By Janis Jibrin, MS, RD
As you know, the traditional Mediterranean-style diet—the premise of The Pescetarian Plan—is super healthy. There are thousands of research studies showing health benefi
ts. (A lower risk of heart disease, depression, dementia, certain types of cancer, to name a few.)
If you’re eating along those lines, kudos! You’re doing a lot to protect your health. But what’s even better for you: the traditional Mediterranean lifestyle. That includes:
- The diet: Rich in fruit, vegetables, whole grains, nuts/seeds; extra-virgin olive oil is the primary fat. Moderate amounts of fish, dairy, eggs and alcohol. Very little red meat or added sugar.
- Conviviality: Eating together, celebrating together, doing things as a family, frequently visiting friends and relatives.
- Being physically active, including walking, gardening, farming and manual labor.
- Adequate rest—getting enough sleep, and spending time relaxing.
A newly published study tracking Spanish university graduates found that those who most closely adhered to a Mediterranean lifestyle (diet, level of physical activity and socializing) were only half as likely to be depressed compared to those whose lifestyles were the most counter to a Mediterranean way of living.
Here’s a way to roll all the Mediterranean lifestyle elements in one: Have a vegetable-rich pescetarian dinner with family or friends, take a walk afterwards, and go to bed at a reasonable hour!
