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London, Dec 3: A study published in the British Medical Journal suggestedthat those who consume a Mediterranean diet can lead a longer, healthier life. According to the study, a Mediterranean diet combines the goodness of fruits, vegetables, nuts, legumes and olive oil with a little wine -- all these foods have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that can reverse the process of aging by slowing down the shortening of telomeres, which is associated reduced life expectancy and a greater risk of age-related diseases.
The study findings are based on data obtained from 4,676 healthy middle-aged women. The study linked Mediterranean diet and its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory effect to slow aging. However, none of the individual dietary components was associated with telomere length. (Read: 6 reasons a Mediterranean diet is great for your health)
The diet has a host of health benefits. Here are health benefits of individual constituents of a Mediterranean diet :
Nuts, beans and legumes: These are good sources of healthy fats, legumes and fibre. Nuts and seeds common to the traditional diet include almonds, chickpeas, cashews, hazelnuts, sesame seeds and walnuts.
Dairy products: Including dairy in fermented forms like curds, yogurt and cheese is a traditional practice in Mediterranean cooking. The calcium in these dairy products is important for bone and heart health.
Mediterranean diet lowers the risk of death and keeps you away from chronic diseases from heart conditions. It also offers protection against Alzheimer's, cancer and diabetes, and Gaynor Bussell, a dietitian and public health nutritionist, said the research showed that there were no 'superfoods' and maybe not even foods that were good or bad. (Read: The Mediterranean diet dietician s tips to start with this healthy plan)
Source: ANI
Photo Source: Getty images
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