Scientists from the Autonomous University of Madrid have discovered that the Mediterranean diet can be more beneficial when combined with a Mediterranean lifestyle. The work was reported at the conference american heart association.
A team of researchers examined what would happen if middle-aged and older British adults added not only the Mediterranean diet to their lives, but also Mediterranean social habits and physical activity. In total, more than 110,000 Brits aged 40 to 75 took part in the study.
A 25-point MEDLIFE index was used to assess their adherence to a Mediterranean lifestyle. A question block on eating habits that allow salt, fruit, vegetables, and whole grains. Another section took into account whether people ate with family and friends, did physical activity with others (such as walking together), and how often they saw loved ones.
On average, each participant was followed for more than nine years. The analysis showed that the better a person adhered to a Mediterranean lifestyle, the lower their risk of dying from cancer, cardiovascular disease or any other cause. On average, the risk was reduced by 28-29%.
Previous studies have shown that social isolation can increase the risk of developing or dying from a heart attack or stroke. The findings highlight the need for clinicians and scientists to pay attention to aspects of lifestyle beyond physical activity and diet.