it won’t leave you hungry, you will be satisfied up until your next meal. Also, diets low in sugar prevent blood glucose levels from dipping causing insulin spikes.
Living longer, feeling good and looking amazing? I don’t know about you, but I’m in! Clearly, there are many benefits to following a Mediterranean diet.
To learn more about women’s health check out the Women’s Mind Body Wellness Summit. It contains 6 interviews by top female health professionals plus two workout videos and 3 bonus videos on mind-body wellness with MyHealthSpin Founder Lori-Ann Rickard.